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Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree

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•       Resources       Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree

As of 2015, approximately 25.4 million Americans held advanced degrees , with more citizens joining these ranks each year. As studies continue to show the career advancement and salary benefits of completing a master's degree, more and more students elect to pursue advanced educations. When considering their options, many question whether to enroll in a master's requiring a thesis or not. The following guide examines some of the reasons degree seekers may want to write a thesis while also highlighting why they might not. Students on the fence about this important decision can find expert advice, actionable tips, and relevant guidance to help them make an informed choice in the guide that follows.

Understanding the Master's Thesis

What is the difference between a thesis & non-thesis master's program, the decision not to do a thesis.

As students research various master's programs in their chosen discipline, it's common to find that many degrees require a thesis – especially if they want to enter a research-heavy field. While this word gets thrown around a lot in academia, some learners may want more information regarding what it entails in order to make an informed decision.

What is a Master's Thesis?

The master's thesis is an original piece of scholarship allowing the student to dig into a topic and produce an expanded document that demonstrates how their knowledge has grown throughout the degree program. These documents require significant independent research of primary and secondary sources and, depending on the subject, may require interviews and/or surveys to support the overarching argument.

Individual schools and departments dictate the length of these documents, but they typically range between 60 and 100 pages – or approximately 20,000 to 40,000 words. While tackling a document of such heft may seem overwhelming at first, learners need not fret. Each master's candidate receives a faculty advisor early in their tenure to provide support, feedback, and guidance throughout the process. Because the final thesis is expected to be of a publishable quality, learners seeking the highest marks typically send their supervisor excerpts of the document as they write to ensure they are on the right track.

When picking a thesis topic, no magical formula exists. Students should consider their interests and read extensively on that topic to get a better sense of existing scholarship. They should also speak to other academics working in that sphere to familiarize themselves with ongoing projects. Only after they feel reasonably well-read should they begin looking for uncovered angles or interesting ways of using emerging methodologies to bring new light to the topic.

When considering formatting, degree seekers should check with their specific schools and departments, as they may have unique requirements. To get a general understanding of what to expect, learners can review Simon Fraser University's guidelines on thesis formatting. After completing the thesis, some programs require an oral defense before a committee while others read the document and provide a grade. Check with your prospective schools to get a better sense of procedure.

Format & Components of a Master's Thesis

While this guide attempts to provide helpful and actionable information about the process of deciding whether to follow a thesis or non-thesis track in a master's program, readers should remember that specific components and requirements of a thesis vary according to discipline, university, and department. That being said, some commonalities exist across all these – especially when it comes to what students must include in their final drafts.

As the first section a reader encounters after moving through the table of contents and other anterior text, the introductory allows the writer to firmly establish what they want to accomplish. Sometimes also called the "research question" section, the introductory must clearly state the goals of the paper and the overarching hypothesis guiding the argument. This should be written in a professional yet accessible tone that allows individuals without specializations in the field to understand the text.

This section allows learners to demonstrate their deep knowledge of the field by providing context to existing texts within their chosen discipline Learners review the main bodies of work, highlighting any issues they find within each. Constructive criticism often centers around shortcomings, blind spots, or outdated hypotheses.

Students use this section to explain how they went about their work. While scientists may point to a specific method used to reach conclusions, historians may reference the use of an emerging framework for understanding history to bring new light to a topic. The point of this section is to demonstrate the thought processes that led to your findings.

This section allows for learners to show what they learned during the research process in a non-biased way. Students should simply state what information they gathered by utilizing a specific framework or methodology and arrange those findings, without interpretation, in an easy-to-read fashion.

After providing readers with all the necessary information, the discussion section exists for candidates to interpret the raw data and demonstrate how their research led to a new understanding or contributed a unique perspective to the field. This section should directly connect to the introduction by reinforcing the hypothesis and showing how you answered the questions posed.

Even though the previous sections give prospective degree seekers a better sense of what to expect if they decide to write a thesis during their master's program, they don't necessarily help learners decide whether to pursue a thesis or non-thesis track. The following section highlights some of the reasons students frequently choose to complete a thesis or bypass the process altogether by providing a pros and cons list.

Why a Thesis Program

• Especially when entering a research-heavy discipline, completing a thesis shows prospective schools and employers that you possess the skills needed for researching and writing long-form reports.
• Students hoping to pursue a Ph.D. stand in better stead with admissions panels if they wrote a thesis during a master's program.
• Individuals hoping to enter a field that values syntax and grammar often better their writing skills by completing a thesis.
• Students who write a thesis can submit the final product to various academic journals, increasing their chances of getting published.
• Theses expand students' understanding of what they're capable of, deepen their ability to carry out an argument, and develop their skills in making connections between ideas.

Why a Non-thesis Program

• Because they don't require a significant written product, non-thesis master's tend to take less time to complete.
• Often mirrors a bachelor's program in terms of structure, allowing learners to complete classes and take exams without a great deal of research or writing.
• Students who excel in project-based assignments can continue building skills in this arena rather than focusing on skills they don't plan to use (e.g. research)
• Provides learners the opportunity to work more closely and more frequently with faculty on real-world projects since they don't spend hundreds of hours researching/writing.
• Allows learners to take more classes and gain hands-on skills to fill the time they would have spent researching and writing a thesis.

How to Choose a Master's Program: FAQs

Within some academic disciplines and professional fields, research and writing plays a key role in work done on a daily basis. Because of this, master's programs in these fields require learners to complete theses to compete against peers and be seen as competent in their work. Other disciplines, conversely, rely on other tools to accomplish work and progress ideas – making theses less important.

Yes. Master's programs focused more on application than research typically don't require a thesis – although they may still give students the option. Examples of common non-thesis master's programs include nursing, business, and education.

Even though non-thesis students won't be writing a 100-page paper, that doesn't mean they avoid completing a significant project. In place of a thesis, most applied master's programs require students to take part in at least one internship or complete a culminating project. These projects typically ask learners to take what they learned throughout coursework and create an expansive final project – examples include case studies, creative works, or portfolios.

While students who followed a non-thesis path routinely receive acceptance to Ph.D. programs, those with theses often find the process easier. Even if a learner pursues a Ph.D. in a discipline that isn't research-heavy, admissions panels still want to get a sense of your academic interests and ability to engage in independent, nuanced thought. Students with theses can provide solid proof of these skills, while those without may struggle to demonstrate preparedness as thoroughly.

The answer to this question depends on many factors, but typically it is okay not to do a thesis if you plan to enter a field that doesn't depend heavily on research or writing, or if you don't plan to complete a Ph.D.

Students wanting to work in academic, research, or writing should always opt for the thesis track. They should also follow this path if they have any doctoral degree aspirations.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to complete a thesis rests with the individual student. Figuring out how to proceed on this front requires lots of careful consideration, and learners should ensure they consider various aspects before coming to a final decision. The following section helps students consider how they should and should not come to a conclusion.

Dos and Don'ts of Choosing a Thesis or Non-thesis Program

• Consider the longevity of your decision: will you feel the same in 5-10 years or are you making a decision based on current desires?
• Talk to others who with experience in this area. Ask them questions about their decision-making process and if they regret their choice.
• Research potential thesis topics before starting a program. Going in with a game plan can help you feel more confident and settled about the process than if you're scrambling for a topic while in school.
• Reach out to prospective schools to speak with faculty and/or current students following both tracks. This will provide knowledge specific to the school while also expanding your network if you choose to attend there.
• Research Ph.D. entrance requirements to ascertain if the majority expect learners to possess a thesis when applying. This will give you a sense of whether you may experience issues later on if you do not complete one.
• Decide not to complete a thesis simply because you have never taken on such a task and feel overwhelmed or fearful that you will fail.
• Complete a thesis simply because you think it will look good on your resume. Theses require intense devotion over an extended amount of time; learners who complete them without conviction often find the process miserable.
• Forget to research alternatives to writing a thesis. Just because you don't complete a research paper doesn't mean a non-thesis track lacks rigor or challenging coursework.
• Forget to read examples of theses by previous students. If you feel overwhelmed by the task, reading work other people have done can often make the task at hand feel less scary.
• Let yourself off easy by taking the non-thesis path. If you find you have extra time in the program, talk to your advisor about taking more classes, develop meaningful projects for yourself, or see about presenting at an academic conference.

From the Expert

Sudiksha Joshi, Ph.D. is a learning advocate. Her mission is to empower our youth to think bigger, bolder thoughts and forge a career path that will change the world. She taps into her natural curiosity and ability to identify strengths to help students and those in transition find their path from feeling lost in the traditional ways of achieving success to charting their own path. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Huffington Post, Thrive Global, Medium and LinkedIn.

Why might a student decide to follow a thesis track? Why might they follow a non-thesis track?

A student might decide to take a thesis track if she/he wants to pursue a Ph.D. Also, if the students want to focus on careers where research and writing have a strong focus, the students opt for the thesis option. Research assistantships at the graduate level are also more often available to students who opt for the thesis option.

A student who might feel that writing is not one of their strengths might choose to go the non-thesis track. Likewise, a student who has other work commitments may find a non-thesis option more convenient.

Do you have any tips for deciding on a program?

I chose a thesis option because being able to conduct independent research was a big reason to go to graduate school. Also, showing the ability that I could do research was what afforded me research assistantships which meant that my tuition was paid for and I got a stipend that paid for expenses while I was in graduate school. This also allowed me the opportunity to work closely with the faculty mentor that provided me with the support and the accountability I wanted.

I would not recommend taking a non-thesis option if all the degree requires is for you to take courses. You have little to show in terms of your learning other than your grades unless you are already working on something on the side that does that for you and all you need is a certificate.

Opt for a non-thesis option if you can still work closely with a professor or on a project and if you'd rather be involved in multiple projects rather than focus on a single project. If you already have a good (informed) reason for choosing one over the other, go for it.

What's the most important thing to consider when choosing a program?

The most important thing to consider when choosing a program is getting excited about the projects that at least one of the faculty members are involved in. Do some research and see why you are excited about a particular work that at least one of the faculty members have been involved in.

Who should students talk to when considering options?

Students should talk to other students and also reach out directly to the graduate coordinator and even individual faculty members. This means that students should have done prior homework and have some good questions ready. Asking good questions will get you at least halfway through to make the right decision.

• October 15, 2023
• Academic Advice

Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Master’s Programs: Which is Right for You?

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Continuing your educational journey within your chosen field is an experience that fosters personal and professional growth. The next milestone in your academic path often involves pursuing a Master’s degree , with options ranging from thesis-based programs to non-thesis alternatives.  Deciding between these two paths is significant as it shapes your academic and career paths.

But how can you decide which is right for you before getting decision fatigue?

Let’s explore the difference between thesis vs. non-thesis Master’s programs, their unique characteristics, and reasons for choosing one or the other. 

Do You Have to Write a Thesis for Your Master’s Program?

Whether you have to write a thesis for your Master’s program depends on the specific requirements of the program you’re enrolled in. It’s important to note that while not all Master’s programs require writing a thesis, a significant number of them do.

What is a Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Master’s Program?

A thesis Master’s program involves completing a large research project spanning over several semesters. Students are expected to conduct original research on a specific topic under a faculty advisor’s guidance, culminating in a thesis likely to be published. Completing and defending the thesis is a crucial part of the degree requirement.

A non-thesis Master’s program doesn’t involve a specific research focus but rather a more coursework and practical experience, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge applicable to their field of study. After completing their program’s core course requirements, students can choose any of the electives to meet their degree requirements. Depending on the institution, you may be required to do a Master’s Degree Capstone project, including reviewing previous courses, a comprehensive exam, or a summary project. 

Why Choose a Thesis Master’s Program?

Thesis Master’s programs offer several advantages, be that contributing to new findings in your field, close collaboration with professors and researchers, and standing out to potential employers with your abilities to work independently and analyze complex issues. However, the primary advantages are:

Research Experience

Thesis programs allow you to conduct extensive research on a specific topic that piques your interest.  This way, you’ll gain expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. 

Academic Growth 

Writing a thesis helps sharpen your critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills. It also challenges you to think independently, analyze a large amount of data, and draw meaningful conclusions. Furthermore, it prepares you for doctoral studies, familiarizing you with the rigor of independent research and equips you with the necessary skills to succeed.

Why Choose a Non-Thesis Master’s Program?

Non-thesis master’s programs also come with numerous advantages for students, including flexibility in scheduling, a range of career opportunities, shorter competition time, etc. Here are the main advantages: 

Non-thesis programs prioritize coursework, fostering the development of practical skills and their real-world application. This approach enables you to actively engage in hands-on learning experiences highly sought after in today’s job market. Critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities are some of those skills.

Suitability for Professionals

Another advantage to pursuing a non-thesis Master’s program is that it doesn’t take as much time as the thesis Master’s programs. That way you can enter the workforce faster. It’s also well-suited for professionals already established in their field who are seeking to further their education and advance in their careers. 

The Academic and Career Outcomes of Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Master’s Programs

The academic outcomes for the thesis Master’s program graduates involve preparation for Ph.D. programs , opening doors to advanced research and specialized roles in research institutions. This provides solid research skills and helps them publish their work. Common career paths for graduates include research positions in academia, government, or private sectors. Some also pursue teaching careers in colleges and universities. Degree programs that usually require a thesis include sciences, social sciences, engineering, and humanities (history, philosophy, and language studies).

Non-thesis Master’s program graduates typically achieve academic outcomes focused on mastering practical, directly applicable skills within their field. While these programs are more career-oriented, graduates can still pursue a Ph.D. They can benefit from diverse career options in different settings and find employment in managerial, administrative, or specialized roles in their field. Degree programs that don’t usually require a thesis are business, education, healthcare administration, IT management, etc.

Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Master’s Programs, That is the Question 

With their abundance of advantages, choosing between the two can be pretty tricky. So, let’s compare thesis vs. non-thesis Master’s programs and help you make an informed decision. 

Personal and Career Goals

A thesis Master’s program is ideal if you’re interested in furthering in academia and want to pursue a Ph.D ., as these programs can provide the necessary tools to enhance your credentials for research-based careers. Meanwhile, a non-thesis Master’s program will suit you better if you’re seeking to gain practical skills to integrate into the industry immediately, as they can include practical projects or internships according to industry demands. 

Time and Financial Considerations

Thesis Master’s programs can extend the duration of your studies, as researching, writing, and defending the thesis can take several semesters to complete and can cause financial strain due to additional costs like lab fees and materials. In contrast, non-thesis ones can help you enter the job market promptly as they are shorter, allowing you to save time and money.

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Field of Study and Program Requirements

When deciding between a thesis and a non-thesis Master’s program, a crucial element to take into account is the field of study and the program’s specific requirements. A thesis Master’s program is better suited for those pursuing research-oriented fields, while a non-thesis program is a more fitting choice for individuals with a strong focus on their career. Furthermore, program requirements for thesis programs require substantial research to culminate in a thesis, whereas non-thesis ones require capstone projects, internships, or comprehensive exams. 

Switching from a Non-Thesis to a Thesis Master’s Program, or Vice Versa

Switching from a non-thesis to a thesis Master’s program, or vice versa, is possible in many institutions, although the process and requirements may vary. Switching from a non-thesis to a thesis program generally requires getting approval from the academic advisor or department, completing additional research methodology classes, finding a thesis advisor, and applying to the thesis program. 

Switching from a thesis to a non-thesis Master’s program requires having at least a 3.0 GPA, getting approval from the academic advisor, transferring credits of research methodology classes, and formally applying to the thesis program.

Choosing between a thesis and a non-thesis Master’s program ultimately depends on your career goals, research interests, and personal preferences. Thesis programs provide a robust foundation for research-oriented careers and advanced studies, while non-thesis programs offer practical skills tailored for immediate industry integration. Regardless of your choice, both paths offer unique advantages, ensuring you gain the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in your chosen field. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What is the difference between a thesis vs. non-thesis master’s program.

The key difference between a thesis and a non-thesis Master’s program is that thesis Master’s programs require original research and completion of a thesis, whereas non-thesis ones focus on coursework and practical experiences. 

Do I have to write a thesis for a Master’s program?

If you’re pursuing a research-oriented Master’s degree in sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, etc., you’ll probably have to write a thesis. Whereas, if you’re pursuing a Master’s degree in education, business healthcare administration, or IT management, you’re more likely not to have to complete a thesis. 

Is a thesis required for all Master’s degree programs?

Although a thesis isn’t required for all master’s degree programs, many programs require one.

What should I consider when deciding between a thesis and non-thesis program?

There are several factors to consider when choosing between a thesis and a non-thesis Master’s program, including your career goals, interest in research, duration of studies, personal strengths and preferences, cost, and program requirements.

Are there any financial and duration differences between thesis and non-thesis Master’s programs?

There can be financial and duration differences between thesis and non-thesis Master’s programs. Thesis programs can be more expensive as you’ll have to spend additional resources on materials, lab fees, and data collection. In contrast, the main cost for non-thesis programs is tuition fees, which can be slightly lower. Furthermore, thesis programs require additional time to conduct research, write, and defend the thesis. In contrast, non-thesis programs allow students to earn the degree in a shorter period. 

Why should I choose a thesis Master’s program?

You should choose a thesis Master’s program if you’re interested in a research-heavy discipline and want to showcase your knowledge and expertise in an evidence-based, thorough thesis. 

Why should I choose a non-thesis Master’s program?

You should choose a non-thesis Master’s program if you want to enter the workforce earlier, don’t want to spend several semesters collecting data, and want to focus more on application than research.

Can non-thesis Master’s graduates still pursue doctoral studies later?

Yes, non-thesis Master’s graduates can still get accepted into a doctoral program. However, thesis Master’s graduates can go through the process more efficiently, as admissions panels want to gain insight into your academic interests and ability to engage in nuanced thought.

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Pursuing a non-thesis master’s degree: Is it worth it?

When navigating the world of master’s programs, the plethora of choices can be bewildering. For instance, prospective candidates often grapple with questions regarding the nature and value of non-thesis master’s degrees. To demystify these programs and provide clarity, delve into this guide to gain insights into commonly asked questions about non-thesis master’s degrees and equip yourself with the knowledge needed to determine whether such a program aligns with your academic and career goals.

What is a non-thesis master’s degree?

These programs are often more focused on coursework, examinations, projects, or practical experience.

Instead of conducting original research and writing a thesis, students in non-thesis master’s programs primarily take courses and complete a set number of credits or specific coursework.

A non-thesis master’s degree can be definitely worth it is you are aware of the differences and decide that this option best fits to your ambitions, learning style and future career prospects.

A non-thesis master’s degree can undoubtedly be worth it, provided that you are well-informed about the distinctions between program types and have carefully concluded that this option aligns with your aspirations, preferred learning approach, and the potential pathways it offers for your future career.

The difference between non-thesis and thesis master’s degrees

It’s crucial to understand that a thesis-based master’s degree isn’t exclusively tailored for those aspiring to enter academia or pursue a Ph.D. In fact, a significant majority of individuals pursuing a master’s program that includes a thesis ultimately find their paths in various professional fields.

However, it’s important to note that this does not imply that non-thesis master’s degrees are inherently inferior or misguided choices. The decision to pursue a non-thesis program should be a well-considered one, grounded in a thorough assessment of your personal motivations and objectives.

How common are non-thesis master’s degree?

Non-thesis master’s programs are designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge that can be immediately applied in a professional context, as opposed to focusing on original research. In several European countries, these programs may be referred to as “professional” or “applied” master’s degrees, emphasizing practical training and real-world experience.

In general, non-thesis master’s degrees are relatively less prevalent, and their particular structure and prerequisites exhibit variations not only between countries but also among different universities.

The length of a thesis vs. non-thesis master’s degree

It is erroneous to assume that a non-thesis master’s degree requires less time to complete than a master’s program with a thesis component.

Reasons to pursue a non-thesis master’s degree

Pursuing a non-thesis master’s degree can offer unique advantages for individuals with diverse career goals and learning preferences:

How to decide whether a non-thesis master’s degree is right for you

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What to Think About When Choosing Between a Thesis & Non-Thesis Master’s Degree

When choosing a graduate program, you’ll find that you may have to decide between pursuing either a thesis or non-thesis master’s degree. Although employers do not consider which you choose during the hiring process, your decision can significantly impact the skills you acquire in your academic career. 

What Is the difference?

A non-thesis master’s degree focuses on coursework . Students are immersed into projects and learning environments that help strengthen their knowledge in their field. Similar to undergraduate programs, a non-thesis program is structured around assignments, group and individual projects, and exams. Research may be included somewhere in the program, but it is primarily focused on helping students achieve skills that will help them become more successful in their careers. This degree path typically has more courses than a non-thesis degree but can be completed in a shorter amount of time.

A thesis master’s degree is more research intensive. Students who aim to work on a thesis can expect to do more reading and writing as they specialize their knowledge. The coursework is generally centered around preparation for a final thesis, building their skills in research, data collection, analysis, and writing. Professors act more as guides and advisors who help students clarify their goals and aid in their research projects and thesis development. Master’s theses are a great primer for anyone looking to pursue a Ph.D., as research skills will be crucial in the development of a dissertation.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong degree path. Both degrees offer a quality education that can help you excel. One thing to consider when deliberating is why you’re pursuing your graduate degree. If you’re going back to college to help you change fields or get to that next level of your career, a non-thesis master’s degree can help you get there. If you want to dive into a career in research and development or pursue a Ph.D., a thesis master’s degree may be more worthwhile. 

Another thing to consider is your learning style. What methods of learning do you enjoy more? If you thrive in group projects and assignments, a non-thesis degree may be more efficient in helping you retain information. For those of you independent thinkers who love to dive deeply into subjects, you might relish in the idea of the research needed in the production of a thesis. Think about what type of academic environment will motivate you to earn your degree. 

Here are 7 questions that you can ask yourself to help you decide:

• What are my career goals?
• Where do I see myself in 5 to 10 years?
• What motivated me to pursue a master’s degree in the first place?
• What are my plans after graduation?
• Do I want to learn in a classroom setting, or do I want to be more independent?
• Am I interested in learning about research?
• How much writing do I want in my program?

If you have any questions or want to learn more about what each program has to offer, reach out to your school’s faculty and admissions officers. After all, the most important thing about a program isn’t the name of the degree, but what you gain from it.

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M.A. (non-thesis) Introduction

The M.A. degree is intended to provide students with a solid background in core areas of linguistic research, exposure to the various subfields constituting the discipline as a whole, and greater depth in two areas of interest. It will prepare students to continue in Ph.D. programs in Linguistics (at UGA or elsewhere) or for employment in fields where a master’s degree in Linguistics is one of the desired qualifications. Students may choose either a thesis or non-thesis option for the M.A.

Students must fulfill all the requirements of the Graduate School for the M.A. degree, including the residence requirement and time limits.

see the Graduate Bulletin for details

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Master of arts in history.

The Department of History offers a Master of Arts (MA). Students may earn a Master of Arts in any field of our academic research clusters, which are featured on the department’s website along with the faculty in these specialties.

There are three options for earning a MA in the History Department: a multi-chapter thesis option, an article thesis option, or a non-thesis option. 

Thesis Options

At the end of their formal coursework, students in the thesis track will produce an MA thesis. Working with their advisor, students will select one of two MA Thesis options: 1) Multi-Chapter Thesis Option, generally 100 pages in length. The research will be based in primary source material. The expectation for successfully defending is that the committee judges the thesis to have an original narrative and make an original contribution to historical scholarship. 2) Article Thesis Option. Students who select this option will work with their primary advisor to choose a peer-reviewed publishing venue and will write an article-length thesis appropriate for publication in the selected venue. The research will be based in primary source material and make an original contribution to the historical scholarship. The expectation for successfully defending an article thesis is that the committee judges that the thesis is ready for submission to the selected venue.

Non-Thesis Option

The MA non-thesis option requires a minimum of 36 hours of coursework. A minimum of 21 hours must be taken within the department with at least 9 more hours taken in a supporting field. An MA non-thesis student must have more than one area of specialization, but both may be within History.  However, the MA non-thesis student may not use any  HIST 691  hours as part of the degree plan. The student receives the MA degree upon completion of the required coursework and passing comprehensive written and oral examinations.

Program Requirements

• Student's Advisory Committee

Degree Plan

Credit requirement, transfer of credit, limitations on the use of transfer, extension and certain other courses, thesis proposal, final examination/thesis defense, final examination grading, student’s advisory committee.

After receiving admission to graduate studies and enrolling for coursework, the student will consult with the head of his or her major or administrative department concerning appointment of the chair of his or her advisory committee. The student’s advisory committee for the master’s degree will consist of no fewer than three members of the graduate faculty ,  representative of the student’s fields of study and research. The chair, or one of the co-chairs, of the advisory committee must be from the student’s department, and  at least one or more of the members must have an appointment to a department other than the student’s major department .

The chair, in consultation with the student, will select the remainder of the advisory committee. The student will interview each prospective committee member to determine whether he or she is willing to serve. Only graduate faculty members located on Texas A&M University campuses may serve as chair of a student’s advisory committee. Other graduate faculty members located off-campus may serve as a member or co-chair (but not chair), with a member as the chair. The chair of the committee, who usually has immediate supervision of the student’s research and thesis, has the responsibility for calling required meetings of the committee and for calling meetings at any other time considered desirable.

If the chair of a student’s advisory committee voluntarily leaves the University and the student is near completion of the degree and wants the chair to continue to serve in this role, the student is responsible for securing a current member of the University Graduate Faculty, from the student’s academic program and located near the Texas A&M University campus site, to serve as the co-chair of the committee. The Department Head or Chair of Intercollegiate faculty may request in writing to the Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate and Professional School that a faculty member who is on an approved leave of absence or has voluntarily separated from the university, be allowed to continue to serve in the role of chair of a student’s advisory committee without a co-chair for us to one year. The students should be near completion of the degree. Extensions beyond the one year period can be granted with additional approval of the Dean.

If the chair of the student’s advisory committee is unavailable for an extended time in any academic period during which the student is involved in activities relating to an internship, thesis or professional paper and is registered for courses such as 684, 691, 692 or 693, the student may request, in writing, that the department head appoint an alternate advisory committee chair during the interim period.

The duties of the committee include responsibility for the proposed degree plan, the research proposal, the thesis and the final examination. In addition, the committee, as a group and as individual members, is responsible for counseling the student on academic matters, and, in the case of academic deficiency, initiating recommendations to the Graduate and Professional School.

The committee members’ approval on the degree plan indicate their willingness to accept the responsibility for guiding and directing the entire academic program of the student and for initiating all academic actions concerning the student. Although individual committee members may be replaced by petition for valid reasons, a committee cannot resign  en masse .

The student’s advisory committee, in consultation with the student, will develop the proposed degree plan and it must include study in more than one area of specialization, but these areas may be contained within the course offerings of a single department. The degree plan must be completed and filed with the Graduate and Professional School prior to the deadline imposed by the student’s college, and no later than 90 days prior to the date of the final oral examination or thesis defense.

This proposed degree plan should be submitted through the online Document Processing Submission System located on the website  https://ogsdpss.tamu.edu .

A student submitting a proposed degree plan for a Master of Arts degree should designate on the official degree plan form the program option desired by checking “thesis option” or “non-thesis option.”

Additional coursework may be added to the approved degree plan by petition if it is deemed necessary by the advisory committee to correct deficiencies in the student’s academic preparation. No changes to the degree plan can be made once the student’s Request for Final Examination or Request for Final Examination Exemption is approved by the Graduate and Professional School.

A minimum of 30 semester credit hours of approved courses and research is required for the thesis option Master of Arts degree. A minimum of 36 semester credit hours of approved courses is required for the non-thesis option Master of Arts degree.

A student who has earned 12 hours of graduate credit in residence at Texas A&M University may be authorized to transfer courses in excess of the limits prescribed above upon the advice of the advisory committee and with the approval of the Graduate and Professional School. Courses taken in residence at an accredited U.S. institution or approved international institution with a final grade of B or greater might be considered for transfer credit if, at the time the courses were completed, the courses would be accepted for credit toward a similar degree for a student in degree-seeking status at the host institution. Otherwise, the limitations stated in the preceding section apply. Coursework in which no formal grades are given or in which grades other than letter grades (A or B) are earned (for example, CR, P, S, U, H, etc.) is not accepted for transfer credit. Courses appearing on the degree plan with grades of D, F or U may not be absolved by transfer work. Credit for thesis research or the equivalent is not transferable. Credit for coursework submitted for transfer from any college or university must be shown in semester credit hours or equated to semester credit hours. An official transcript from the university at which the transfer coursework was taken must be sent directly to the Office of Admissions.

Courses used toward a degree at another institution may not be applied for graduate credit. If the course to be transferred was taken prior to the conferral of a degree at the transfer institution, a letter from the registrar at that institution stating that the course was not applied for credit toward the degree must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School.

Grades for courses completed at other institutions are not included in computing the GPA.

Some departments may have more restrictive requirements for transfer work. If otherwise acceptable, certain courses may be used toward meeting credit-hour requirements for the master’s degree under the following limitations:

• Graduate and/or upper-level undergraduate courses, taken in residence at an accredited U.S. institution or approved international institution, with a final grade of B or greater, will be considered for transfer credit if, at the time the courses were completed, the student was in degree-seeking status at Texas A&M University, or the student was in degree-seeking status at the institution at which the courses were taken; and if the courses would be accepted for credit toward a similar degree for a student in degree-seeking status at the host institution.
• Courses previously used for another degree are not acceptable for degree plan credit.
• The maximum number of credit hours taken in post-baccalaureate non-degree (G6) classification at Texas A&M University which may be considered for application to the degree plan is 12.
• A zero credit 684 or 685 course is only allowed for non-thesis option master's students. A zero credit 681 course can be used for either thesis or non-thesis option master’s students. Other courses, including 691 research hours, are not eligible for zero credit.
• Not more than 6 hours in combination of 691 (Research) or 684 (Professional Internship) may be used. Under normal circumstances, non-thesis masters students may not use 691 hours on their degree plan. However, for non-thesis masters students who are using 691 hours on the degree plan, see the Non-Thesis Option section on the Program Requirements page in the graduate catalog for the degree they are pursuing.
• Not more than 8 hours of 685 (Directed Studies) may be used.
• Not more than 3 hours of 690 (Theory of Research) may be used.
• Not more than 3 hours of 695 (Frontiers in Research) may be used.
• A maximum of 2 hours of 681 (Seminar).
• A maximum of 9 hours of advanced undergraduate courses (300- or 400-level).
• For graduate courses of three weeks’ duration or less, taken at other institutions, up to 1 hour of credit may be obtained for each five-day week of coursework. Each week of coursework must include at least 15 contact hours.
• No credit hours of 684 (Professional Internship) may be used for the degree of Master of Arts non-thesis option with the exception of a student pursuing the Master of Arts in Philosophy, non-thesis option, who may use up to 6 hours of 684 (Professional Internship).
• Continuing education courses may not be used for graduate credit.
• Extension courses are not acceptable for credit.

For non-distance degree programs, no more than 50 percent of the non-research coursework required for the program may be completed through distance education courses.

To receive a graduate degree from Texas A&M University, students must earn one-third or more of the credits through the institution’s own direct instruction. This limitation also applies to joint degree programs.  

Exceptions will be permitted only in unusual cases and when petitioned by the student’s advisory committee and approved by the Graduate and Professional School.

Thesis Option

An acceptable thesis is required for the Master of Arts degree for a student who selects the thesis option program. The finished work must reflect a comprehensive understanding of the pertinent literature and express in clear English, the problem(s) for study, the method, significance and results of the student’s original research. Thesis formatting must be acceptable to the Graduate and Professional School as outlined in the Guidelines for Theses, Dissertations, and Records of Study.

After successful defense (or exemption) and approval by the student’s advisory committee and the head of the student’s major department (or chair of intercollegiate faculty, if appropriate), the student must submit the thesis in electronic format as a single PDF file to https://etd.tamu.edu/ . Additionally, a thesis approval form with original signatures must be received by the Graduate and Professional School through the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS). Both the PDF file and the completed approval form must be received by the deadline.

Deadline dates for submitting the thesis are announced each semester or summer term in the “Graduate and Professional School Calendar” (see Time Limit statement). These dates also can be accessed via the  Graduate and Professional School  website.

Each student who submits a manuscript for review is assessed a one-time thesis/dissertation processing fee through Student Business Services for the thesis/dissertation services provided. After commencement, theses and dissertations are digitally stored and made available through the Texas A&M Libraries.

A thesis that is deemed unacceptable by the Graduate and Professional School because of excessive corrections will be returned to the student’s department head (or chair of the intercollegiate faculty, if applicable) . The manuscript must be resubmitted as a new document, and the entire review process must begin again. All original submittal deadlines must be met during the resubmittal process to graduate.

For the thesis option Master of Arts degree, the student must prepare a thesis proposal for approval by the advisory committee and the head of the major department. This proposal must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School at least 20 working days prior to the submission of the Request for the Final Examination.

Compliance issues must be addressed if a graduate student is performing research involving human subjects, animals, infectious biohazards and recombinant DNA. A student involved in these types of research should check with the Office of Research Compliance and Biosafety at (979) 458-1467 to address questions about all research compliance responsibilities. Additional information can also be obtained on the website http://rcb.tamu.edu .

A student must pass a final examination by dates announced each semester or summer term in the Graduate and Professional School Calendar .  To be eligible to take the final examination, a student’s GPA must be at least 3.000 for courses on the degree plan and for all courses completed at Texas A&M which are eligible to be applied to a graduate degree, and there must be no unabsolved grades of D, F or U for any course listed on the degree plan. To absolve a deficient grade, the student must repeat the course at Texas A&M University and achieve a grade of C or better. All coursework on the degree plan must have been completed with the exception of those hours for which the student is registered. For thesis-option students, an approved thesis proposal must be on file in the Graduate and Professional School according to published deadlines prior to the final examination or submission of the request for exemption from the final examination.

A request to schedule the final examination must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School via ARCS a minimum of 10 working days in advance of the scheduled date for the examination. The Graduate and Professional School must be notified in writing of any cancellations. A student may be given only one opportunity to repeat the final examination for the master’s degree and that must be within a time period that does not extend beyond the end of the next regular semester (Summer terms are excluded).

For thesis option students, the final examination covers the thesis and all work taken on the degree plan and at the option of the committee may be written or oral or both. The final examination may not be administered before the thesis is available to all members of the student’s advisory committee in substantially final form, and all members have had adequate time to review the document. The examination is conducted by the student’s advisory committee as finally constituted. A thesis option student must be registered at the University in the semester or summer term in which the final examination is taken. Persons other than members of the graduate faculty may, with mutual consent of the candidate and the major professor, attend final examinations for advanced degrees. Upon completion of the questioning of the candidate, all visitors must excuse themselves from the proceedings. A positive vote by all members of the graduate committee with at most one dissension is required to pass a student on his or her exam. A department, or interdisciplinary degree program, may have a stricter requirement provided there is consistency within all degree programs within a department or interdisciplinary degree program.

The student’s advisory committee will conduct this examination. The student’s department will promptly report the results of the Final Examination to the Graduate and Professional School via the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS) within 10 working days of completion of the final examination. If an approved committee member substitution (one only) has been made, their approval must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School via ARCS.

If the program requires the advisory committee to include at least one external member – with an appointment to a department other than the student’s major department – and the substitution is for the sole external member of the advisory committee, then the substitute must also be external to the student’s major department. In extenuating circumstances, with approval of the Graduate and Professional School, an exception to this requirement may be granted.

A thesis option candidate may petition to be exempt from the final examination provided the degree plan GPA is 3.500 or greater and he/she has the approval of the advisory committee, the head of the student’s major department, or intercollegiate chair, if appropriate, and the Graduate and Professional School. It is required that the petition for exemption be submitted the same semester the student intends to submit the thesis.

For the non-thesis option, a thesis is not required. A final comprehensive examination is required for all non-thesis Master of Arts students.

The final exam cannot be held prior to the mid-point of the semester if questions on the exam are based on courses in which the student is currently enrolled. If a student has completed all required degree plan coursework, the student is not required to be registered for classes in the semester the final examination is administered (unless he/she holds an assistantship). For specific final examination requirements, a student should check the program requirements for the degree which he/she is pursuing.

The student’s department will promptly report the results of the Final Examination to the Graduate and Professional School via the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS) within 10 working days of completion of the final examination. If an approved committee member substitution (one only) has been made, their approval must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School via ARCS.

A student pursuing the non-thesis option is not allowed to enroll in 691 (Research) for any reason and 691 may not be used for credit toward a non-thesis option Master of Arts degree. A maximum of 4 credit hours of 684 (Professional Internship), 8 credit hours of 685 (Directed Studies), and up to 3 credit hours of 690 (Theory of Research) or 695 (Frontiers in Research) may be used toward the non-thesis option Master’s degree. In addition, any combination of 684, 685, 690 and 695 may not exceed 25 percent of the total credit hour requirement shown on the individual degree plan. All requirements for the non-thesis option Master’s degree other than those specified above are the same as for the thesis option degree. All requirements for the non-thesis option Master of Arts degree other than those specified above are the same as for the thesis option degree.

The department head or the chair of an intercollegiate faculty (if appropriate) for the program may approve an exception for a PhD student who changes to a non-thesis option Master of Arts degree program after at least one year of PhD studies to use 691 credits toward a non-thesis option Master’s degree. The department head or chair of an intercollegiate faculty (if appropriate) for the program may approve an exception for a master’s student who changes from a Master’s thesis option degree to a Master’s non-thesis option degree program to use 691 credits toward a non-thesis option Master’s degree. In both cases, the student is allowed to use a maximum of 8 credit hours of 685 and 691 combined. Departments, Colleges, and Interdisciplinary Degree Programs may opt to establish higher standards. Further any combination of 684, 685, 690, 691, and 695 may not exceed 25 percent of the total credit hour requirement shown on the individual degree plan. All requirements for the non-thesis option Master’s degree other than those specified above are the same as for the thesis option degree.

Additional Requirements

Continuous registration, foreign languages, application for degree.

In partial fulfillment of the residence requirement for the degree of Master of Arts, the student must complete 9 resident credit hours during one regular semester or one 10-week summer semester in resident study at Texas A&M University. A minimum of 1 credit hour must be in a non-distance education delivery mode. Semesters during which the student is enrolled in all distance education coursework will not count toward fulfillment of the residence requirement. Upon recommendation of the student’s advisory committee, department head or Chair of the Interdisciplinary Program, if appropriate, and with approval of the Graduate and Professional School, a student may be granted exemption from this requirement. Such a petition, however, must be approved prior to the student’s registration for the final 9 credit hours of required coursework.

Students who are employed full-time while completing their degree may fulfill total residence requirements by completion of less-than-full time course loads each semester. In order to be considered for this, the student is required to submit a Petition for Waivers and Exceptions along with verification of his/her employment to the Graduate and Professional School.

See  Residence Requirements .

A student in the thesis option of the Master of Arts program who has completed all coursework on his/her degree plan other than 691 (Research) is required to be in continuous registration until all requirements for the degree have been completed. See  Continuous Registration Requirements .

All degree requirements must be completed within a period of seven consecutive years for the degree to be granted. A course will be considered valid until seven years after the end of the semester in which it is taken. Graduate credit for coursework which is more than seven calendar years old at the time of the final examination (oral or written) may not be used to satisfy degree requirements.

A student who has chosen the thesis option must have the final corrected copies of the thesis cleared by the Graduate and Professional School within one year of the semester in which the final exam is taken, or a  final exam exemption petition was approved. Exams taken in between terms will expire at the end of the term that ended prior to the exam. For example, a final exam taken and passed during the fall 2022 semester will expire at the end of the fall 2023 semester. A final exam  taken in the time between the summer and fall 2022 semesters will expire at the end of the summer 2023 semester.

For the degree of Master of Arts, a reading knowledge (usually represented by two years of college study) of at least one foreign language is normally required.

For information on applying for your degree, please visit the  Graduation  section.

Chemistry, MA (Non-Thesis)

Requirements.

The Master of Arts in Chemistry (non-thesis option) requires a total of 36 approved hours, including at least 24 in chemistry with no more than a total of six hours of credit in the courses listed below:

Each student is also required to pass an oral examination based upon the chosen program of study.

The teaching experience is considered an important part of the graduate training program. Each student on the MA track is required to participate in a minimum of 2, but usually no more than 4, semesters of teaching.

MA - Non-Thesis

Master of arts in history without thesis, available on campus or online.

• Total of 30 credit hours in History at the 600 level or higher.
• HIST 889 Graduate Historical Methods as requirement of program.
• Historiography (Hist 879) - 3 credit hours
• Two seminars - 6 credit hours - in which the student will write major research papers. The student must pass with a grade of A or B.
• Electives in History - 18 credit hours
• Satisfactory performance on the Written Comprehensive Exam as outlined in #6 of the thesis option, except that exam length shall be 8 hours.
• Any exceptions to the requirements must be approved by the department Chair. MA non-thesis checklist

How to Reach Us

History Programs Fort Hays State University 600 Park Street Rarick Hall 384 Phone: 785-628-4248 Contact Us

Communication

College of liberal arts and sciences, non-thesis option, info heading link copy link.

The Non-Thesis Option in the M.A. Program of the Department of Communication requires that candidates for the degree satisfactorily complete a comprehensive examination including a written portion and an oral defense.

Students who elect the non-thesis option must declare their intention during their first year of coursework (but no later than April 1), listing the planned area of study on the M.A. Option  Declaration form , with the agreement of an advisor and approval of the DGS and department head. Students must be in  good standing  as defined by the Graduate College.

The student selects an advisor from the faculty to serve as chair of the committee. In consultation with the advisor, the student proposes a program of study to complete coursework and selects two additional committee members, who then review the proposal. Upon receiving approval of the program, the student becomes a candidate in the non-thesis option, and the members form the candidate’s M.A. Non-Thesis Examining Committee. The committee conducts all aspects of the examination in mutual consultation.

View and download the  Non-Thesis Option Form PDF .

A. Comprehensive Exam Heading link Copy link

The examination assesses whether the candidate has reached the learning objectives of the M.A. in Communication program, as well as the goals the student has set for the individual program of study. The exam tests candidates on their overall knowledge of topics within the required courses and within courses for the chosen area(s) of specialization in communication. Each committee member represents a content area and becomes the lead questioner or main reader for that area.

The oral portion of the exam takes place only after successful completion of the written portion. Candidates may retake the written portion of the exam one time only. A candidate who passes two units but not the other must retake only the unit previously failed. A candidate who fails two units must retake the entire exam.

In the orals, candidates may clarify and justify their written answers, and the committee questions candidates about their written responses and about other aspects of the exam. All members of the committee must attend the oral examination, must participate fully in questioning, and must join in the discussion and decision on the results.

Candidates who fail a question twice on the written portion or fail the oral portion will not be allowed to continue in or complete the M.A. in Communication program.

B. Format of the Exam Heading link Copy link

The written portion of the examination divides into three units corresponding to the content areas the committee selects. The committee will provide a reading list to the candidate normally at least six weeks in advance of any examination question.

Each unit will include one or two questions for the candidate to answer during an agreed upon exam period. The committee will come to agreement with the candidate on the scheduling time and place for each exam, whether examinations will take place under supervision or not, and what materials the candidates use (such as readings, notes, or internet access) for each unit of the exam. Appropriate accommodation is available for persons with disabilities.

The three units will come in the order the committee determines, with units normally spaced out over a period of no more than one semester. In cases where a candidate establishes to the committee’s satisfaction the need to complete the full exam in a shorter or longer period, the committee will provide an equivalent notice and preparation time.

The written exams will assess the candidate’s achievement in reaching the core goals of the program, including a grasp of pertinent concepts, knowledge of methods, and skills at writing. Each unit or content area is graded on a pass/fail basis.

C. Examination Standing Heading link Copy link

Candidates who propose to take the comprehensive examination for the non-thesis option of the degree must notify the Director of Graduate Studies, usually no later than the middle of the last semester in which the student is taking courses.

Candidates may withdraw their request for examination up to the last day before receiving the first unit exam. Within one week of that date, the student must propose to the committee a plan to finalize the exam.

The oral defense will take place after the candidate completes the third unit of the written exam. At the end of the oral defense, the candidate will leave the room, the committee will deliberate, and, once the members reach consensus, the chair will invite the candidate to return and will announce the results. At the end of the oral defense, the candidate will leave the room, the committee will deliberate, and once the members reach consensus, the chair will invite the candidate to return and will announce the results.

• College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
• Department of History

Graduate Program

• Degrees Offered
• M.A.Non-Thesis Track

University of Houston Department of History 3553 Cullen Boulevard, Room 524 Houston, TX 77204-3000 713.743.3083

Main Office Carol Aikels Department Business Administrator 524 Agnes Arnold Hall  713.743.0200

Undergraduate Office Aarti Arriaga Undergraduate Advisor 517 Agnes Arnold Hall 713.743.3608

Graduate Office Michele "Scout" Johnson Graduate Director 713.743.4233

Department Chair Nancy Beck Young 542 Agnes Arnold Hall 713.743.3085

Related Links

• Career Services
• Graduate Catalog
• Graduate and Professional Studies
• Student Handbook

M.A. Non-Thesis Track

For full time students, the recommended timetable for this thirty-six (36) hour degree is as follows:

First Year: Regardless of how students arrange their courses in their first year, all students will be expected to complete a research seminar, at least one historiography course, at least one major field course, and at least one minor field course. The remaining two courses will be chosen according to students’ individual program requirements and the available course offerings.

Second Year: We expect all students to complete all coursework and pass an oral examination on their coursework by the end of their second year.

Degree-plan worksheets for all fields can be found here:

Student Degree Plan Worksheet

Each student must declare a major area of study, selecting from United States, European, Latin American, Modern Arab/Middle East, or Global history.

• Ancient History
• Early Modern England
• Modern France
• Modern European Social and Women’s History
• Modern European Intellectual
• Modern Russia/USSR

Latin America

United states, global history.

Specific field definitions for M.A. work in Global history will be determined in consultation with the faculty advisor, subject to approval by the Director of Graduate Studies. Examples of what might be attempted in this field include America and the world; the Atlantic World; comparative history involving study of two or more countries, regions, or continents; energy and the environment; gender; immigration history; international relations; the Pacific Rim; the Global South; Capitalism and Labor; and race and ethnicity. Students may base their Global work in any of the regions where the department has faculty resources: Africa, Asia, Europe, Global South, Latin America, Modern Arab/Middle East, or the United States. For a detailed list of faculty research interests, please visit the Faculty Page .

For a complete description of all program requirements and policies, please download the Graduate Student Handbook. The material on this website constitutes a brief introduction to the program and the application process.

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Master of Arts (M.A.) Major in Political Science (Non-thesis Option)

Program overview.

Graduate students find exceptional resources at their fingertips. With a large full-time faculty, students have the opportunity for a close intellectual exchange with professors. Texas State is also a depository for federal and state government documents as well as a member of the Council of Research and Academic Libraries. Current master’s students have been successful in pursuing doctoral education, teaching careers or professional careers ranging from federal, state and local government to nonprofit organizations.

Application Requirements

The items listed below are required for admission consideration for applicable semesters of entry during the current academic year. Submission instructions, additional details, and changes to admission requirements for semesters other than the current academic year can be found on The Graduate College's website . International students should review the International Admission Documents page for additional requirements.

• completed online application
• $55 nonrefundable application fee

          or

• $90 nonrefundable application fee for applications with international credentials
• baccalaureate degree in political science from a regionally accredited university (Non-U.S. degrees must be equivalent to a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree. In most cases, three-year degrees are not considered. Visit our  International FAQs  for more information.)
• official transcripts from  each institution  where course credit was granted
• a 3.0 overall GPA or a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses)*
• background course work: political science undergraduate minor or at least nine hours of upper-level course work in political science or related field*
• GRE not required*
• statement of purpose (minimum 500 words)
• three letters of recommendation
• writing sample (minimum five pages, double-spaced) from a political science course or social science/humanities course

Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum program requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our  exempt countries list .

• official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall
• official PTE scores required with a 52
• official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and minimum individual module scores of 6.0
• official Duolingo Scores required with a 110 overall
• official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall

This program does  not  offer admission if the scores above are not met.

*Additional Information If the last-60-hours GPA does not meet the minimum requirement, or the student does not have the undergraduate degree, minor, or upper-level course work, the student must submit the following:

• official GRE (general test only) with competitive scores in the verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing sections to be considered for conditional admission. Conditional admission is not available to applicants who require "F" or "J" visas.

Degree Requirements

The Master of Arts (M.A.) degree with a major in Political Science requires 36 semester credit hours. Students who do not have the appropriate background course work may be required to complete leveling courses.

Course Requirements

Comprehensive Examination Requirement

The Non-thesis Track comprehensive exam is a written exam administered in the student’s final semester in the program (in April of the spring semester or November of the fall semester). The written exam focuses on the student's program coursework. Students who perform unacceptably on the exam may take the exam a second time in a subsequent semester.

Students who do not successfully complete the requirements for the degree within the timelines specified will be dismissed from the program.

Master's level courses in Political Science: PS

Courses Offered

Political science (ps).

PS 5100. Instructional Methods Practicum for Graduate Assistants.

This course introduces key concepts and practices in the teaching of college introductory political science courses. It provides regular in-service training and planned periodic evalutations of instructional responsibilities. This course does not earn graduate degree credit. It is repeatable 3 times with different emphases and with a maximum of 4 credit hours.

PS 5199B. Thesis.

This course represents a student's continuing thesis enrollments. The student continues to enroll in a Thesis B course until the thesis is submitted for binding.

PS 5299B. Thesis.

PS 5300. Foundation Studies in Political Science.

Students develop knowledge and skills required for success in graduate-level coursework in Political Science. Course content varies depending on academic preparation. This course does not earn graduate degree credit. The approval of the graduate program director is required. It is repeatable 3 times with different emphases and with a maximum of 12 credit hours.

PS 5301. Approaches to the Study of Political Science.

This course provides an intensive introduction to the advanced study of political science. It focuses on the key concepts, variables, and approaches used to describe, explain, and predict political phenomena. It also discusses key normative theories and the variety of methodologies used in political science.

PS 5302. Political Research and Methodology.

This course is a topical seminar for the exploration of problems in the scope and the methods of political science and public administration. The course emphasizes quantitative methods.

PS 5310. Studies in Ancient and Medieval Political Thought.

This course covers selected topics in Greek and Roman political theory, patristic understanding of politics, and the political theory of the Middle and High Middle Ages. This course includes study of the writings and thought of Thucydides, Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Augustine, Al-Farabi, John of Salisbury, Aquinas, and others.

PS 5311. Social Contract Theory.

This course is an examination of the social contract, consent, and popular sovereignty in early modern thought. Attention is given to the work of Thomas Hobbs, John Locke, Jean Jeaques Rousseau, and Immanuel Kant (as well as others) and to their critics both then and now.

PS 5312. Roots of American Constitutionalism.

This course examines the origins and evolution of the ideas which inform the American constitutional system, includes an examination of classical, Christian, medieval, Renaissance, and Enlightenment thought that, combined with the British liberal tradition, laid the groundwork for the American experiment.

PS 5313. Justice and Liberty in American Thought.

This course examines the concepts of justice and liberty in American thought from the seventeenth century to the present. Attention is given both to the nature of liberty and justice and to their practical requirement as understood by various American thinkers, including statesmen, reformers, social scientists, and philosophers.

PS 5315. Contemporary Perspectives in Modern Liberalism.

This course is a bried review of the history and development of modern liberalism and the ensuing response and contemporary alternatives.

PS 5316. The Crisis of Liberalism and The Future of Democracy.

This course is an examination of the nature and intellectual foundations of the liberal tradition and the implications of the crisis besetting contemporary theory for the future of democractic government.

PS 5317. Theological Perspectives in Modern Democracy.

This course explores the influence of religion on the rise of modern democracy and the efforts of various religious thinkers to explore the nature and foundations of democratic government.

PS 5318. The Problem of Power and the Crisis of Modernity.

This course is an examination of the crisis of modernity and its implications for humanity's future.

PS 5330A. Nuclear Weapons in International Politics.

This course examines the effects of nuclear weapons on international politics. The course begins with a comparative historical account of the nuclear arms race and efforts to achieve nuclear arms control and disarmament. It then shifts to examine contemporary theories of nuclear proliferation and the case studies which illumine them. (MULT).

PS 5330B. Tocqueville and American Democracy.

This course considers Tocqueville's Democracy in America. Topics include the relationship between aristocracy and democracy; the instability of democracy; the antidotes to these instabilities; the significance of habit in Tocqueville's thought; the case for American Exceptionalism; and the importance of religion for democracy.

PS 5330C. Party Systems in Latin America.

The course examines some key insights in party and party system theory and practice. Latin America is the regional referent for examining these themes, and country examples are studied in considerable depth to illustrate the theory. (MULT).

PS 5330D. Problems in Political Science: International Humanitarian Affairs.

This course inquires into the intellectual legacy of international humanitarian issues, including forced migration, refugee problems, moral issues related to humanitarian intervention and emergency aid issues. (MULT).

PS 5330E. Religion and American Political Culture.

An examination of the ways in which religious beliefs and institutions have shaped American political culture; the ways in which American culture has influenced these beliefs and institutions; and the ongoing debates regarding the proper role of religion in American public life.

PS 5330F. Topics in Comparative Politics of European and Developing Countries.

This course explores the recent political history, institutions, party systems, and economic policies of some of the major countries in the globe. The course is devoted to the study of individual advanced European democracies as well as important developing nations, including China, Iran, Russia, Mexico, India and South Africa.

PS 5330H. Topics in Political Science: Seminar on Freedom of Speech and Thought.

This course considers freedom of speech and thought as foundational conditions in liberal conceptions of human flourishing. The course will combine a close reading of modern and contemporary authors with an analysis of recent controversies implicating these freedoms, such as debates about hate speech and political correctness.

PS 5330J. Authoritarian Regimes.

While democracy became the most common political regime type around the world in the 1990s, many authoritarian regimes continue to persist or have emerged in countries such as China, Cameroon, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Venezuela. How do these regimes emerge and function in the presence of popular demands for democratization and leadership challenges from authoritarian regime elites? How do authoritarian regimes collapse and what are the prospects for democracy in current authoritarian regimes? How do authoritarian regimes act in international relations? This course surveys the existing literature on these questions.

PS 5332. Problems in American Foreign Relations.

This course is a seminar based on selected topics in American foreign policy and United States involvement in international relations. (MULT).

PS 5334. Texas Politics.

This course examines some of the traditional debates over federalism, intergovernmental relations, and different ways people compare the states. It introduces Texas political institutions and its political history as well as examines some of the current Texas public policy questions such as education, criminal justice, and economic development.

PS 5335. The Role of Interests in America.

This course examines the role of interest groups and other organizations in the United States. Students learn about the range of social and economic interests presently active in our country and what observers from a variety of perspectives believe this activity implies for the health of our political system.

PS 5336. Property, Liberty, and Popular Sovereignty.

This course examines the role, status, and power of property in demographic societies. It takes a modified historical approach to the subject, tracing attitudes regarding property from before the American Revolution until today. Although the emphasis is on the United States, the course reviews property in other societies where appropriate.

PS 5337. American Political Culture.

This course explores selected problems related to American political culture with particular emphasis on the question of the cultural preconditions of free government. Beginning with Alexis de Tocqueville's classic study of American political culture, the course explores different Tocquevillian themes in a contemporary American context.

PS 5338. American Political Discourse.

This class identifies the way political discourse and social and political cultures connect within Americans' minds. Diverse theoretical perspectives will be used to explore the phenomena involved in social and political issues regarding values, meanings, norms, and prejudices and methods of improving political discourse within American political culture.

PS 5339. The American Presidency.

The course entails an historical analysis of presidential elections from 1789 to the present day. In addition, students examine and engage in reasonable speculations about the upcoming elections.

PS 5340. Congress and the Legislative Process.

This course examines the American legislative process with a focus on Congress. The framework for the course is based on three themes: 1) the "dual Congress," i.e., the notions of deliberation versus representation; 2) the distribution of power in Congress and its consequences; and 3) the bicameral nature of Congress.

PS 5341. Seminar in Constitutional Law and Theory.

This course examines selected issues in constitutional theory, including the theory of judicial review, and constitutional interpretation. It examines the debate on constitutional interpretation in light of cases dealing with the First Amendment freedom of speech, press, and religion, and with substantive due process and the equal protection clause.

PS 5356. The British Political Order Since 1900.

This course examines British policy from 1901 to the present and the major events that affected British history and politics. (MULT).

PS 5357. Russian Politics and Josef Stalin.

This course examines Josef Stalin's personal and public life, analyzes his accomplishments and failures, and generates a summative assessment of his impact on Russian and global politics. (MULT).

PS 5359. Comparative Democratization.

This course examines the inner workings of autocracies and democracies in the developing world, as well as processes of regime transitions.

PS 5360. Economic Development in Developing Nations.

This course examines some of the factors that account for economic development/underdevelopment in developing nations. The factors examined include political, economic and institutional variables. These underlying variables reveal the multi-causal nature of socio-economic development. (MULT).

PS 5361. Government and Politics of African States.

This course examines governments and politics of African states. It examines the nature of domestic and international politics, the precolonial politics and political culture, the impact of the colonial period on politics, several cases of post-colonial successes and failures, the critical nature of external involvement in the politics, and the settings of civil war. (MULT).

PS 5362. Problems of Democracy in Latin America.

This course examines the main structural and institutional obstacles that stand in the way of high quality democracy in Latin America. (MULT).

PS 5363. Party Systems in Latin America.

PS 5371. American Grand Strategy.

This course examines the making of American grand strategy and the scholarly debates surrounding the various strategic options to best advance the long-term national interest. The class examines theories of grand strategy, as well as historical and modern examples, and focuses on drawing parallels and lessons for the present and the future.

PS 5375. Seminar in International Relations Theory.

This course is designed to engage students in the major theoretical and conceptual traditions of international relations in order to assess the complex issues, developments and events constituting international politics. (MULT).

PS 5377. Problems in International Organizations.

This course analyzes the structure, functions, and role of the international organizations in the international system. The course addresses the role of international regions, regional organizations, functional agencies, and bilateral organizations. The procedures and processes on international argument and policy-making are studied through participation in a model security council. (MULT).

PS 5378. Problems in International Law.

This course examines the nature, functions, and scope, of international law. It addresses several major areas including legal sources, diplomatic practice, territorial jurisdiction, legal personality, the law of state responsibility, asylum law, human rights, and the law of war. The course is heavily research oriented and includes moot court arbitration. (MULT).

PS 5379. Problems in International Political Economy.

This course examines theories and issues in international political economy. The course emphasizes the political and economic conditions conducive to the development of cooperative international economic behavior among countries. (MULT).

PS 5380. International Conflict and Security.

This course deals with the field of security studies. Security studies focuses on what Clausewitz famously called "politics by other means": war. This course centers on three enduring topics: the causes of war, the use of force, and the future of warfare. (MULT).

PS 5389. Internship in Government.

This course offers students practical experience in the on-going work of a selected governmental unit. The student is evaluated on the basis of a research paper, work journal, and work performance. The approval of the graduate program director is required. It may be repeated once with different emphasis and with a maximum of 6 credit hours.

PS 5390. Political Science Curriculum Development.

This course is designed for graduate students with a social science teacher emphasis who are interested in teaching dual credit courses on federal or state government. The course focuses on practical teaching matters including, construction of syllabi, delivering effective lectures, teaching formats, test construction, and grading practices Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

PS 5391. Political Science Teaching Practicum.

This course is designed for graduate students with a social science teacher emphasis who are interested in teaching dual credit courses. Prerequisite: PS 5390 with a grade of “B” or better and instructor approval.

PS 5398. Directed Reading and Research.

This course is an advanced reading and/or research on various topics in political science under the direction of a graduate faculty member. It may be repeated once with different emphasis and professor for a maximum of 6 credit hours. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

PS 5399A. Thesis.

This course represents a student's initial thesis enrollment. No thesis credit is awarded until a student has completed the thesis under a Political Science Thesis B course.

PS 5399B. Thesis.

PS 5599B. Thesis.

PS 5999B. Thesis.

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English - master's (ma).

DEGREE OVERVIEW

The MA in English is designed to enable students to learn about, critique, and work in teaching, research, writing, or other fields that value a strong grounding in language, literature, rhetoric, and the study of culture through texts.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The MA program provides a strong grounding in scholarly methods and in theory, making it an ideal preparation for doctoral study; it is also useful for teachers who want to sharpen their ability to teach literature and writing and for professionals who want to improve their writing skills. MA students benefit from

• Award-winning faculty recognized for excellence in teaching and research
• Low faculty-to-student ratio and small class sizes
• An individualized program of study
• A higher average salary for their future careers than those of students who do not earn an MA
• Flexible scheduling
• Admissions requirements
• Degree curriculum (scroll down to course list)
• Degree information in the University Catalog
• Graduate Faculty - Department of English  

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

• Educational administration and services
• Technical writing
• Media and public relations
• Other business fields that require excellent writing and communication skills

DEGREE OPTIONS

English - MA - Thesis Option

The thesis option is a 30-credit-hour program and requires 24 hours of coursework (two three-credit-hour core courses and 18 hours of electives) and at least six hours of thesis. The degree culminates with a defense of the thesis.

UTA English - Graduate Studies

English - MA - Non-Thesis Option

The non-thesis option requires a 30-credit-hour program of coursework, and all 30 hours take the form of coursework (two three credit-hour-core courses and 30 hours of electives). The final requirement for a non-thesis MA is submission of a portfolio, which will consist of a variety of writing assignments designed to prepare the student to enter the professional and/or academic workplace.

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• Research-1 Doctoral University (Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education)
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Phone: 817-272-0466

Email: [email protected]

Learn more about this program on the Department or College website.

Department of English

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Educational Leadership (M.A.)

Program description.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Leadership (Non-Thesis) offered by the Department of Integrated Studies in Education in the Faculty of Education is a course-based program that emphasizes career-focused and innovative learning opportunities. The program's objective is to equip students with skills in problem identification, critical thinking, and communication to pursue professional opportunities (or potentially continue their studies).

The program may be taken as one of the following options:

Course Work option : is primarily course-based with an emphasis on the evidence-based skills, capacities, and dispositions needed for effective, collaborative, and quality leadership.

Gender and Women's Studies option : provides students with an opportunity to earn credits of approved course work and action-oriented projects focusing on gender and women’s studies, and issues in feminist research and methods.

Project option : combines course work and action-oriented projects with an emphasis on the evidence-based skills, capacities, and dispositions needed for effective, collaborative, and quality leadership.

Unique Program Features

• The program is designed to prepare leaders in the field of education who are committed to personal and institutional improvement in schools and other sites of formal or informal learning. A central theme of the program is the impact of policy on educational practice at local, national, and international levels;
• Students will develop evidence-based skills and refine their capacities and dispositions needed for effective, collaborative, and quality leadership;
• The program tends to be more appropriate for those looking to pursue graduate studies alongside full-time work or are primarily pursuing the degree for career advancement.

University-Level Admission Requirements

• An eligible Bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA out of a possible 4.0 GPA
• English-language proficiency

Each program has specific admission requirements including required application documents. Please visit the program website for more details.

Visit our Educational credentials and grade equivalencies and English language proficiency webpages for additional information.

Program Website

MA in Educational Leadership website

Department Contact

Graduate Program grad.dise [at] mcgill.ca (subject: MA%20in%20Educational%20Leadership%20(Non-Thesis)) (email)

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MA, Linguistics – Non-thesis

The discipline of Linguistics is the scientific analysis of the complex systems of language. It embraces phonology and phonetics, morphology, syntax, and semantics in the synchronic and diachronic study of contemporary as well as ancient languages.

Degree Type: Masters

Degree Program Code: MA_LING_NT

Degree Program Summary:

Linguistics at the University of Georgia is interdisciplinary by nature, having 30 faculty members sourced from 11 different departments across campus. Our graduate program provides both a strong grounding in core areas of linguistics as well as the opportunity for specialization within the broad areas of formal linguistic theory, second language acquisition, language variation and change, and historical Indo-European linguistics. The program boasts a diverse research-oriented community, a faculty with a wide range of research interests, exceptional library resources, and a dynamic learning environment.

Formal linguistic theory

This area deals with language structure and meaning, with the goal of constructing theoretical models to explain how humans acquire, produce, and comprehend language. Research focuses on the study of the sounds of human language (phonetics and phonology), the structure of words (morphology), the structure of sentences (syntax), and meaning (semantics), using natural language data, speaker intuitions, and experimental methods. Students may choose a specific area within formal linguistics theory to focus on.

Second language acquisition

This area offers a curriculum that treats the theoretical linguistic bases for learning languages. Students may concentrate on the acquisition of specific languages, such as French, Spanish, or German. For students who are interested primarily in teaching English as a second language or in high-school foreign language education, the Department of Language and Literacy Education in the College of Education offers M.E.d and Ph.D. degrees in these areas.

Language variation and change

This area represents two interconnected areas. Languages inevitably change over time and these changes are a source of synchronic variation. The existence of linguistic variants often leads to social valuation of specific features, and these valuations or other social factors (such as language contact) can themselves drive linguistic change. The study of language variation focuses on contemporary and historical patterns of language change, including changes in progress, social factors related to variation, and empirical research methods for the investigation of language in use.

Historical Indo-European linguistics

This area investigates change over a greater depth of time; it involves both the methodology for comparison and reconstruction of historical languages and an intense, hermeneutic approach to studying ancient languages individually. Students can acquire a close familiarity with the sounds, grammar, and vocabulary of languages like ancient Greek, Latin, Sanskrit, Classical Armenian, Gothic, Old English, Old Church Slavic, and others.

Locations Offered:

Athens (Main Campus)

College / School:

Franklin College of Arts & Sciences

346 Brooks Hall Athens, GA 30602

706-542-8776

Department:

Linguistics

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Clinical Psychology (MA) – Applied Pre-Licensure/Non-Thesis

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The Master of Arts Clinical Psychology Program is a terminal master's program offered at the UCF Sanford/Lake Mary Campus. The Applied Pre-Licensure/Non-Thesis Track is designed for students interested in delivering clinical services in a variety of settings including community agencies and private practice. After completing the program and after two years of postgraduate supervised clinical experience, graduates are eligible to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) in the state of Florida. Please visit the program's website for more information, including a list of program faculty members and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs).

The Clinical Psychology Applied Pre-Licensure/Non-Thesis Track requires a minimum of 61 credit hours beyond the Bachelor's degree, including 49 credit hours of required courses and 12 clinical internship credit hours. This track is for students primarily interested in clinical practice at the Master's level upon graduation; however, some students in this track have applied to and gained admission into doctoral programs after graduation.

The primary areas of emphasis include assessment or evaluation skills and intervention or psychotherapy skills, and the program curriculum is consistent with the educational criteria for licensure as a mental health counselor in the state of Florida. Program graduates have been involved in mental health service delivery through individual, marital, family, and group psychotherapy, as well as crisis intervention and other specialized therapeutic procedures. Although research is not required in this track, students in this track do have the opportunity to engage in collaborative research with program faculty.

Total Credit Hours Required: 61 Credit Hours Minimum beyond the Bachelor's Degree

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Track Prerequisites

A bachelor's degree in Psychology or a related area. A minimum of 15 semester hours of undergraduate psychology courses are required as a prerequisite for applicants with a degree in a field other than psychology. Completion of courses in abnormal psychology (or psychopathology) and research methods and/or statistics is strongly recommended. Other recommended courses include clinical psychology, developmental psychology, personality theory, physiological psychology, and psychology of diversity.

Degree Requirements

Required courses.

• CLP5166 - Advanced Psychopathology (3)
• CLP6181 - Psychological Theories of Substance Abuse Treatment (3)
• CLP6191 - Multicultural Psychotherapy (3)
• CLP6195C - Introduction to Psychotherapy (3)
• CLP6321 - Psychotherapy in Community Settings (3)
• CLP6441C - Individual Psychological Assessment I (3)
• CLP6457C - Group Psychotherapy (3)
• CLP6459C - Human Sexuality, Marriage, and Sex Therapies (3)
• CLP6461 - Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (3)
• CLP6449C - Career and Lifestyle Assessment (3)
• CLP6932 - Ethical and Professional Issues in Mental Health Practices (3)
• CYP6942 - Practicum in Psychological Counseling (3)
• DEP5057 - Developmental Psychology (3)
• PSY6216C - Research Methodology (4)
• PSB5005 - Physiological Psychology (3)
• CLP6460C - Introduction to Child, Adolescent, and Family Therapies (3)
• CYP6948C - Psychology Internship (1 - 99)
• The purpose of the internship requirement is to provide the MA candidate in Clinical Psychology with comprehensive, practical experiences under the supervision of licensed mental health professionals. A public agency or nonprofit institution with nondiscriminatory practices is the prototype. The intern works at an acceptable agency during a minimum of three consecutive academic semesters (20 hours per week for 16 weeks during fall and spring terms of second year, and 20 hours per week for 8-12 weeks during the summer term of second year). The internship and practicum requirements combined must result in at least 1000 hours of experience. An additional commitment of three hours per week is required for the interns to meet as a group with a departmental faculty member for review, feedback, and discussions. A major portion of intern training is in the area of psychotherapy/counseling. The intern also engages in differential diagnosis and participates in a wide variety of psychological assessment procedures. It is believed that supervision by qualified and experienced personnel is the primary learning mode by which the intern develops professional expertise and augments classroom didactics. Satisfactory completion ("B" [3.0-grade point average] or better) of the following courses is required prior to internship: CLP 5166, CLP 6195C, CLP 6441C, CLP 6932, and CYP 6942. Students must also have satisfactory completion of the courses CLP 6321 and CLP 6461, though if students begin their internship during the summer semester of their first year they may be taking these courses concurrently with the start of their internship. The Program Director and Associate Director of Clinical Training approve practicum and internship placements. Interns are provided with a system for maintaining accurate accounts of their activity during each week of their internship. In addition, the supervisor(s) complete an evaluation form documenting the intern’s progress each semester and the intern completes an Internship Evaluation form at the conclusion of the internship experience.

Comprehensive Exam and Case Presentation

• The culminating academic experience for all students in this track is successful completion of a comprehensive exam and case presentation. All students must complete the comprehensive exam no later than their final semester. The exam covers the core professional knowledge required by state licensing agencies. Students also are required to complete a written and oral clinical case presentation. Criteria for passing the exam and presentation are provided in the program handbook.

Grand Total Credits: 61

Application requirements, financial information.

Graduate students may receive financial assistance through fellowships, assistantships, tuition support, or loans. For more information, see the College of Graduate Studies Funding website, which describes the types of financial assistance available at UCF and provides general guidance in planning your graduate finances. The Financial Information section of the Graduate Catalog is another key resource.

Fellowship Information

Fellowships are awarded based on academic merit to highly qualified students. They are paid to students through the Office of Student Financial Assistance, based on instructions provided by the College of Graduate Studies. Fellowships are given to support a student's graduate study and do not have a work obligation. For more information, see UCF Graduate Fellowships, which includes descriptions of university fellowships and what you should do to be considered for a fellowship.

Additional Program Requirements

For all students in the Clinical MA program, successful completion requires demonstration of academic and clinical excellence. Students who receive grades lower than B (including B- and grades of U in courses graded satisfactory/unsatisfactory) in six semester hours or more will be dismissed from the program. It is a program requirement that all coursework with a grade lower than B be retaken and completed successfully, although both grades are still calculated in the GPA.

In addition to academic excellence, students are expected to demonstrate clinical skills and personal resources necessary to meet the demands of the program and for clinical practice. At the end of each semester, students will receive written feedback from the faculty on the extent to which they are meeting the program's requirements and performance expectations. Student progress will be rated as satisfactory or unsatisfactory. Students who receive an unsatisfactory rating will be asked to complete remediation as determined by the faculty. If the identified problems are not remedied and/or a second unsatisfactory rating is received, the student will be dismissed from the program.

Summer Enrollment

Summer enrollment is required for all students in this track.

Independent Learning

There are several independent learning experiences built into the programs of study that help to individualize the training program. Students work with the Associate Director of Clinical Training and their academic advisor to select specific practicum and internship placements. During practicum and internship students will have the opportunity to present cases that incorporate an integration of assessment data and its interpretation, theoretical conceptualization, treatment planning, course of therapy, and available outcome data. This is done ensuring client confidentiality and the highest ethical standards. Although not required for this track, students in this track do have the opportunity to engage in collaborative research with program faculty.

Can you provide an overview of the Pre-licensure Track?

This track has been offered for decades. As mentioned in our catalogue description, the primary goal of this track is to train students to become licensed, master’s-level clinicians. More specifically, graduates of this track are eligible to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) in the State of Florida, and they will likely be eligible for master’s level licensure in most other states. This track includes a full course load (9-12 credits per semester) for two years. Students in this track complete a practicum (10 hours/week for one semester during the first year of the program) and internship (20 hours/week in the fall, spring, and summer semesters in the second year in the program). A majority of the graduates of this program enter clinical practice and obtain licensure at the master’s level. We usually admit 10 to 14 students into this track each fall term.

How do I get licensed?

Students in the Pre-licensure track meet the eligibility criteria for licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the State of Florida. Please note that more details about eligibility criteria can be found on the Florida Department of Health website. In addition, our students are also eligible for similar licensure in most other states; however, we are unable to confirm the licensure and certification requirements of other states. Consequently, if you intend to pursue such credentialing outside of Florida, we advise you to contact the applicable state credentialing authority to familiarize yourself with its specific requirements and determine if our program meets its eligibility criteria.

Can I get into a doctoral program if I complete the Pre-licensure track?

Yes! As mentioned above, most students in the Pre-licensure track practice at the master’s level upon graduation. Having said that, each year we have a number of graduating students who apply to and get into Ph.D. or Psy.D. programs. Engagement in research may increase students’ competitiveness when applying to doctoral programs.

Can I do research if I am in the Pre-licensure track?

Yes. Research is not required as part of this track; however, students in the Pre-licensure track are often engaged in collaborative research with faculty. It is common for students in this track to present research at scientific conferences, and some of these students become coauthors of peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals.

Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics Take a Deep Dive into Apologetics

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100% online, 8-week courses

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Follow Your Calling with a Master’s Degree in Christian Apologetics Online

Do you want to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with non-believers? If clarifying misunderstandings about Christianity or responding to intellectual objections sounds like fun, then maybe you have a calling to study apologetics. Removing the obstacles that are in the way of someone seeing the truth of Scripture is something that apologists do regularly.

Liberty University’s Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics is a 100% online Christian ministry degree program. Our online Christian apologetics courses can provide you with the philosophical, historical, and biblical knowledge to defend the truth claims of Christianity. Through our Christian apologetics training, you can gain a more profound understanding of Scripture for personal ministry and strengthen your understanding of the Bible.

Accreditation

Liberty Theological Seminary, as part of Liberty University’s John W. Rawlings School of Divinity, is accredited by the  Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools ( ATS ) . Your seminary degree is approved by ATS and has met rigorous accreditation standards, so you can feel confident that your degree is both academically excellent and well-respected among churches, ministries, and nonprofit organizations.

What Will You Study in Our Master’s in Apologetics?

Christian apologists must be able to defend the Bible with confidence and intelligence. Liberty University’s master’s degree in Christian apologetics can give you in-depth training in the core areas of apologetics to prepare you for the challenges of ministry. Through an exploration of the Old and New Testaments, you can study complex and fascinating topics such as miracles, the history of interpretation, and the intersection between faith and reason.

One of the false accusations against becoming a Christian is that you must abandon reason and take a blind leap of faith. Your studies can train you in the use of logic in biblical apologetics and the nature of God, man, and the human mind. You can also learn to defend the resurrection of Jesus and the many miracles that are often denied by contemporary skeptics.

You can also gain a deep understanding of key issues in the Old Testament. You can study the history and archaeological developments in regard to the study of the Old Testament. Because our apologetics courses integrate a biblical worldview into the curriculum, you can be confident that your training is preparing you with sound doctrine. With an online Christian apologetics degree, you can strengthen your faith and prepare to defend your beliefs in your career and your ministry!

Featured Courses

• APOL 550 – Faith and Reason
• APOL 610 – Miracles
• THEO 525 – Systematic Theology I
• THEO 650 – Public Theology

Degree Information

• This program falls under the  John W. Rawlings School of Divinity .
• View the  Graduate Divinity Course Guides   (login required) .
• A  thesis track  is available for interested students.

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Degree?

Liberty University’s 100% online master of arts in apologetics was created to prepare students to enter Christian ministry. This online apologetics degree is an excellent next step to further your ministry and prepare for higher education in a doctoral program, should you choose to pursue one in the future.

The importance of apologetics is not only in teaching non-believers the Good News of Jesus Christ but in strengthening the Christian faith of those already in the church. Did you know that 75% of college students will walk away from their faith within 2 years of entering college?* These days more than ever, we need passionate people such as yourself to help fulfill the Great Commission.

We know that many of our students are currently serving in a ministry and need the flexibility and structure that an online degree offers. With a flexible, online master’s degree in Christian apologetics, you can fit your studies into your life and better understand the Scriptures to defend biblical teachings. Liberty University is proud to partner with you through an online degree as you prepare for a lifetime of effective ministry!

*The Village Baptist Church, at  Living Out Acts , (Viewed online July 2, 2021).

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• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree
• Potential Careers
• Associate pastor
• Campus minister
• Youth pastor

Degree Options for the Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics Program

Students have the ability to choose between the following track options:

The Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics (Non-Thesis) allows students to take some additional courses and a capstone, increasing flexibility for students looking to tailor their degree to their interests.

View the Degree Completion Plan .

The Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics (Thesis) allows students to complete a formal thesis project. This can help prepare some students who may seek to complete a doctoral program or other research in the realm of apologetics.

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

To continue our mission of providing affordable education, electronic textbooks are provided for many divinity courses* all for one convenient fee.

*Electronic textbooks are not provided for PACO courses or courses that fall under departments outside the School of Divinity.

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Our Online Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment  (waived for  qualifying  service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Unofficial transcripts can be used for acceptance purposes with the submission of a  Transcript Request Form .
• The  School of Divinity Questionnaire  (login required).
• Submission of  contact information  (login required) for 1 pastoral recommender.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official  International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your master’s degree after the last day of class for your bachelor’s degree.
• Complete a Bachelor’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official/unofficial transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show a minimum of 105 completed credit hours.
• If you are a current Liberty University student completing your undergraduate degree, you will need to submit a Degree/Certificate Completion Application .
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new master’s degree.

Dual Enrollment

Please see the Online Dual Enrollment page for information about starting graduate courses while finishing your bachelor’s degree.

Transcript Policies

Unofficial college transcript policy.

Unofficial transcripts combined with a Transcript Request Form can be used for admission. Official transcripts are required within 60 days of the admissions decision or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first, and will prevent enrollment into future terms until all official transcripts have been received.

Before sending unofficial college transcripts, please make sure they include the following:

• Your previous school’s name or logo printed on the document
• Cumulative GPA
• A list of completed courses and earned credit broken down by semester
• Degree and date conferred (if applicable)

Official College Transcript Policy

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

If the student uses unofficial transcripts with a Transcript Request Form to gain acceptance, all official transcripts must be received within 60 days of the admissions decision or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first. Failure to send all official transcripts within the 60-day period will prevent enrollment into future terms until all official transcripts have been received.

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

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Lynchburg, VA 24515

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees
• Current Department of Defense Employees

Available Benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $275 per credit hour for part-time graduate and postgraduate divinity courses
• Discounted divinity block rate – $2,475 per semester *
• Additional discount for veterans who service in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course) **
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

*Credits taken below 9 and above 15 credit hours per semester are charged at the part-time rate.

**Not applicable to certificates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is christian apologetics.

The word “Apologetics” comes from the Greek word apologia which means “speaking in defense.” The simple definition is that it is a branch of Christian theology that defends Christianity against objections. You can study and research historical data, philosophy, and use reason to defend the truth in Scripture. Individuals in Christian apologetics strive to find outside sources to reinforce the authenticity of the teachings found in the Bible.

Liberty University’s master’s in apologetics seeks to uphold this pursuit by ensuring that each online apologetics course has a rich foundation in biblical principles. You can explore hermeneutics, examine miracles within the Bible, and study the history of Christian apologetics. This is an opportunity for you to follow in the footsteps of great apologists such as G.K. Chesterton, C.S. Lewis, and Dr. Gary Habermas.

What are the benefits of pursuing a program like this?

You will receive a quality education from some of the world’s leading evangelical professors . Additionally, you will build upon core values, knowledge, and skills needed to serve the community as a spiritual leader

Inner Navigation

• What Will You Study?
• Specializations
• Tuition & Aid
• Admission Information

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