graduate coursework

Graduate Coursework

• Satisfactory progress
• Registration and Minimum course load per semester
• Taking Courses in Other Departments

Pre-Candidacy Research Credits

Phd coursework waiver policy, artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, computer systems, database systems, software engineering/programming languages/hci, scientific computing, algorithms and computation theory, visual and geometric computing.

• Special Topics Courses
• 798/798 Section Numbers

898/899 Section Numbers

1. registration and coursework policies, maintaining satisfactory progress.

To ensure continuous progress toward your degree, it’s imperative that you consistently meet the set expectations, commensurate with your other responsibilities. You must maintain continuous registration, whether through coursework or research credits. An overall B average must be sustained in your coursework, exclusive of CMSC 799 (Thesis Research) and CMSC 899 (Dissertation Research). Failure to comply may result in the termination of your graduate admission.

In instances where you receive a grade of I (incomplete) in any course, you must resolve this to a satisfactory grade before your degree can be conferred. If you earn a grade of D or F in a graduate course, you must retake the course and achieve a grade of C or higher to maintain your eligibility for degree completion.

You are responsible to keep yourself updated and comply with all deadlines and requirements for your graduate studies. The Graduate School announces exact dates for graduation, academic deadlines, registration deadlines, and other pertinent timelines for each academic year. The Computer Science Graduate Office announces these dates on a semesterly basis. Any changes in departmental policies will be communicated through an announcement to gradlist [-at-] cs [dot] umd [dot] edu . In the event of any circumstances that might hinder your ability to maintain graduate standing or fulfill degree requirements, it is your responsibility to inform the Computer Science Graduate Office in writing.  

Registration and Minimum course load per semester

All graduate students within the Computer Science department are required to register through Testudo. It is essential to notify your advisor of your course selections and any subsequent changes each semester. To request permission for restricted courses, please use the Graduate Office’s online permission form. Due to the high demand for Computer Science courses, we strongly advise you to register early.

Minimum course load

Course load is measured in units, which are defined as follows:

Audited courses do not generate graduate units. A part-time graduate student must complete at least 12 units per year. A full-time graduate student is normally expected to successfully complete a combination of courses that totals at least 48 units each semester (excluding summer sessions). Graduate assistants and International students must maintain full-time status.

Graduate Assistants are referred to either as Graduate Teaching Assistants (TAs) , Graduate Research Assistants (RAs) , or Graduate Administrative Assistants (AAs) .

• Full-time Graduate Assistant (GA): Working 20 hours per week equates to 24 units. To maintain full-time status, full-time GA should register for an additional 24 units.
• Half-time Graduate Assistant (GA):  Working 10 hours per week equates to 12 units. To maintain full-time status, half-time GA needs to register for 36 units.

Consult this reference to help calculate whether or not your coursework qualifies you as a full-time graduate student:

Taking Courses from Other Departments

Graduate courses from other departments can be used to satisfy the “elective” courses requirement (see section 2.3 in the policy manual ). Under specific circumstances, these courses might also qualify for MS/Ph.D. course requirements.

Qualifying Course Criteria:

• At least 75% of the course grade should be based on homework, programming tasks, research projects, and exams
• Written exams in these courses should form at least 30% of the final grade

For Elective Course Registration:

If you're looking to enroll in a non-CS course to satisfy the "Elective" graduate course requirement, please complete this form and provide the necessary details.

For MS/Ph.D. Qualifying Course Registration:

To have an external course evaluated for its relevance as a qualifying course within the MS/Ph.D. program, please provide the necessary details to the Grad Office using this form :

• Specific course details, including the syllabus and the instructor’s name
• Identifies the area in which you want the course to count
• A justification explaining the relevance and importance of this course to your studies
• Upload any relevant supporting documents

The Grad Office forwards the request to the appropriate field committee members and they will decide on the course’s suitability as a qualifying Ph.D./MS course for the indicated area or if it should be considered as an elective.

Note: Please ensure your submission is well in advance of the semester in which you plan to undertake the course

Pre-candidacy research credits (CMSC898) are used to maintain registration or full-time status when regular coursework isn’t sufficient. These credits are particularly relevant in scenarios where you are engaged in research activities with your advisor but have not yet advanced to candidacy. In such cases, you should register for CMSC 898 to appropriately account for your research efforts.

CMSC898 section number is linked to the professor under whom you are conducting your research. A listing of section numbers can be found in  898/899/799/798 Section Numbers . 

In the Computer Science graduate program, advancing to candidacy requires students to complete six qualifying courses at the 600–800 level across four different areas with a minimum of four A's and two B's, two additional elective courses with grades of B or higher, and a compulsory one-credit course, "How to Conduct Great Research." (For detailed information, refer to section 2.3, Pre-candidacy Requirements , in the Policy Manual.)

While approved course waivers can reduce the total number of courses you need to take, they do not reduce the requirement to earn a minimum of four A's at UMD, a requirement that ensures mastery of the subject matter.

Criteria for Waivers

• The previous course must align closely with a UMD-qualifying course in terms of exams, graduate-level content, and syllabus similarity
• Waivers must be approved by the relevant field committee

 Please Note:

• A maximum of 3 courses can be waived. Please only submit 3 requests at a time. If some requests are denied, additional ones may be submitted
• The waiver process does not affect the requirement to achieve four A’s in UMD-taken courses. Approved waivers are only applicable for meeting the requirement of obtaining two 'B' grades in the qualifying courses or elective courses
• Courses taken for undergraduate credit, or those no longer offered at UMD, or non-CS courses, are ineligible for waivers
• 400-level courses do not qualify for Ph.D. credit. If a course is evaluated and classified at the 400 level, it cannot be applied to your Ph.D. requirements. However, if you intend to apply a 400-level equivalent course to your MS degree, you must adhere to the Graduate School's policy for transferring courses into your MS degree, providing your course meets the criteria for acceptable transfer credit

Submission Process:

• Submit waiver requests through this form to the relevant field committee chair(s).
• For consideration in your Spring semester coursework, submit waiver requests by October 1st
• For consideration in your Fall semester coursework, submit waiver requests by March 1st
• Clearly link the course you're seeking to waive to the equivalent UMD course for comparison purposes.

2. Course Listings

All core courses (600-700 level) listed under 'Areas and Courses' are qualifying courses, and their status is generally stable. Special Topics Courses will have their qualifying status updated each semester.

Areas and Courses

The graduate program coursework is organized into areas, each with associated faculty and courses. There are currently eight areas:

Below are the courses by area:

Some courses may appear in more than one area. However, you cannot use a particular course to satisfy more than one area's requirement.

It is expected that courses at the 600-800 level will be offered on a rotating basis, roughly every three or four semesters.

In addition to the courses listed above, special topics courses are offered, under the course numbers CMSC 818, 828, 838, etc.

MS/PhD Status of Special Topics Courses

• Fall 2015 and later - whether it is MS/PhD qualifying  and area
• [Spring 2015 and earlier: MS or PhD qualifying courses must base their grades primarily on exams (and not on paper readings, presentations, etc).  An MS comp must be based entirely on exams (and not projects, homeworks, term papers, etc). It can be one or more of the regular exams in the course (e.g., final, midterm + final), regular exams augmented with additional questions, a separate exam, or any combination.]
• Instructors offering such courses should email the relevant information to the grad office well before the start of the semester.
• Information for a semester is finalized when the semester starts.
• If a special topics course being offered is not listed here, then it does not count as MS/PhD qualifying or toward MS comps.
• CMSC673: Capstone in Machine Learning  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC818B: Advanced Topics in Computer Systems; Decision-Making for Robotics  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC818I: Advanced Topics in Computer Systems; Large Language Models, Security, and Privacy  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC818J: Advanced Topics in Computer Systems; Domain Specific Architecture  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC818L: Advanced Topics in Computer Systems; Fantastic Zero-Knowledge Proofs and How to Use Them  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC828J: Advanced Topics in Information Processing; Common-sense Reasoning and Natural Language Understanding  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC828N: Advanced Topics in Information Processing; Computational Audition  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC828P: Advanced Topics in Information Processing; AI/ML at Scale  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC838N: Advanced Topics in Programming Languages; Programming Languages and Computer Architecture  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI
• CMSC839A: Advanced Topics in Human-Computer Interaction; Embodied Media Design  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI
• CMSC839C: Advanced Topics in Human-Computer Interaction; Governing Algorithms & Algorithmic Governance  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC839E: Advanced Topics in Human-Computer Interaction; Uncertainty Communication for Decision-Making  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI
• CMSC848B: Selected Topics in Information Processing; Computational Imaging  MS/PhD qualifying in Visual and Geometric Computing
• CMSC848K: Selected Topics in Information Processing; Multimodal Foundation Models  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC858A: Advanced Topics in Theory of Computing; Concentration Inequalities for Randomized Algorithms and Machine Learning  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence  MS/PhD qualifying in Algorithms and Computation Theory

Spring 2024

• CMSC818G: Information-Centric Design of Systems  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC818R: Software Security via Program Analysis  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC828A: Fantastic Machine Learning Paradigms and Where to use Them  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC828J: Common-sense Reasoning and Natural Language Understanding  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC838C: Advances in XR  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI  MS/PhD qualifying in Visual and Geometric Computing
• CMSC838L: Programming Languages and Computer Architecture  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI
• CMSC839A: Embodied Media Design  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI
• CMSC848B: Computational Imaging  MS/PhD qualifying in Visual and Geometric Computing
• CMSC848G: SELECTED TOPICS IN ML  MS/PhD qualifying in Bioinformatics
• CMSC848J: Cognitive Robotics  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC858G: Quantum Error Correction and Fault-Tolerance  MS/PhD qualifying in Algorithms and Computation Theory
• CMSC858N: Scalable Parallel Algorithms and Data Structures  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC858O: The Foundation of End-to-End Quantum Applications  MS/PhD qualifying in Algorithms and Computation Theory
• CMSC818B: Decision-Making for Robotics  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC818E: Distributed And Cloud-Based Storage Systems  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC818F: Cryptography and Hostile Governments  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC818I: Large Language Models, Security, and Privacy  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC818J: Domain Specific Architectures  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC818Q: Cloud Networking and Computing  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC828C: Statistical Pattern Recognition  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC828I: Visual Learning & Recognition  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence  MS/PhD qualifying in Visual and Geometric Computing
• CMSC829A: Algorithmic Evolutionary Biology  MS/PhD qualifying in Bioinformatics
• CMSC838B: Differentiable Programming  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI
• CMSC848F: 3D Vision  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC848I: Trustworthy Machine Learning  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC848Q: How and Why Artificial Intelligence Answers Questions  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC858J: Network design Foundations  MS/PhD qualifying in Algorithms and Computation Theory
• CMSC858V: Quantum Control, Metrology, and Error Mitigation for Quantum Algorithm Deployment  MS/PhD qualifying in Algorithms and Computation Theory
• CMSC878B: Fast Multipole Methods: Fundamentals and Applications  MS/PhD qualifying in Scientific Computing

Spring 2023

• CMSC818L: Fantastic Zero-Knowledge Proofs and How to Use Them  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC828O: Computational and Mathematical Analysis of Networks Across Scales  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC828T: Sorting in Space and Words and Foundations of Multidimensional and Metric Data Structures  MS/PhD qualifying in Database Systems  MS/PhD qualifying in Visual and Geometric Computing
• CMSC838D: Embodied Media Design  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI
• CMSC838E: Compiler Construction  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI
• CMSC848D: Explainable Natural Language Processing  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC848E: Machine Learning for Data Management Systems  MS/PhD qualifying in Database Systems
• CMSC858C: Randomized Algorithms  MS/PhD qualifying in Algorithms and Computation Theory
• CMSC858L: Quantum Complexity  MS/PhD qualifying in Algorithms and Computation Theory
• CMSC858N: Scalable Parallel Algorithms and Data Structures  MS/PhD qualifying in Algorithms and Computation Theory
• CMSC858Z: Modern Discrete Probability  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC818X: Introduction to Parallel Computing  MS/PhD qualifying in Computer Systems
• CMSC828J: Common-sense Reasoning and Natural Language Understanding  Not MS/PhD qualifying
• CMSC828V: Numerical Methods for Data Science and Machine Learning  MS/PhD qualifying in Scientific Computing
• CMSC828W: Foundations of Deep Learning  MS/PhD qualifying in Artificial Intelligence
• CMSC838X: Personal Health Informatics & Visualization  MS/PhD qualifying in Software Engineering/Programming Languages/HCI

798/799 Section Numbers

MS students should register for section numbers designated as "PJ" under their advisor for the following courses. Full list can be viewed  here .

• CMSC798: Non-thesis research
• CMSC799: Thesis research

Sections for the following independent research courses (CMSC898, 899) are by faculty member.

• CMSC898 - Pre-Candidacy Research
• CMSC899 - Doctoral Dissertation Research

It is assumed students have already received faculty approval for registering for their section. For CM899, PhD students who have advanced to candidacy will automatically be registered each Fall and Spring by the registrar if the student has advanced by end of schedule adjustment for that semester. PhD students graduating in summer would need to register for 1 credit of CMSC899 to meet the requirement of being registered the semester of graduation.

Off-campus Internship/Individual Study (I1** or I2**):  Students who are off-campus or on internship can register for "I" sections in summer (replacing the zero in the course number with the letter "I"). These sections are intended for when the student is NOT required to come to campus. All coursework is off-site or there are no on-campus meetings with the advisor. Students will be charged the off-campus mandatory student services fee if they are enrolled in this type of section.

What is a Graduate Degree?

For those considering graduate school , it’s important to take the time to understand what an advanced degree program entails. Read on to learn about the different types of graduate programs, the time commitment, cost, and enrollment conditions required, and what students should expect at this level of advanced study.

An undergraduate degree —either a bachelor’s or associate degree—is considered a baseline educational requirement in many professions. As such, the pursuit of this degree has become commonplace among high school graduates. As of 2018, 69 percent of students chose to complete their undergraduate degree immediately after earning their high school diploma.

A graduate degree —including master’s degrees , doctorates , and PhDs —provides an advanced understanding of a specific topic or field, and demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning that many employers value. Those who choose to enroll in graduate school often do so with a series of focused, career-oriented goals in mind, which sets the stage for a substantially different type of learning environment than one might experience during an undergraduate career.

Interested in earning an advanced degree?

Explore Northeastern’s 200+ programs to find the one that will best help you achieve your goals.

FIND YOUR PROGRAM

Types of Graduate Degrees

Students embarking on graduate school should begin by determining if an academic or professional degree is right for them.

Students who desire a career in a specific field (such as law, pharmaceuticals, medicine, or education) may opt to pursue a professional degree . These programs emphasize hands-on learning and often require students to obtain substantial real-world experience prior to graduation.

Academic (or research) degrees align with a single, specific area of study or field. Students in pursuit of these degrees are required to develop an in-depth understanding of their subject area and complete a thesis or capstone project to demonstrate their knowledge.

Learn More: Professional Degree Vs. Academic Degree: What’s the Difference?  

Master’s Degree

Although master’s degrees  may be the most common form of graduate study, there are various professional and academic graduate-level degrees that students should consider. Some of the most common include:

• Master of Arts Degree (MA): An MA is a type of academic master’s degree that correlates most directly with humanities-based subject areas such as communications, teaching, languages, and more. Classes in these programs are primarily discussion-based and might require fieldwork, a thesis, or a capstone project prior to graduation. Some common MA programs include Homeland Security , English , and Elementary Education .
• Master of Science Degree (MS) : An MS is another type of academic master’s degree which typically correlates with advanced study in fields that relate to science and mathematics. Courses in these programs often require extensive lab work or research and culminate with thesis or capstone projects, as well. Some common MS programs include Cybersecurity , Corporate & Organizational Communication , Leadership , and Project Management . 
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA): An MFA is a professional degree for artists in fields such as graphic design, music, theater, film, and more. Alongside a practical and abstract exploration of their art, graduates of these programs often receive the credentials necessary to teach at the undergraduate level. Some common MFA programs include Information Design & Visualization , Creative Writing, and Acting.
• Master of Professional Studies (MPS) : An MPS is an interdisciplinary degree focused on a single area of professional study. Unlike MA or MS degrees, these programs are typically more hands-on in nature and require an internship, work-study, or co-op experience prior to graduation. Some common MPS programs include Analytics , Informatics , and Digital Media .

Professional Doctorate

A professional doctorate is focused on the advanced practice of knowledge and skills, making it a degree for those who are more professionally oriented. While these programs also help to develop research skills, the main focus is to apply knowledge to industry to solve new and emerging problems.

• Juris Doctor (JD): This degree provides students with the practical skills and expansive knowledge needed to practice law in America. While JD programs share some commonalities with other graduate-level law degrees, such as a Master of Legal Studies or a Master of Laws , there are key differences between the three.
• Doctor of Education (EdD): This is another professional doctorate degree not to be confused with a PhD in Education . This type of program is for educators and professionals who want to direct and implement change within their organizations. These degrees are designed to prepare students to become leaders in their communities.
• Doctor of Medicine (MD): Students hoping to pursue a career in medicine or surgery pursue this professional doctorate degree.
• Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) : Individuals pursuing a career in the pharmaceutical industry must obtain a PharmD. These programs include components of research, teaching, and clinical practice.

Learn More: Why Earn a Professional Doctoral Degree?

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD is a postgraduate doctoral degree based on extensive research in a given field. Students can earn a PhD in areas such as technology, humanities, social sciences, and more. Individuals who complete their PhDs often pursue a career in academia, though some may continue on to complete similar research for the remainder of their career. Some common PhD programs include Counseling Psychology , Bioengineering , and Pharmacology . PhDs are not to be confused with professional/clinical doctorates , which are designed to provide students with the practical skills needed to excel in their career. 

How Long Does it Take to Earn a Graduate Degree

The timeline for completion of a graduate degree will vary depending on three factors:

• The type of degree you pursue.
• Your desired subject area.
• The specific institution at which you are studying. 

On average, however, those enrolled in a master’s program full-time will likely complete their degree within one-and-a-half to three years. Individuals who pursue their master’s degree part-time might take longer than three years to complete it, depending on how many credits they enroll in each semester.

Most PhD and professional doctoral candidates will finish their degrees in five to six years, though the time commitment may vary depending on the subject area. Some more intensive degree programs, like an MD, can take up to eight years to complete.

Learn More: How Long Does It Take to Earn a Master’s Degree?

Graduate Degree Requirements

Requirements for different graduate programs vary greatly depending on the subject, institution, and whether or not it is a culminating degree. The most common requirement, however, is an undergraduate degree, as this acts as a base for advanced learning.

Other application requirements for specific graduate programs might include:

• A statement of purpose
• Your educational transcripts
• A portfolio of your work
• Professional/academic recommendations
• Any additional written assignments

You may also need to take and submit your scores for a subject-specific exam (e.g. LSAT, MCAT, etc.) or for the general Graduate Record Examination (GRE) , which is a requirement for many graduate programs globally.

The Cost of A Graduate Degree

The cost of a graduate degree will also vary greatly depending on what program and what institution you are considering. Yet, many people make incorrect assumptions about the price of graduate school based on their knowledge of undergraduate costs.

“Many of us have in our heads the sticker price of $30,000 to $40,000 per year for undergraduate education,” Sean Gallagher , executive director of the Center for the Future of Higher Education and Talent Strategy at Northeastern told U.S. News & Report in 2017. “So we say, ‘OK, it’s two years for a graduate degree, so it’s going to cost me $70,000 to $80,000 or more.’ And while there are certainly programs at that price point, there are many programs where you can get the entire graduate degree for between $20,000 and $40,000.”

No matter the program, graduate school will be both an educational and financial investment in your career. As such, institutions like Northeastern have adopted a variety of financial aid options for students to help hedge the cost of graduate studies. Students can utilize scholarships, grants, and even tuition reimbursement programs through their employers to help pay for their advanced education.

Learn More: Paying for Grad School: Where and How to Start

5 Characteristics of a Strong Graduate Program

#1) flexible learning options.

In most universities, graduate programs are designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals and are thus offered in a variety of exceedingly flexible formats.

Firstly, students at the graduate level can choose to enroll in either a part-time or full-time capacity. A part-time graduate program offers working professionals the opportunity to take on only as many classes as they can handle per semester, and work toward finishing their degree at their own speed. Full-time students, on the other hand, must be enrolled in a specific number of credit hours per semester as determined by the university, and will work toward completing their program in a linear manner. At Northeastern, for example, full-time students must be enrolled in nine quarter hours of graduate credits per semester.

Universities like Northeastern also offer a variety of graduate programs in online , on-ground, and hybrid formats to best fit the needs of any given students. Taking online or hybrid courses is an effective way for students who are already working in their field to balance their coursework with their other professional commitments, as well.

For those who aren’t ready to commit to an entire graduate program, some universities also offer graduate certificates in many in-demand areas of study. Certificate programs provide either a condensed understanding of basic advanced principles as they relate to an area of study, or a very niche look at a specific aspect of the subject. Though the amount of knowledge attained in a certificate program is vastly less than that of a full graduate degree, some prefer this condensed format of study for its reduced cost and shorter time commitment.

#2) A Focused Curriculum 

By the time a student reaches graduate school, they are likely no longer in the exploring phase of their education. Instead, these students have often experienced life as a working professional, determined which area of study best aligns with their passions, and have made the educated decision to become an expert on that topic through the pursuit of a graduate degree.

For this reason, many graduate programs offer students a far more unified educational experience than at the undergraduate level. Often, this will be reflected in a common curriculum that all students within a single program must follow. While they may still be able to pick the specific topics that most interest them off this predetermined list of classes, each course will relate back to their base area of study. This is done in an effort to give students a much more in-depth exploration of that specific topic rather than a surface-level understanding of many, unrelated ones.

Students in graduate school still have the opportunity to customize their education to best fit their needs, however. In fact, programs like those at Northeastern recognize that one of the most impactful offerings they can give their students is the chance to declare a concentration within their degree and tailor their studies in a way that aligns with their professional aspirations.

#3) Opportunities for Hands-On Learning

Northeastern University is known for its emphasis on experiential learning at all phases of a student’s educational journey, offering opportunities for real-world, hands-on learning through internships, work-study, co-ops, and more. There are also a variety of graduate-specific experiential learning opportunities for students, such as Northeastern’s Experiential Network (XN) initiative.

A Closer Look: Northeastern’s XN initiative offers students the opportunity to participate in six-week-long, virtual projects for active organizations within the university’s expansive network. These projects align with students’ academic work, allowing them to apply what they learn in the classroom to these real-world scenarios. Following the format of gig-economy work experiences, students spend 30-40 hours on each project and, in that time, practice making decisions and completing work that will have a genuine impact on these organizations’ success.

In general, graduate degrees tend to be research- or capstone-oriented in nature, meaning that, depending on a student’s area of study, they will be frequently honing their practical abilities alongside their theoretical skills. Graduate programs emphasize this type of learning in an effort to develop well-rounded professionals in each field. These hands-on learning opportunities also offer students unparalleled exposure to different facets of their industry—as well as different types of workplaces—which can then be used to help them make an educated employment decision after graduation.

#4) An Industry-Aligned Network

Students have a unique advantage when it comes to networking in grad school . Between the opportunities to make connections in the classroom, at university-hosted events, and even in the professional world through hands-on learning experiences, these students are in the ideal setting to build their network.

Connecting with Classmates

Your classmates in grad school will likely be equally as driven and passionate about the exact same area of study as you are. You will also have the opportunity to grow together throughout your time in the program, resulting in a slew of common experiences and relationships that will help to keep you connected with and looking out for one another throughout your career. Although they may start out as your classmates, these individuals have the potential to become powerful players in the professional industry post-graduation, as well.

Connecting with Professors

Smaller class sizes and a more collaborative learning environment allow students to develop more personal connections with their professors during grad school than in their undergraduate studies. These relationships can be some of the most important in regards to your career, as professors at top universities like Northeastern are industry leaders and have connections that can be used to make introductions or open doors to potential employment opportunities after graduation.

Connecting with Industry Professionals

Given the emphasis on hands-on learning in grad school, students have the chance to develop their professional networks in their region and with organizations that they may be able to work with post-graduation. Having these types of industry-aligned connections is vital in today’s competitive job market, especially since a connection that has worked with you first-hand in a professional environment can speak to your qualifications in a far more concrete and impactful way than those who are only able to speak to your abilities abstractly.

Students who take the time to develop their professional network while in graduate school — whether online or on-ground —have the potential to see the positive impact of those connections for the remainder of their professional career.

#5) Substantial Impact on Your Career 

Many students pursue graduate degrees to advance their careers. Whether that means getting a promotion, increasing their current salary, or even transitioning fields, these students are looking to make a positive change by showing employers the extent of their knowledge, network, and exposure to experiential learning.

While these goals are often achieved during the pursuit of a graduate degree, students’ careers can be impacted by graduate study in more ways than one. The overall career outlook for graduate degree holders, for instance, is incredibly positive compared to those with only a bachelor’s or associate degree.

For example, the current jobless rate for individuals with a master’s degree or higher is 12.5 percent lower than those who only hold a bachelor’s degree. Similarly, in regard to salary, those with a graduate degree earn 28 percent more than those with just an undergraduate degree on average. These individuals will also make over a million dollars more than those with just a high school diploma in their lifetime.

What’s more, graduates of advanced degree programs are some of the most in-demand within organizations today. When it comes to applying for a new role, 61 percent of employers are finding that the skills required for their open positions have evolved to require a higher education among applicants. By 2022, it is also expected that 18 percent of all jobs will require a graduate degree. Earning an advanced degree will help improve your skills and demonstrate your commitment to career development—two of the best ways to stand out in today’s competitive job market .

Explore Your Options at Northeastern

Ready to take the leap? Consider advancing your career with a graduate degree from Northeastern, a top-40 university . Evaluate the personal and professional benefits of a graduate degree, then explore Northeastern’s 200+ master’s , doctorate , and certificate programs to find the one that best aligns with your career goals.

Browse the Grad School Tips & Advice category of the Northeastern Graduate blog for more content like this from Northeastern University Graduate Programs .

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Did you know.

Advanced degree holders earn a salary an average 25% higher than bachelor's degree holders. (Economic Policy Institute, 2021)

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The broad scope and high quality of MIT's graduate education have made it a global leader. The most important factor in the effectiveness of graduate programs at MIT is the quality of the faculty. MIT is proud of its nationally and internationally recognized faculty of scholars and academic leaders, who are also effective teachers and research collaborators.

More than a third of MIT graduate students have international citizenship. The Institute has made significant efforts, with some success, to increase the numbers of underrepresented and women students attending its graduate programs. This representation of students from diverse backgrounds contributes greatly to the richness of the MIT community and to the excellence of its graduate academic programs.

Graduate education at MIT places special emphasis on the relevance of science and technology to the complex problems of society. Such problems frequently require an interdisciplinary approach involving expertise in several different departments.

Extensive resources for graduate study have developed naturally at MIT from a long tradition of emphasis on contributions to new knowledge. The wealth and diversity of teaching and research resources are described in the school and departmental sections.

Although most graduate students find their interests served by programs available within a single department, others choose to work in interdisciplinary fields (described in the sections on Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs  and Research and Study ), which may reach into two or more departments and involve work in any of MIT's laboratories and centers.

An additional resource for graduate study is cross-registration in programs with Harvard University and Wellesley College, and joint degree programs with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Limited study opportunities are also available at Boston University, Brandeis University, Tufts University, and at local institutions through the Consortium for Graduate Studies in Gender, Culture, Women, and Sexuality.

Graduate students are encouraged to use MIT's extensive athletic facilities. Teams comprised of both undergraduate and graduate students participate in intercollegiate competitions and the intramural athletic program.

Graduate students also participate in a wide array of social activities at MIT, and take advantage of the numerous cultural and intellectual opportunities in the Boston area, including free admission to the Boston Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Science. A more detailed description of campus activities can be found in the section on Campus Life.

Independent Activities Period

Independent Activities Period (IAP)  is a four-week period in January during which faculty and students are freed from the rigors of regularly scheduled classes for flexible teaching and learning and for independent study and research. IAP is part of the academic program of the Institute—the "1" month in MIT's "4-1-4" academic calendar. Students are encouraged to explore the educational resources of the Institute by taking specially designed subjects, arranging individual projects with faculty members, or organizing and participating in IAP activities. They may also pursue interests independently either on or off campus.

Departmental programs may require students to complete a subject (of no more than 12 units) during one IAP.

More than 600 activities are offered each year on a wide range of topics, both academic and nonacademic. In addition, most departments offer "special subjects," for which students can arrange credit for individual work.

Many IAP activities, both credit and noncredit, are organized each fall. Noncredit activities are advertised, beginning in early November, on the MIT Events Calendar . Information on credit activities is available, beginning in early December, on the Subject Listing & Schedule website.

Organizing Activities

Nonacademic activities may be organized or attended by members of the MIT community: faculty, students, and employees. Tips on organizing an IAP activity are available on the IAP website. Organizers may approach MIT departments and organizations to help defray expenses.

Students find organizing IAP activities a rewarding challenge. For many, it is their first opportunity to develop and teach a program from their own ideas. In doing so, they acquire organizational and leadership skills that prove invaluable to their careers.

Tuition, Housing, and Meals

Regular students paying full tuition in either the fall or spring term do not have to pay additional tuition or housing fees to the Institute during IAP. Students who have not been charged full tuition in either the fall or spring term are subject to additional tuition charges and should consult the Registrar's Office, Room 5-117, 617-258-6409. MIT Dining provides food service options through retail, house dining, and catering services throughout the entire academic year, including IAP. Please visit the Dining website in early December to learn more about dining options during IAP .

Academic Credit and Grades

Students should follow directions to register for subjects  on the Registrar's Office website. In addition to regular subjects, students may make arrangements to earn credit for independent work under faculty supervision. No student may earn more than 12 units of credit during IAP. Credits received by first-year undergraduate students during IAP are not counted toward their credit limits for fall or spring term.

All credit-bearing subjects are graded according to the grading rules approved for that subject number. A subject can be graded P/D/F only if it has been approved with P/D/F grading. Similarly, the number of units awarded must be as specified for that subject. However, faculty sometimes teach new classes under special subject numbers for which credit units are arranged.

For students to receive credit for work done in IAP, instructors must submit grades to the Registrar's Office by the deadline given in the academic calendar. If a grade is received after the Add Date of the succeeding term and the student did not register in the subject during IAP, the student must petition to receive credit. IAP credit will not be given if the grade is received after the end of the succeeding spring term.

Students may view their IAP grades on WebSIS shortly after the start of the spring term. Students who do not receive grades when expected should check promptly with their instructors or the Registrar's Office to ensure the grades are submitted and recorded.

Special Students

Applications for special student status solely for IAP will not be accepted. Special students admitted to the fall or spring term must consult the Admissions Office concerning their status during IAP; they do not automatically have IAP privileges. If the special student has paid full tuition during the fall term or is admitted to do so in the spring, there will not be an additional tuition charge for IAP. If the student has not been paying full tuition, a charge for the IAP units will be added to either the fall or spring term up to a maximum of full tuition for the term.

Office of Graduate Education

The Institute has a single faculty that is responsible for both undergraduate and graduate instruction. The administration of graduate education rests with the president, provost, chancellor, vice chancellor, senior associate dean for graduate education, and the Committee on Graduate Programs (a standing committee of the Faculty).

The mission of the Office of Graduate Education (OGE) is to provide Institute-wide support and service to students, faculty, and staff to make graduate education at MIT empowering, exciting, holistic, and transformative. The senior associate dean for graduate education directs the office.

Each department exercises a large measure of autonomy for its graduate programs, under general guidelines established for the Institute as a whole. Each department has a departmental committee on graduate students, including one or more graduate registration officers, to administer department and Institute graduate procedures.

More detailed information about the organization, rules, regulations, and procedures of graduate education is given in Graduate Policies and Procedures .

Career Advising and Professional Development helps students make informed decisions about career goals and find opportunities related to their professional objectives. CAPD provides programming and one-on-one advising specifically for graduate students and supports those interested in the faculty path as well as careers beyond academia. As a complement to academic coursework and research, CAPD offers workshops and programming on MIT’s  professional development competencies : career advancement, communication, interpersonal skills, personal development, leadership and mentoring, social responsibility, and teaching. Graduate students are encouraged to visit the office during their first year to learn what career resources are available. Many services can be accessed  via Handshake , and the office can be reached by email or by phone at  617-715-5329 .  

See also the Career Advising and Professional Development description under Undergraduate Education.

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Syracuse University Online Master’s Programs

Syracuse University’s mission is to champion a future that respects and reflects the contributions of all. That future needs scholars, innovators and creative problem-solvers from all backgrounds and walks of life who, instead of avoiding complex challenges, face them head-on.

If you’re ready to be empowered to reach your full potential, you’re ready to join our Orange community.

Request Information

Help us get to know you better by filling out the brief form below. A member of our community will be in touch soon to connect and we will email you with information about the program.

World-Class Programs

Syracuse University is proud to continue this mission through world-class online master’s programs in business, communications, technology, public administration and social work delivered in a flexible and collaborative online format. Choose your program of interest to learn more.

The Martin J. Whitman School of Management

Master of Business Administration (MBA) M.S. in Professional Accounting M.S. in Business Analytics M.S. in Entrepreneurship M.S. in Supply Chain Management

S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

M.S. in Communications M.S. in Communications Management

College of Engineering and Computer Science

M.S. in Computer Science M.S. in Computer Engineering M.S. in Cybersecurity

School of Information Studies (iSchool)

M.S. in Applied Data Science M.S. in Information Systems Executive Program M.S. in Library and Information Science M.S. in Library and Information Science: School Media

Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

Executive Master of Public Administration

School of Social Work at Falk College

Master of Social Work (MSW) Advanced Standing Master of Social Work (MSW)

Your Degree. Your Experience.

Your master’s program is more than a degree, it’s an experience on which you will build your entire career. Syracuse University’s online master’s programs are designed with you, the student, in mind.

Our programs are developed based on research about how online students actually learn best and how to ensure success in a digital environment. All programs are built around a framework that includes:

Online Coursework

Instead of traditional lectures, you complete your coursework in between live class sessions. All coursework is designed by Syracuse University faculty.

Live Classes That Promote Collaboration

You will attend small and intimate live classes that encourage you to debate topics and discuss current trends and concepts with classmates and faculty.

Application of Skills in Real Time

If you’re taking classes while you continue to work, you can directly apply new skills gained in the classroom to your job in real time and increase your impact at your organization.

Fully Connected to Syracuse University

“Online” does not mean “apart.” Even though classes are online, you will still feel connected to our faculty and each and every classmate you meet along the way.

Accessible and Connected Faculty

In and outside of the classroom, our professors will support your learning and growth throughout the program and into your career. In addition to faculty advising, you will have access to your professors for one-on-one discussion in the digital campus.

Diverse and Driven Peers

As an online student, you will collaborate regularly with talented, ambitious peers living and working around the world. Your classmates will bring their diverse voices and viewpoints to classroom discussions and study groups, enriching your learning experience and expanding your worldview.

Explore Which Program Is Right for You

To learn more about how each program can give you an advantage, explore our online programs.

How We Bring Syracuse University to You

Our online learning environment isn’t a platform—it’s a fully intuitive and engaging digital campus that’s designed with students like you in mind. What’s the difference? Our digital campus offers you all the advantages of our university campus—and even some extras—no matter where you live, work or travel.

Your Coursework: Designed for Focused Engagement

While our coursework is engaging—think interactive modules, video lectures led by seasoned industry experts and contemporary case studies—the content covered is challenging. We’ve thoughtfully designed a seamless learning experience, so you can focus on the task at hand without distraction.

Your Classes: Live and Global

Gain the connections and perspectives you need to drive your career forward. Hosted live in a Zoom classroom, online classes serve as a forum to discuss and analyze each week’s coursework, enabling you to absorb the material from every angle.

Your Dashboard: Connection With a Click

We want our online students to focus on the work that matters, so we created a one-stop, one-click dashboard that offers easy access to upcoming classes, coursework and support teams.

Learning for Your Life

We’ve engineered an online study environment that is customizable to your learning styles. With features like dark mode, searchable video transcripts and adjustable video speed, you can personalize your experience. And our streaming capability lets you cast your coursework right onto your TV.

Dark mode for reduced eye strain

Searchable content

Adjustable video speed

Stream to your TV

As mobile as you are.

Our entire digital campus is accessible through a full-service mobile app. That means you can review coursework or attend classes from anywhere with internet access. And when you’re offline? Just download content to your device to complete assignments in offline mode. Next time you connect to the internet, the app will sync your progress.

Discover Our Flexible Online Programs

Learn more about how you can earn your master’s degree on your own schedule by exploring our online programs today.

Student-First Services

Your success is what drives us forward. As a Syracuse University online student, you will have access to a range of support and services throughout your program, and we will be with you every step toward graduation—and even after.

Admissions and Application

Our admissions counselors are available to help you throughout the application process. Whether you have questions about the program, the online experience or financial aid, your dedicated admissions counselor will be standing by to help.

Advising and Support

Your student success advisor will be with you throughout your program, ensuring your pacing toward graduation and a successful transition to student life—all while supporting your interests.

Career Counseling

Syracuse University offers services and counselors to help you prepare for your career after grad school. Our career services team will help you fine-tune your resume and practice your interview skills.

Supporting Military Students

Since 1947, Syracuse University has built a strong connection with our military and veteran community by supporting a wide variety of VA benefits, participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program and creating our National Veterans Resource Center—a first-of-its-kind facility in the U.S. For more information on available resources for military students, visit our  military resources page .

Orange Network

All Syracuse University graduates join a strong, global Orange alumni network of 260,000+ professionals. Our high-impact alumni are dedicated to supporting one another, and they host online networking events all over the world. Individual schools and programs also have robust student and alumni groups.

We’re excited for you to start your journey, and we want to learn about your interest in becoming an online student at Syracuse University. Submit the request information form and one of our dedicated admissions counselors will contact you.

/images/cornell/logo35pt_cornell_white.svg" alt="graduate coursework"> Cornell University --> Graduate School

Graduate school degrees.

The Graduate School administers research and professional degrees in more than 80 different fields of study, with opportunities for further exploration in 18 minor (non-degree granting) fields. The Graduate School provides an umbrella of support and resource for graduate students enrolled in these degrees, including admissions and funding support systems and data reporting tools.

Additionally, there are many other advanced degrees administered by colleges and schools at Cornell University that are not part of the Graduate School’s support system and, instead, provide these services within their specific colleges and/or programs. 

Graduate School Research Degrees 

These programs focus on the development of new knowledge through original research and scholarship. Our master’s degree programs are designed for those who wish to obtain further education in a selected field and to develop their ability for critical inquiry, research and teaching. Doctoral programs are designed for individuals who demonstrate the potential to perform original research and scholarship, with a view to various careers requiring a terminal degree, including those in research and teaching. 

• M.A.  (Master of Arts)
• M.S.  (Master of Science)
• M.A./Ph.D.  or  M.S./Ph.D.  (joint Master’s/Doctor of Philosophy)
• M.F.A.  (Master of Fine Arts), Creative Writing
• D.M.A.  (Doctor of Musical Arts) , typically 3 or more years
• J.S.D.  (Doctor of Science of Law)
• Ph.D.  (Doctor of Philosophy)

Graduate School Professional Degrees

In professional degrees, the focus is on projects and coursework. Professional degrees prepare students to practice their profession at an advanced level or to teach the subject matter of their profession. 

• M.F.S. (Master of Food Science) , 1 year
• M.I.L.R.  (Master of Industrial and Labor Relations) , 2 years
• M.L.A.  (Master of Landscape Architecture) , 3 years
• M.P.H  (Master of Public Health) , 1-2 years; part-time option
• Animal Science
• Biological and Environmental Engineering
• Integrative Plant Science
• Global Development
• Landscape Architecture
• Natural Resources and the Environment
• Applied Statistics
• Fiber Science & Apparel Design
• Human Resources (Online)
• ​ Information Science
• Veterinary Medical Sciences , 12 months
• M.R.P.  (Master of Regional Planning) , 2 years

See the fields of study catalog for more information on degree programs offered through the Graduate School. 

Why should you consider Cornell?

Center for Teaching Innovation

Graduate coursework in higher education, what graduate coursework in higher education is available.

The below graduate coursework offerings are seven-week, one-credit courses. In Spring 2023, graduate coursework in higher education includes ALS 6015: The Practice of Teaching in Higher Education and ALS 6016: Assessment in Higher Education.  

The Practice of Teaching in Higher Education (ALS 6015)

For the foreseeable future, higher education faces grand challenges that will call upon those in faculty positions to demonstrate a commitment to innovation, diversity, evidence-based teaching, assessment of student learning, and educational technology. This seven week, one-credit course addresses selected aspects of these challenges to better prepare current and future instructors (i.e., graduate students, teaching assistants, and post-doctoral fellows) in higher education. Course activities and assignments will allow for the exploration of learning theory, as well as the practical application of instructional design, technology, and assessment frameworks. 

Assessment in Higher Education (ALS 6016)

The assessment of student learning is a critical skill set for faculty at U.S. colleges and universities. Too often, faculty members have little to no exposure to this important topic until they begin their academic teaching careers. This seven-week, one-credit course—a complement to ALS 6015: The Practice of Teaching in Higher Education —addresses topics including: principles and frameworks of assessment, course-based assessment methods and technologies, curricular integration of assessment, and social and political issues in assessment.

Theater Techniques for Enhancing Teaching and Public Speaking (ALS 6014)

This seven-week course uses theater techniques to help graduate students enhance their classroom teaching and public speaking in both formal and informal environments. Using the storytelling and character-development techniques of theatrical improvisation, participants will build decision-making skills and their ability to think creatively under pressure through engaging exercises. Participants will design and present a short talk as a final presentation.

Who Can Participate?

Graduate students who are currently teaching and preparing for a faculty position in higher education at Cornell.

Desired Outcomes

Theater techniques for enhancing teaching and public speaking .

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify theater strategies for enhancing classroom teaching and public speaking in formal and informal settings.
• Utilize and practice improvisational techniques to think creatively under pressure and to project confidence and respect for diverse perspectives.
• Apply storytelling techniques to communicate discipline-specific content more effectively and in a more engaging manner.
• Design and present a short lesson or talk that includes a rationale for how the lesson or talk was constructed around learning outcomes, the theater or public speaking principles applied, and methods for assessing student/audience engagement and learning.
• Integrate story arcs into presentations and lesson planning.
• Describe research on the use of theater techniques for enhancing teaching including how using theater techniques works to build more inclusive classes.
• Demonstrate evidence of reflective practice and learning through a web-based portfolio.

The Practice of Teaching in Higher Education 

• Describe major theories of how people learn
• Apply learning theory and instructional design principles to enhance instructional practice 
• Build knowledge and skill in the assessment of student learning
• Identify strategies for creating and sustaining inclusive environments for learning
• Identify uses of educational technology to facilitate student success
• Develop a collection of networks and resources to learn of ongoing discipline-specific educational research and professional development opportunities

Assessment in Higher Education 

• Distinguish between (class, course, and program) levels of assessment 
• Articulate learning outcomes at the course level
• Apply and use assessment techniques and technologies that are appropriate for the learning outcomes of any given course
• Develop “pedagogical content knowledge” (i.e. match teaching and assessment strategies to specific subject matter)
• Integrate assessment into course curricula
• Define the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SOTL) in context

UW–Madison Privacy Library

Uw-madison policy library, graduate school: minimum graduate coursework (50%) requirement, university policy.

Graduate students may, on occasion, take non-graduate level courses. To maintain the rigor required of graduate education and to comply with accreditation standards, graduate students are limited to the percentage of non-graduate level courses that count toward degree requirements.

A credit hour is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:

(1)One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out of class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester, or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time; or

(2)At least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph (1) of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.

Alternatively, a credit hour is defined as the learning that takes place in at least 45 hours of learning activities, which include time in lectures or class meetings, in-person or online, laboratories, examinations, presentations, tutorials, preparation, reading, studying, hands-on experiences, and other learning activities; or a demonstration by the student of learning equivalent to that established as the expected product of such a period of study.

In all cases, learning in for-credit courses is guided by a qualified instructor and includes regular and substantive student-instructor interaction.

Graduate students

The Graduate School requires at least 50% of credits applied toward a graduate degree be earned in courses designed and designated specifically for graduate-level work. Credits earned as a University Special student do not count toward the 50% graduate coursework minimum and degree requirements unless numbered 700 or above or is taken to meet the requirements of a Capstone Certificate and has the "G50%" attribute.

Graduate level coursework is identified with an attribute of “G50%” in the University’s Course Guide and Class Search. More information regarding the course attribute can be found on the Data, Academic Planning & Institutional Research (DAPIR) website. For students taking coursework through the fall 2015 term, the official university record which identifies programs documented “graduate level” coursework is each program’s Minimum Degree Requirements and Satisfactory Progress chart in the 2014-2016 Graduate School catalog.

Some programs may require more rigorous credit minimums than the Graduate School’s minimum as indicated in the Graduate Guide.

UW-1011 Credit Hour

UW-1216 Graduate School: Transfer Credits for Prior Coursework

UW-1221 Graduate School: Time Limits

UW-1245 Graduate School: Minimum Graduate Degree Credit Requirement

UW 1246 Graduate School: Minimum Graduate Residence Credit Requirement

UW-1247 Graduate School: Dissertator Status

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How to decide between postgraduate research and coursework

It can be a little tricky figuring out which postgraduate degree is for you. That’s why we’ve done the work for you to clarify the differences between a coursework degree and a research degree, and where each could take your career.

The main difference between these two styles is coursework has classes and research has a thesis.

Postgraduate coursework: advanced classes

In a nutshell: an advanced continuation of undergrad-style learning.

Choosing a coursework degree means you’ll attend lectures and tutorials, complete assignments and sit exams – just like your first degree. You’ll be taught discrete units that are part of a set program and at a higher academic level than your undergrad.

Coursework degrees aim to deepen your knowledge and enhance your undergraduate degree with postgraduate training, focusing you towards a specific profession. Alternatively, you can use your undergraduate degree to pivot and pursue a new area of study at postgraduate level.

For instance, you may have completed a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English and Japanese, then realised you’d like be a high school teacher, so you enrol in a Master of Teaching (Secondary) .

Or perhaps you did a Bachelor of Science majoring in Engineering Science and after working for a couple of years, you now want to start your own business. Enrolling in a Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation could get you there.

Also bear in mind, some coursework courses can involve a research element such as the completion of a minor thesis. This forms part of training your time management and written skills.

If you’re looking to complete a degree part time or solely online, you can find a postgraduate coursework degree to suit you. There are graduate certificates, graduate diplomas and master’s degrees, and we’ve explained the difference between these  too.

Postgraduate research: independent thesis

In a nutshell: solo research project to produce an original thesis.

Taking on a postgraduate research degree provides you with the unique opportunity to follow your interest in an area of research and contribute to the field.

You’ll work on your own project, under the guidance of an academic supervisor who you have chosen, with the aim of producing, presenting and submitting a final thesis. This final thesis is the culmination of your original research and investigation – an original contribution to knowledge.

You can often undertake any project of your choosing, as long as you can find a supervisor to connect with. Once you’ve found a potential supervisor, meet with them to discuss your project proposal and see if they agree to supervise you.

If you’re interested in completing a PhD or are thinking about a career in academia, a research degree is a popular decision. This type of study enables you to demonstrate your capacity to conduct research independently and form a distinct contribution to an area.

So what’s ‘honours’, then?

Honours  is the opportunity to extend your undergraduate degree by a year – a sort of bridging year between undergrad and postgrad. The benefit is setting yourself apart from other undergraduate grads, as employers value the skills gained from the independent research project you’ll complete.

Honours is reserved for students who demonstrate strong academic performance in their final-year units. You may be invited to consider honours or you can apply directly . Students considering a research master’s or PhD are strongly encouraged to complete an honours year as a research training exercise and a taster of what’s to come in the research life.

Still can’t decide? See what some of our coursework and research graduates have to say .

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Stanford Online

What you need to know about online graduate courses.

Pursuing graduate education can be a delicate balance of your time and resources.

Taking individual graduate courses can be a great way to learn specific skills without having to apply and enroll in a graduate degree program, and before you know if you want to take on both the commitment and the investment. Prospective students have many questions about online graduate courses and we’ve put together some of the top questions to help you determine if you want to pursue one.

What is taking a graduate course online like?

Many universities offer courses online. Every institution is different and it’s important you review the structure of each unique course and program. In Stanford’s online graduate courses you can watch recorded graduate level lectures or watch the lectures in real time as it takes place on campus. You are able to hear directly from the professors and students and benefit from all questions asked during the discussion, and you can participate in course forums. Our courses are not reused from quarter to quarter, so the material is always current and timely discussions happen in real time.

What are the benefits of taking graduate courses online?

There are many benefits of taking courses online including unmatched flexibility, the ability to watch lectures more than once, and opportunities to connect with a global network of fellow students.

Rewatching Lecture Recordings

Many of our students have told us it’s invaluable to be able to access lecture recordings. They are able to revisit  lectures as many times as they wish and add to their notes and homework.  It also helps when studying and preparing for exams.

Flexibility of both Live and Lecture Recordings

Another highlight is being able to “attend” course lectures as your schedule allows. Most of our students take courses while working full-time. Some weeks you may be able to sit in for the live stream of the lecture and the following week you may have a conflict and need to watch the recording after work. Due to the nature of online courses, you aren’t required to be present during the live lectures so you have flexibility when you need it the most!

Networking with other online students in your course

There are several opportunities throughout the quarter that will allow you to virtually connect with other students taking the same course online with online study sessions and homework discussions. In some courses, group projects allow students to work together frequently and expand their network even further.

Can I take graduate level courses as an undergraduate?

This depends on the requirements for the program you are applying to. At Stanford, a bachelor's degree is required before admittance into any graduate course. This establishes that you have a baseline understanding of certain core principles and topics that won’t be covered at an introductory level in a given graduate course. Our requirements ensure students have the academic background and courses necessary to succeed in a graduate-level course.

Can I take graduate courses without being in a program?

At Stanford, the answer is yes! You can take graduate courses without being in a graduate certificate program or master’s degree program. You will still need to submit a graduate course application and enroll to be admitted into a course. You can take as many graduate courses as you like, and never need to declare a program. Some of our students enroll in individual courses as their schedule allows, and study a variety of topics.

What do I need to enroll in an online graduate course?

The requirements will vary depending on the university. At Stanford we require a conferred bachelor's degree and a minimum GPA. Some courses have additional prerequisites. These are listed on the individual course pages, and our team can help you determine a good match for your background. Our helpful application guide can answer some of your top questions about what you need to know.

What will I receive after completing an online graduate course?

Many universities will issue credentials for completing courses online. Not all of those credentials are directly comparable. It’s important to understand the specifics about the credential you’re earning. This includes things like the issuing institution, the number of credits the course is worth, and what school or department the course is in. At Stanford, for every graduate-level course you complete, you will receive academic credit and a Stanford University transcript. 

Many of our students tell us the knowledge they gained from their studies gave them more confidence and enabled them to achieve professional goals. If you decide to continue to take more courses online and want to earn additional credentials, we have a wide range of graduate certificates and master’s degree programs to consider. Credits earned from graduate courses may count toward a graduate certificate, and in some cases toward a master’s degree, as determined by the academic department.

If I find graduate courses too rigorous, what other courses can I take?

Graduate courses cover advanced material and require many hours of study. To get a better feel for what our graduate courses are like, we recommend watching some of our past course lectures on YouTube . The material changes every quarter a course is taught and the material may be different based on the professor.

If your schedule or circumstances change, there are many alternatives to taking graduate courses online. You may consider a professional course , a free course , or learning from seminars and webinars online . You can benefit from all learning opportunities and it’s important to find a good cadence of studying that works with your schedule. If you need any help finding a course or content in a certain topic area, please reach out to our team .

Online graduate courses are a great way to pursue an advanced education with the flexibility you need.

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Feature | August 22, 2024

The Unique Bridge to World-Class Education

Exploring the Graduate Student-at-Large programs.

Professional success increasingly means embracing a mindset of perpetual learning.

What this means in practice is that many individuals—as automation, AI, and other technologies reshape their industries—find themselves seeking educational opportunities that offer flexibility, rigor, and (ideally) prestige.

Amid innumerable options—with new ones being introduced regularly—a time-tested though little-known academic program at the University of Chicago offers a unique solution that deserves wider recognition: the Graduate Student-at-Large (GSAL) program.

The GSAL program is a remarkable educational opportunity that allows individuals with a bachelor’s degree to enroll in a variety of graduate-level courses at the University of Chicago, one of the world’s premier academic institutions. This program, which traces its roots back to the University’s founding president William Rainey Harper, embodies a vision of education that is both inclusive and intellectually rigorous, providing a level of access to a top-tier institution’s curriculum that is rare outside of full-time degree programs.

Let’s examine this in more detail.

Rewards In the Classroom and Beyond

What distinguishes GSAL is its combination of flexibility and academic depth. It allows participants to select courses that align with their professional goals, guided by intensive academic advising, without the full commitment of a degree program. For aspiring MBA students, the Graduate Student-at-Large Business (GSALB) program offers access to University of Chicago Booth School of Business courses . The Returning Scholars program offers non-credit liberal arts courses that cater to those looking to learn more about a particular field of interest or are simply lifelong learners.

GSAL serves as a practical testing ground for those considering graduate school. It enables students to experience graduate-level coursework firsthand, interacting with leading faculty across various disciplines. For instance, a student might take advanced physics courses to determine whether a PhD in the field is the right path. This “try before you buy” approach can save significant time and resources. Students who later commit to a full program do so with confidence and clarity. Moreover, GSAL credits are accepted at other universities, potentially accelerating degree completion.

Importantly, the value of taking classes through GSAL, GSALB, and the Returning Scholars program extends beyond classroom experiences. Students gain access to a wide range of University of Chicago facilities and resources, including libraries , research centers, and academic workshops . The program also provides dedicated advising and mentoring support, helping students navigate the university system and the intellectual landscape of UChicago. This ensures they feel a true sense of belonging and are not just spectators as they make the most of their time in the program.

Another significant advantage of GSAL is the opportunity to build relationships with faculty members. These connections can help students secure letters of recommendation, a crucial and often challenging component of graduate program applications. By cultivating relationships with esteemed academics in their chosen discipline, students can enhance their credibility and stand out in competitive selection processes for other professional positions as well.

But the networking potential within GSAL extends beyond faculty interactions. Participants immerse themselves in an elite academic environment, attending classes with full-time graduate students and engaging with distinguished faculty members—even some Nobel laureates. These interactions can lead to meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom, potentially opening doors to new career opportunities or research partnerships.

Finally, in an age where credentials are scrutinized more closely than ever, even a single course from an institution like the University of Chicago can significantly enhance a resume. It demonstrates intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, and a commitment to continuous learning—qualities highly prized by employers and graduate admissions committees alike.

GSAL provides students with the tools, connections, and experiences to chart their own paths in an increasingly complex world. Esther Pandian-Riske, GSAL Program Director

Catalyst For Meaningful Career Shifts

The GSAL program also addresses another pressing concern in today’s educational landscape: the cost of higher education. By allowing students to take courses individually, the often-daunting entry point to graduate-level education becomes more accessible. This approach benefits those who may be hesitant to invest in a full degree program due to financial considerations or uncertainty about their career direction.

Program director Esther Pandian-Riske emphasizes the transformative potential of GSAL by noting that “our students come from diverse backgrounds and career stages, but they all share a desire for intellectual growth and professional development. GSAL provides them with the tools, connections, and experiences to chart their own paths in an increasingly complex world.”

Alumni experiences also illustrate the program’s impact. From professionals exploring new specialties to individuals successfully transitioning into full-time graduate programs , GSAL has served as a catalyst for meaningful career shifts and academic pursuits.

Ultimately, the professional world is evolving in a way that makes a program like GSAL increasingly valuable and relevant. It offers a critical bridge between traditional education models and the adaptable approach required in today’s job market. By providing flexible access to elite-level education, GSAL gives individuals the ability to proactively shape what they learn and their career trajectory as well. Explore how our GSAL can help you discover your bridge to what's next .

Build a Bridge to Your Future

Explore fields of academic study and preview graduate and undergraduate level courses by taking for-credit classes at UChicago.

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Undergraduate vs. Graduate: Educate Yourself On The Difference

• Undergraduate Meaning
• Undergraduate Student And Degree
• Graduate Meaning
• Graduate Degree And Student
• Graduate Origin
• Postgraduate Meaning

⚡ Quick summary

The main difference between undergraduate and graduate is that undergraduate is always used in the context of the first level of college or university education (the level where you can earn a bachelor’s degree ). In terms like graduate student and graduate degree , graduate refers to a level of advanced education beyond the undergraduate level, especially a master’s degree or doctorate . The noun graduate is more general, simply referring to a person who has completed a level of education (someone who has graduated ).

The difference between undergraduate and graduate is a difference of degrees (*throws graduation cap in the air to celebrate the pun*).

The level of education that each word involves varies depending on how the word is being used, and there are situations in which both words can be used in the same situation. For example, you can become a graduate student after graduating with an undergraduate degree.

The word graduate can mean very different things depending on whether it’s used as a noun (as in recent   high school graduates ), an adjective (as in graduate student and graduate degree ), or a verb (as in I plan to graduate next May ). The same goes for its shortened form, grad , which can be used as a noun (as in Congrats, grads! ) or an adjective (as in grad program ).

Undergraduate can also be used both as a noun (as in I’m an undergraduate at Stanford University ) or an adjective (as in I’m working toward my undergraduate degree ). It can be shortened to undergrad in both cases.

By the end of this article, you’ll have an advanced degree in all the different ways graduate, grad , undergraduate , and undergrad are used, and what they mean in each case.

What does undergraduate mean?

An undergraduate is “a student in a university or college who has not received a first, especially a bachelor’s, degree.” For example, a college student might say I’m an undergraduate at the University of Texas if they were pursuing a bachelor’s degree there.

Undergraduate is also commonly used as an adjective in this same context, in terms like undergraduate student , undergraduate degree , and undergraduate studies.

Undergraduate is often shortened to undergrad as both a noun and an adjective.

In undergraduate, the prefix under- is used to indicate a lower rank or status. The educational status of an undergraduate student is below that of a graduate student.

What’s the difference between wisdom and knowledge ? Here’s a lesson on the two terms.

What is an undergraduate student ? And what is an undergraduate degree ?

An undergraduate student is a student who is pursuing a degree at the first level of higher education (meaning the level after high school) at a college or university. Undergraduate students are typically those working to earn a bachelor’s degree (or, less commonly, an associate’s degree ). These degrees are often referred to with the general term undergraduate degree.

Outside of the US, an undergraduate degree is sometimes called a first degree. There are also other types of undergraduate degrees outside of the US, such as a foundation degree (which, like an associate’s degree, is typically a two-year degree).

What does graduate mean?

As a noun, the word graduate  [  graj -oo-it ] refers to “a person who has received a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” In other words, a graduate is someone who has completed a particular level of schooling or an educational program—a child who just finished kindergarten and a doctor who just completed medical school are both graduates. It can even be used figuratively , as in She’s a graduate of the school of hard knocks.

As a verb, graduate [  graj -oo-eyt ] means “to receive a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” The process of graduating—and the ceremony itself—is called graduation .

As an adjective, graduate [  graj -oo-it ] means something more specific. It’s used to indicate that a student, degree, or educational program is an advanced one, beyond the level of a bachelor’s degree. This sense of graduate is most commonly used in terms like graduate degree, graduate school , graduate program, and graduate student.

What is a graduate degree ? And what is a graduate student ?

Graduate degree typically refers to a degree beyond a bachelor’s, most commonly a master’s.

A graduate student is a student who’s pursuing an advanced degree after having earned their undergraduate degree (such as a bachelor’s degree) by graduating from an undergraduate program. Calling someone a graduate student most often means they are pursuing their master’s degree, but it may be another advanced degree, such as a PhD (You’d most commonly call such students PhD students. Or you might say they are working toward their doctorate or their doctoral degree.)

To earn a graduate degree, graduate students go to a division of a university known as graduate school , and such a program is often called a graduate program. In all of these terms, graduate is often shortened to grad : grad school , grad student , grad program . (A student doesn’t become a graduate student until they take graduate-level courses. For example, if a student graduates with a bachelor’s degree and then later pursues a different bachelor’s degree, they are still an undergraduate student .)

Some graduate studies are referred to in more specific ways: medical students go to medical school to earn their medical degree ; law students go to law school to earn their law degree.

Do you know the difference between these highly-esteemed graduate degrees and titles: PhD, MD, and Dr ?

Where does the word graduate come from?

Graduate comes from the Medieval Latin graduārī, meaning “to take a degree.” It ultimately derives from the Latin gradus, meaning “a step.” Each time you graduate, you take a step to the next level of education.

What does postgraduate mean?

The adjective postgraduate is sometimes used in the same way as the adjective sense of the word graduate, especially in the UK, as in postgraduate student or postgraduate studies.

Postgraduate should not be confused with postdoctoral , which refers to studies, research, or professional work above the level of a doctorate.

How to use undergraduate vs. graduate

The best way to sort out the different meanings of undergraduate and graduate is to determine whether each word is being used as a noun, an adjective, or a verb. Here’s an easy breakdown of the differences.

• undergraduate (noun): A college student pursuing a non-advanced degree, most commonly a bachelor’s degree. Can be shortened to undergrad.
• undergraduate (adjective): Used in the context of colleges and university programs ( undergraduate programs ) where students are pursuing a degree (generally referred to as an undergraduate degree ) that is not an advanced degree. Also sometimes shortened to undergrad.
• graduate (noun): A person who has completed a particular level of schooling or educational program. Can be shortened to grad.
• graduate (verb): To complete a level of schooling (and, typically, to receive a degree or diploma). You can graduate from kindergarten, high school, college, graduate school, medical school, etc.
• graduate (adjective): Used in the context of advanced schooling—a level beyond a bachelor’s degree, most commonly a master’s program. Used in terms like graduate student , graduate school , graduate degree , graduate program , graduate courses , etc. Often shortened to grad.

Examples of undergraduate, undergrad, graduate, and grad used in a sentence

Let’s look at some examples of these words in actual, real-life use to get the meanings straight.

• As an undergraduate, she had studied engineering; as a graduate student, she switched to architecture.
• I completed my undergraduate degree after five years and a lot of hard work.
• As a graduate student, you will be expected to complete a thesis.
• You should start thinking about graduate school applications before you graduate.
• Most of the applicants for this position are recent college graduates.
• I’m still an undergrad, but I’m hoping to start grad school next fall.
• I’m a UGA grad, but I almost went to Georgia Tech.

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Graduate & Online Studies

Be more than you ever thought possible..

At Ferrum College, our five graduate programs and online courses equip you to become more engaged with your career. Our integrated approach to education will prepare you to be successful in your professional life. All our graduate programs, continuing teacher education courses, and the RN to BSN are 100% online to maximize flexibility.

Athletic Coaching, M.S.

The Master of Science in Athletic Coaching program develops and prepares coaches to assist student-athletes in the successful attainment of the well-being of mind, body, and spirit that catalyzes athletic performance.

Curriculum and Instruction, M.Ed.

The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction prepares educators who already have a bachelor’s degree and/or a master’s in education to reach the next level of their career goals. This non-licensure program aims to create confident educators who are responsive to their students’ diverse curriculum and instructional development needs. 

Teacher Leadership and Coaching, Ed.S.

The Education Specialist in Teacher Leadership and Coaching is a 30-credit-hour online program that will provide candidates with skills to be leaders in a variety of collaborative learning environments at the school or district level.

Nursing, MSN:CNL

As a Ferrum MSN student, you will attain proficiency in systematic inquiry with the use of evidenced-based knowledge. We believe the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) program prepares graduates to assume advanced roles in nursing.

Psychology, M.S.

The Master of Science in Psychology is a flexible, non-licensure degree program, enabling students to adapt the program to their particular interests and goals in psychology. This degree culminates in a choice of thesis or advanced study, training students to become competent consumers and producers of social science research.

M.S. In Clinical and Counseling Psychology

The Master of Clinical and Counseling Psychology prepares graduates to complete requirements to become Licensed Psychological Associates (LPAs*) or Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs*) through the licensure processes established in each locale.

“Ferrum College offers much more than just an excellent education. The professors and staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and supportive. I completed my bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in psychology at Ferrum College. This program has prepared me for diverse experiences and multiple career settings. I highly recommend the Ferrum College Psychology Program for those looking to make a career in this field.” 

Katie Ingram, M.S. ’21, QMHP-A

Teacher certification courses.

Provisionally Licensed Teacher Certification

To assist current teachers who have been provisionally licensed by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to teach in a school district, Ferrum College now offers a Professional Studies in Education for Licensure Certificate!

Current Course Rotation

• Fall II:  EDU 357 Classroom Management
• Winter I:  EDU 355 Curriculum and Instruction
• Spring I:  EDU 359 Assessment of and for Learning
• Spring II:  EDU 310 Developmental and Diagnostic Reading
• Summer I:  EDU 312 Content Area Literacy

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Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Counseling & Chaplaincy

Your certificate in pastoral counseling and chaplaincy degree starts here, program overview.

Oral Roberts University’s Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Counseling and Chaplaincy is a 100% online program that can equip you to serve on the front lines of the Spirit-empowered movement today. You will graduate with practical knowledge, grounded in Scripture, with applied skills related to the ministry of pastoral counseling, taught by faculty who have both pastoral and clinical experience.

More than this, our commitment to educating your whole person—mind, body, and spirit—can truly set you apart with a practical online ministry degree for anyone who feels called to serve in church, para-church, or ministry training settings. It is designed for who have been out of college for at least two years, and who are looking for an affordable way to study scripture and theology, along with methods of pastoral counseling.

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WHAT ABOUT ACCREDITATION?

This program is offered by ORU’s Graduate School of Theology and Ministry. As a university, we meet the accreditation standards of the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition and financial aid

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Ready to apply? Start your application here.

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See the exact courses included in this program!

HOW WILL A MASTER OF PASTORAL COUNSELING ADVANCE MY CAREER?

Our unique mission to develop Spirit-empowered leaders can enhance your effectiveness as you serve in these ministry-related occupations:

• Pastoral Counselors
• Ministry Leaders

WHAT COURSES WILL I TAKE?

To earn a Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Counseling you will take various courses that will set you apart as a skilled pastoral counselor. A few of the courses that will set you apart in ministry:

• Theology of Pastoral Counseling
• Scripture and Pastoral Counseling
• Pastoral Counseling and Crises
• Pastoral Counseling Methods

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE ME TO GRADUATE?

This degree program requires 12 credit hours. If you enroll full-time, you could finish it in just two semesters. Students take one 3-credit hour course over a 7-week term. During each course, you will meet your instructor and classmates in a live-stream webinar four times.

HOW MUCH DOES THIS PROGRAM COST?

Any other reasons to complete my degree online with oru.

• You’ll graduate on time with a team of Success Coaches who’ll walk with you every step of the way.
• You can begin classes ASAP with year-round terms and direct access to our friendly admissions team.
• Fit classes into your schedule so you can balance work and family commitments.
• Academic support with easy access to caring professors and helpful learning resources.
• Access classes anytime and anywhere with our mobile-friendly and user-friendly online platform.

Ask us about our introductory 7-day Graduate Orientation class that will jump-start your studies. Experience what students worldwide have gained by earning a certificate with ORU Online.

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Join a community of believers from over 140 nations

Oral Roberts University is one of the largest and most influential Christian universities in the world. We develop whole leaders for the whole world through a unique Whole Person education. Spirit-empowered leaders come to ORU, not to “stay” in their faith, but to GROW in faith.

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Department of Mathematical Sciences

Fall 2024 course syllabi.

Syllabi for Coordinated Undergraduate Courses, Non-Coordinated Undergraduate Courses, and Graduate Courses.

*Course Syllabi for Fall 2024 are currently being updated. Please check back at a later date.

Coordinated Course Syllabi

For course descriptions, please see NJIT's Undergraduate Course Catalog for the Department of Mathematical Sciences .​

Undergraduate Non-Coordinated Course Syllabi

Graduate Course Syllabi

For course descriptions, please see NJIT's Graduate Course Catalog for the Department of Mathematical Sciences .​

  Updated:  2024

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Post-Graduate Certificate Program

A Unique School and PMHNP-PGC Program

Complete the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate Program (PMHNP-PGC) to address individual, family and population needs for mental health promotion and prevention.

Experience a curriculum that emphasizes collaborative and holistic, trauma-informed care that is grounded in the principles of resilience and healing. 

Develop PMHNP lifespan clinical competencies across the care continuum. 

Participate with other Georgetown University students and faculty in interdisciplinary discussions addressing complex “wicked” problems impacting human health. 

Develop structural competencies to promote social justice and reduce inequalities in mental health care. 

Advocate for policies that improve mental health care access, quality and equity by collaborating with professional organizations and congressional members in Washington, D.C. Immerse yourself in Georgetown School of Nursing and campus whole person education through exposure to different viewpoints, faiths and cultures.

A Message From the PMHNP-PGC Program Director

Karan Kverno

Comprehensive mental health care services that include community trauma-informed approaches, harm reduction, and recovery support, are in increasing demand nationwide as people deal with issues ranging from acute crises to chronic illnesses or substance use disorders.

The psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner post-graduate certificate (PMHNP-PGC) program provides master’s and doctorally prepared nurse practitioners with the knowledge and training necessary to deliver mental health care across the lifespan in a variety of clinical settings.

The vision for the program is to support the development of competent PMHNPs that will provide patient-focused, equitable, mental health care. The vision also includes preparing graduates to support patients, families, and communities in addressing social and structural perpetuating risk factors, and to connect those with needs to community resources that help sustain recovery and support resilience.

Thank you for your interest in our program. We look forward to hearing from you as you explore making mental health care part of your practice!

— Karan Kverno, PhD, PMHNP-BC, PMHCNS-BC, FAANP, FAAN

Program Format

The PMHNP-PGC Program’s hybrid format includes asynchronous learning resources, synchronous online class discussions, and two on-campus learning intensives with simulated, standardized patients.

The program emphasizes care of the whole person ( cura personalis ), through individualized evaluation and treatment of symptoms and concerns within the context of unique life circumstances. 

To develop competencies in psychiatric assessment, diagnostic reasoning and evidence-based interventions, students will have clinical practicum experiences in partnership with Medstar Health and other community settings.

Post Graduation Certification

Graduates will be prepared to take the PMHNP certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Course Sequence

Semester 1 fall 1.

Semester 2 Spring 1

Semester 1 Fall 2

Requirements for Admission

The admission requirements for the master’s-level PMHNP post-graduate certificate program are:

• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
• Current unrestricted U.S. registered nurse (RN) license, and nurse practitioner (NP) license and certification in a primary care specialty. 
• Master of Science in Nursing degree from a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited program
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and a 3.0 science GPA
• At least one year of full-time NP experience is recommended
• Values consistent with Georgetown University’s Jesuit values and DEIB

As part of the MS in Nursing admission process, the student will also be required to provide the following:

• Professional résumé or curriculum vitae
• Official academic transcripts
• Personal statement
• Recorded interview
• Three letters of recommendation

Connect With Us For More Information

Learn more about Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate program by clicking below and completing the form. Our admissions team will contact you with additional information.

Application Deadline

This program admits students once per year in the fall. Applications are now being accepted for the 2025-26 academic year .

Application deadline: January 15, 2025

Tuition and Financial Aid

View current tuition information on the Georgetown University Revenue and Receivables website.

View financial aid information for School of Nursing Graduate Online Students on the Georgetown University Office of Student Financial Services website.