Applied Computer Science

Q: Do you have any Graduate Assistantships or Scholarships?
A: Our assistantship and scholarship opportunities at GVSU are limited. Instead, we offer the opportunity of graduate internships with local companies. We don't "place" students with companies, but our students typically find an internship where they can apply their computing skills. Furthermore, internships are paid and may lead to permanent employment after the degree is completed. As for graduate assistantships, we normally do not award them to new students. Instead, we often reserve graduate assistantship positions for our established graduate students who have been successful in the classroom. However, when a new open GA position becomes available, we email all graduate students letting them know of the opportunity. Finally, for scholarships, GVSU has a few that are specific to computing. You can browse the entire list of scholarships through myScholarships.

Q: I don't have a formal academic background in computing (or at least not much of one), but someone in the advising office told me I could still apply. Is that true?
A: Quite possibly. In general, we expect students to arrive knowing how to program in an object-oriented language. 

• If you have that knowledge already, e.g., you're a software developer looking to gain additional computing skills, then you are probably ready to start with advanced coursework.
• If you've programmed before, but your skills are rusty, then we suggest you take CIS 500 as a refresher course first. This course will ensure you have a solid foundation on which to build further skills.
• If you've never programmed before, then we have several options for you: CIS 160, CIS 161, or CIS 162. All three teach you to program from the ground up, but they use different languages or have a different focus. Alternatively, if you're a self-starter, you could consider learning to program on your own and then take our placement test to see if you have the skills we expect.

Q: Do you offer any classes online?
A: Yes. The exact combination of traditional and online classes varies from semester to semester, so check the information systems course schedule for details.

Q: Q: I work full-time; when are classes offered?
A: Classes are offered Monday-Thursday, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. If the class is offered in a traditional face-to-face format, the class meets one night per week. If offered in a hybrid mode, the class will meet a few times each semester in the evening. If the class is offered synchronously online, meetings will still be in the evening.

Athletic Training

Q: What is the difference between an athletic trainer and a personal trainer?
A: Athletic trainers (ATs) are highly qualified, multi-skilled health care professionals who render service or treatment, under the direction of or in collaboration with a physician, in accordance with their education, training, and the state's statutes, rules, and regulations. As a part of the health care team, services provided by athletic trainers include primary care, injury and illness prevention, wellness promotion and education, emergent care, examination and clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions. Athletic trainers are sometimes confused with personal trainers. There is, however, a large difference in the education, skillset, job duties, and patients of an athletic trainer and a personal trainer. The athletic training academic curriculum and clinical training follows the medical model. Athletic trainers must graduate from an accredited graduate program, and 70% of ATs have a master’s degree.

Q: How many hours and/or days per week will this degree take?
A: This program is designed to be two-years in duration which includes summer courses between the first and second year. Classes take place Monday-Friday in the first half of the day (typically 8 a.m.-1 p.m.) with clinical rotations taking place in the afternoon (typically 2 p.m.-6 p.m.). These hours are variable on any given day and depend on the site and the activities going on. In addition, you will have opportunities arise which will allow you to travel with certain teams, both during the week and over the weekend.

Q: Can I complete this degree while working full-time?
A: Full-time work is not usually possible due to the hour requirements within the program, but many of our students hold part-time jobs that are willing to work around student schedules.

Biology

Q: How do I select a graduate committee?
A: Your graduate committee serves as a resource for your program of study and provides input and advice as you develop your thesis, project, or internship. Your graduate committee also helps evaluate your readiness to engage in your proposed activities via the qualifying exam, and evaluate your final written document when you defend your degree. Talk to your major advisor, as well as your fellow graduate students to determine the best committee composition. A committee ideally sets high, but realistic, expectations for you. Three graduate committee members are required, one of whom is your major advisor, but you may have more if it is in the best interest of your program of study.  All committee members must have graduate faculty standing. Committee members from outside the university are supported, but they must apply for Adjunct Graduate Faculty standing. The required form, Adjunct Faculty Engaged in Graduate Education Application, is located on The Graduate School's Forms Library page.

Q: Where do I find information about the Biology Master’s degree final project report (either thesis, project, or internship report)?
A: The GVSU Graduate School (TGS) provides excellent resources for the development of your written thesis, project, or internship report. Follow these guidelines carefully as failure to adhere can extend the time required to graduate. Guidelines and other writing resources can be found on the TGS Thesis and Dissertation Information page, and examples of high-quality theses can be found on the TGS Graduate Writing Resources page.

Q: What are the expectations for publication and scholarship?
A: The Biology graduate program has the following intellectual property expectations and guidelines: “We strongly encourage graduate students to submit for publication their research projects, internships, and theses as the primary author, and with appropriate secondary authorship including, but not limited to, the student’s major advisor. If, after one-year post-graduation or after one year of no active progress toward graduation a manuscript has not been submitted, the major advisor may submit the results for publication using an alternate first author, and with appropriate recognition of the student’s contribution(s). The student shall solicit approval of the advisor(s) and other co-authors prior to presenting or disseminating the results of the research or project. The intellectual property that consists of the student’s project, internship, or thesis shall be shared jointly between the student and the major advisor. Prior to graduation, and/or upon request, the graduate student must provide a digital copy of all data collected and/or related voucher samples to the major advisor. GVSU Authorship Guidelines can be found at GVSU's Responsible Conduct of Research.

Q: Should I join the Biology Graduate Club?
A: In short, yes!  The Biology Graduate Club provides a really important pathway to obtain funding to both attend and/or present the results of your research at regional, national, and international conferences.  If you are NOT a member of the club, you do not have access to this support.  The club does require a minimal annual membership fee, and also coordinates numerous social activities throughout the year. To sign up, please visit the LakerLink website.   

Q: What’s the qualifying exam and when do I need to take it?
A: Prior to initiating your research project, you need to complete an oral qualifying exam administered by your graduate committee.  Each committee member will give you material to review and/or a topic or set of topics to be covered, all related to your proposed research endeavor. The purpose of the exam is two-fold.  Firstly, we want to make sure you are prepared to embark on your project. Secondly, we want to give you practice thinking on your feet while responding to questions. After the oral exam, your committee ascertains your preparation and may recommend additional readings and preparation. This also helps prepare you to attend and present at professional meetings and for your public thesis/project/internship defense.

Q: What is the thesis, project, or internship defense?
A: The defense represents the culminating experience for your M.S. degree, and is an opportunity for you to publicly present and defend your research.  This event is open to the public, must be advertised in advance, and is a space for the community to ask you questions about your work. Arguably, most students find this to be quite enjoyable!  You’ve spent at least two years of your life working on a project and to be given an opportunity to spend an hour presenting and discussing your work is, frankly, satisfying. The public defense is proceeded by a closed meeting with your graduate committee who provide final suggestions and feedback, make recommendations on any additional work that should be done, and will eventually ‘sign off’ on your work, giving their stamp of approval for what you have accomplished and written.

Biostatistics

Q: How much of a background in statistics do I need to get into the Biostatistics Master’s program? What are the minimal background statistics requirements for an application?
A: Minimally, an application should have good performance in each of STA 215 and STA 216 at GVSU (or equivalents at other universities).  An application is strengthened, and acceptance is more likely if there is good performance in additional applied statistics courses at the undergraduate level (e.g. STA 321, STA 310, STA 315 at GVSU or equivalents at other universities). A conditional admission decision may allow one or more of these additional statistics courses to be concurrent with graduate courses.

Q: Are there Graduate Assistantships available for the Biostatistics Master’s program? Do I need to apply?
A: There are half-time assistantships available for duties within the Department of Statistics for each of two semesters in the academic year. These duties could involve tutoring in the Math/Statistics Tutoring Center, grading assignments, or supporting in the Statistical Consulting Center. All accepted students are considered until funds are exhausted. There also may be relevant assistantships available in other departments on campus.

Q: Would I have to I find an internship on my own? What help is provided for securing this required part of the program?
A: You may search for an internship on your own and you are encouraged to do so. There are some established internships for the program that usually become available every year. The Graduate Program Director will inform you of these internships but these opportunities are limited and may be open to public competition. Some support may also be given in securing an internship by the coordinator of the PSM programs.

Q: Are there evening courses? My employer may not be flexible with allowing me to do courses during the day.
A: Most of the program courses have classes that begin after 4 p.m. Such a time frame includes almost all of the statistics courses as well as CIS 661 and CMB 610 (which are required in the Biostatistics Master’s program).

Q: Are there any required courses as biology prerequisites?
​​​​​​​A: Although some undergraduate biology background may be helpful, there are no biology course requirements prior to starting the Biostatistics Master’s program.

Cell and Molecular Biology

Q: What are the pathways to the Master of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB)?
A: Students may apply for either the biotechnology or research emphases — both emphases result in receiving a Master of Science degree in CMB In addition, GVSU undergraduate students majoring in CMB may apply for the combined degree program (BS+M.) in CMB, while GVSU undergraduates from other majors may apply for the student-initiated combined degree program.

Q: What are the differences between the biotechnology and research emphases?
A: The research emphasis is a traditional, thesis-based M.S. in which a student pursues a specific question in depth and produces a thesis containing publishable results. In order to be admitted to the research emphasis, a faculty member must agree to serve as the thesis mentor. The biotechnology emphasis is an approved Professional Science Master’s (PSM) program, indicating that students in the program not only learn scientific content but also professionalism, ethics, and information about working in the life science industry. All PSM students will participate in an internship chosen to further their career goals.

Q: What distinguishes the CMB program at GVSU from other programs?
A: Our program has a rigorous laboratory component to compliment the theoretical courses which prepares graduates for virtually any laboratory setting in academia, industry, or non-profit life science research. In addition, the professional component of the degree is especially useful for those interested in pursuing a career in the life science industry.

Q: How long does it take to complete the MS degree full-time?
A: Students generally complete the MS degree in four academic semesters, which is about two years. Students in the combined degree programs may receive both the BS and MS degrees in as little as five years.

Q: Where have PSM students completed their internships?
A: Students may complete their internships in West Michigan or anywhere that suits them (many have spent the summer completing an internship on the East or West coasts or even internationally) but examples of some recent internship sites include:

• Priority Health
• Annis Water Resources Institute
• Van Andel Institute
• Michigan State University
• NxGen MDx
• Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy
• Spectrum Health
• Empirical Biosciences
• Perrigo
• CMB Molecular Monitoring Lab at GVSU
• Kent County Health Department
• Chicago Clinical Research Institute

Q: What financial support is available for students?
A: The department has a limited number of Graduate Assistantships (GAs) which we divide in half in order to provide some support to as many students as possible. Students with a first semester GPA of 3.5 or better are eligible for a half-time GA beginning in their second semester of graduate study. In addition to GAs, many students are able to work to support themselves. International Students may work for a maximum of 20 hours (including any GA) on campus and domestic students may work on or off-campus.

Communications

Q: Are the courses in this program in-person, hybrid, online, or a mix?
A: The courses are a mix of face-to-face instruction and hybrid. You can see whether your course is face-to-face or hybrid when you register for classes through your Banner account.

Q: If I have a question about the program or graduate education in general, should I contact the GPD in my program, or the Graduate School, or either?
A: If you have program-specific questions for the Master of Science in Communications, contact your Graduate Program Director. For more general questions, feel free to discuss these with your GPD as well, or contact The Graduate School. 

Q: If I have a question about tuition payment, or other financial questions, whom do I contact?
A: For questions about finances, please contact the Financial Aid Office.

Q: Can my program be taken full-time or part-time?
A: The Master of Science in Communications can be completed either full-time or part-time. Taken part-time, the versatile program can be completed in two to three years, with assistantships available on a competitive basis.

Q: Where are courses offered on the Pew Campus?
A: Courses are offered in nearly every building on the Pew Campus. This campus is very compact and allows for quick travel time between buildings. You can view where classes will be located in the “Instructor/Meeting Times” tab in your Registration Self Service site.

Q: Where can I find a reliable map of the Pew Campus, Allendale Campus, Grand Rapids, and West Michigan?
A: Maps of all Grand Valley campuses, including all satellite locations, can be found on the Grand Valley website under Maps and Directions.

Q: Can someone give me a tour of the Pew Campus?
A: All tour options for incoming students can be found on the Admissions website under Graduate Campus Visit. These tour options include virtual tours, phone appointments, and by appointment in-person visits.

Q: How safe is the Pew Campus?  Where can I find the data?
A: All data on crime statistics for Grand Valley can be found on the Campus Safety website. This website also includes a variety of resources to help the campus community remain a safe environment, including phone numbers for a wide range of campus emergencies and information on COVID-19 policies.

Q: Is security available on the Pew Campus?  If yes, what is the telephone number and email address?
A: Information on the Department of Public Safety, including links to connect with GVPD. The phone number to contact the Department of Public Safety is (616) 331-3255 and the GVPD Non-Emergency number for Pew Campus is (616) 456-3400.

Q: Is the Speech Lab available on the Pew Campus?  Where?
A: While the Speech Lab is based on the Allendale Campus, there are speech consultants available to students in the Steelcase Library on the Pew Campus. Hours of operation for the speech consultants can be found on the Speech Lab website.

Q: Is the Writing Center available on the Pew Campus?  Where?
A: While the Writing Center is based on the Allendale Campus, there are writing consultants available to students in the Steelcase Library on the Pew Campus. There are also options to meet virtually with consultants and to submit an email consultation. For more information an hours of operation for the writing consultants, check out the Writing Center website.

Q: Where can one dine on the Pew Campus?  What is the weekly schedule?
A: There are many options to dine on the Pew campus, many of which are located in the DeVos Center. For specific locations and hours, which change based on class breaks, check out the Laker Food Co. website.

Q: Where is the bookstore on the Pew Campus?  Is there more than one bookstore on the Pew Campus?
A: The Laker Store on Pew Campus can be found on the first floor of DeVos Center building C, near the Starbucks. This is the only bookstore location on the Pew campus.

Q: Is assistance for students with disabilities available on the Pew Campus?
A: Disability Support Resources are available to all students on the Pew Campus. For information on how to request these services, visit the Disability Support Resources website.

Q: Is a counselling center available on the Pew Campus?
A: Yes, the counselling center on Pew Campus is located in DeVos Center Building B-101. This location is currently closed to in-person appointments due to COVID-19, but telehealth appointments are available. For more information, visit the counselling center website.

Cybersecurity

Q: Are there assistantships available / how do I apply for an assistantship?
A: The School of Computing (which includes Cybersecurity) has some assistantship positions. However, these are normally assigned to students who get to know their professors who can then recommend them for available opportunities. It would be very rare for a student to receive a Graduate Assistantship position in our department prior to the first semester of academic work. Some students obtain assistantships in other departments. It is also common for our students to obtain jobs and internships at local companies while pursuing the master’s degree.

Q: Do I need to take the GRE?
A: The GRE is required if your undergraduate GPA is below a 3.0. If your undergraduate GPA is 3.0 or above, the GRE will not be necessary.

Q: Do I need any prior background or experience in Cybersecurity?
A: We have students in the program with all levels of prior experience, ranging from none at all to several years of job experience. Our curriculum is designed with no assumptions about your prior Cybersecurity education or experience. The required courses will cover all necessary Cybersecurity knowledge and skills.

Q: Do I need any prior background or experience in computer programming?
A: Students who do not have background knowledge in computer programming will be required to take an undergraduate class such as CIS 160, CIS 161, or CIS 162 prior to taking CIS 500, which is a prerequisite for many of the classes in the Cybersecurity curriculum. Another option for students with no prior computer programming experience is taking an online computer programming class prior to joining our Cybersecurity program.

Q: Can any classes be waived if I have a strong background?
A: For those with sufficient knowledge in programming and/or computer networking, other classes may be substituted for CIS 500 and/or CIS 501. For those with a particularly strong background in an area directly coinciding with another required course, credit may be available by exam in accordance with GVSU’s policy on converting professional learning into graduate degree credit.

Education Programs (General)

Q: How many credits do I need to qualify for financial aid?  
A: Six credits and full admission into a graduate program (non-degree seeking students are not qualified for financial aid).

Q: Are there scholarships available?  
A: Education-specific scholarships are available on Education's scholarship page. University/other scholarships are available through myScholarships.

Q: What do I need to do if my employer is covering my tuition?  
A: Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information: [email protected] or (616) 331-3234.  For GVSU Charter School employees, please contact Jayme Lesperance at (616) 331-6964 or [email protected], or visit GVSU’s Charter Schools Office page.

Q: How many credits can I transfer in from other institutions? Undergraduate programs? Work experience for credit? 
A: Contact the Graduate Program Director for information on transfer credit.

Q: Can I come back to finish a degree I started at GVSU 10+ years ago? 
A: GVSU’s policy is that all courses need to be completed within 8 years for a graduate degree. In some cases, exceptions to the 8-year time limit may be granted. For courses older than 10 years, sometimes students are asked to repeat courses, take alternative courses, or complete an independent study to prove their currency in the coursework that is outdated. Please contact The Graduate School for more information.

Q: The GRE is listed on the admission application but isn’t listed as a requirement on my individual academic program’s webpage; am I required to take the GRE?
A: The GRE is not required for admission into any of the Education graduate programs, so this portion of the admission application can be skipped.

Q: What is the RCR and why am I required to complete it?  
A: The RCR is the Responsible Conduct of Research training and certification module that must be completed prior to conducting any research and before graduation.  This is free to you, and is typically completed before/during EDF 660, but must be completed before the capstone course (ED* 693/695).  More information on this can be found on the Graduate Education Programs page.

Q: What does it look like to take a course fully asynchronously online?  
A: Asynchronous online courses do not have a set meeting time, but do follow a normal semester schedule so they are not fully self-paced.  Some courses might have weekly modules that need to be completed, with particular due dates for assignments, discussion boards, journals, etc.  More information regarding online education can be found on GVSU’s Online Education page.

Q: Where can I see how many courses I still have left to complete my degree?  
A: For the best advising on which courses are still needed to complete your degree, please contact your Graduate Program Director or the Office of Certification and Accreditation (new name for SISC) at (616) 331-6650. You can also check your MyPath, which is a tool designed to assist you in preparing for and tracking your progress toward graduation. 

• If you are seeking a teaching endorsement and would like to know how many classes are left to complete, MyPath might not give a clear picture of your program, so please contact your Graduate Program Director or the Office of Certification and Accreditation at (616) 331-6650.

Educational Technology

Q: I have applied for the Master of Education (M.Ed.) program for Educational Technology. What should I do now?
A: After being accepted to the program, please go to the Education Technology resources site and take the GVSU EDT Technology Assessment. This technology self-assessment is designed to ensure that students who take graduate educational technology emphasis area courses have the knowledge and skill required to be successful in these classes.

Fill out, sign, and return a planned program sheet for the M.Ed. degree in Educational Technology: this sheet can be obtained from your faculty advisor or by e-mailing [email protected]. A planned program can be setup for the master’s degree as well as the professional certificate option. You may take six credits in the program prior to committing to a planned program. This Adobe Acrobat format file (PDF) can be opened in Acrobat Reader and allows you to enter your personal information into the planned program form. Open the file and click on the Name, Student G-number, Address, etc. fields and type in your information. To officially sign the document, you will also need a digital ID. If you already have one, you can attach it when you click on the Student Signature field. If you do not have one, you can create one by following the instructions and prompts. Once signed, you should send the updated planned program to [email protected].

Q: Which elective courses qualify in this program?
A: If you are a K-12 teacher, you are required to complete a field experience (EDT 685) as part of your planned program. This field experience replaces elective credits for K-12 teachers in the program. For professionals in the field of education (i.e. non-K-12 teachers), elective credits can take the form of graduate courses at GVSU, graduate courses from other colleges of universities that are accredited, or graduate-level credits offered by school districts, ISD’s, or other academic agencies. Please talk with your academic advisor to discuss valid elective courses.

Q: What are my options for a Capstone?
A: GVSU offers students two (2) options for completing their M.Ed. capstone experience: a development project (EDT 693) or a research/thesis (EDT 695).

EDT 693 Project - A project involves curriculum or program development, and applies theory to practice. For a project, students create, implement (in EDT 685), and evaluate a product of personal interest that is used in a professional capacity.

EDT 695 Thesis - A thesis is a traditional research capstone where an advanced degree candidate gathers data, analyzes that data, and presents the results along with their interpretations. During a thesis, students implement and evaluate a research study, analyze data to answer a research question, or test a hypothesis in an area of interest.

Students may choose either option- note there are different requirements depending on your choice. Information on the Education website provides help when choosing a thesis or project, as does course work completed in EDT 621: Topics in Educational Technology. Students who choose to complete a project (EDT 693) must submit an application (available online) the term before they plan to complete their project. There are deadlines for applications for each term.

Students who choose to complete a thesis (EDT 695) must declare their choice between 30-60% of completion of their course work (after completing 12-18 credits, during EDT 621), must identify a thesis advisor, form a thesis committee, and register for EDT 695. Those students who select a thesis but are unable to finish it in one term may enroll in EDT 696 in subsequent terms. Other university requirements for completion of a thesis (EDT 695) can be found on the Graduate School's Thesis and Dissertation Information page. Students who are considering a thesis (EDT 695) are encouraged to talk with their advisor after completion of 18-credits so they can designate their plans as required by GVSU.

Q: I just found out I am required to complete the Responsible Conduct of Research online training. Can you explain this requirement?
A: The GVSU Graduate School requires Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training to ensure that all graduate students at GVSU meet requirements regarding research training. Students in the Educational Technology program must complete RCR "Stage 1- Basic", which consists of seven modules. RCR must be completed prior to completion of 50% of the graduate program, or prior to engaging in any research activity. Research activity includes enrollment in the capstone project (EDT 693) or thesis (EDT 695). RCR Certification expires after 3 years, and must be current while engaging in any research activity. More information about RCR is available on the Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Requirement page.

Instruction & Curriculum - Elementary Education

Q: Which courses can be completed online, and where are face-to-face classes held?
A: All in-person courses are held on the Pew Campus in downtown Grand Rapids. EDI 630 and EDI 631 are offered face-to-face , or in a hybrid format that requires some in-person class attendance. EDI 637 and EDI 639 are offered in a hybrid format. The EDI 685 practicum is completed in an elementary classroom. All other courses are offered online or do not require in-person class attendance.

Q: What advanced credentials will this program provide, or what will this program enable me to do outside of classroom teaching?
A: The Master of Education in Elementary Education provides advanced professional development for certified elementary teachers. It does not provide any additional Michigan teaching endorsements.

Q: How long will the program take, or how fast can I finish it?
A: Students must complete the program within eight years, but can finish the 33-credit program in less than two years by enrolling in multiple courses each semester and/or completing courses in the summer.

Q: When are specific courses offered?
A: This may vary with each year’s schedule. Typically, three of the four Elementary Core courses – EDI 630, EDI 631, and EDI 633 – are only offered once a year. All other courses are offered at least twice a year. The annual schedule of courses is posted each year on or around March 1, and graduate students may register for the following three semesters later in March.

Education Specialist – Educational Leadership

Q: Who usually enrolls in this program?
A: Our most frequent students are those preparing for district or central office leadership in the pre-K to 12^th grade settings. That said, because the program examines leadership in depth, students studying higher education or those employed in non-profit settings have also been a part of the Education Specialist program and found it to beneficial. Students who finish are eligible for central office endorsement through the Michigan Department of Education.

Q: Why would someone engage in the Education Specialist as opposed to enrolling directly in a doctoral program?
A: The completion rate of doctoral programs historically has been about 50%, and though there may be understandable reasons for that, few professionals will list on their resume beginning a doctoral program but not finishing (refer to this International Journal of Higher Education article for details). By contrast, the Education Specialist is a 30-credit program that culminates in an internship to develop a student’s career and educational goals.

Q: What is the format for instructional delivery?
A: Hybrid-hyflex is the model which means students can either meet in person with professors or zoom into the classroom while others are in person. The hybrid means that in person or virtual meetings take place about once per month in a semester.

Q: How long does it take to complete the program?
A: Students who take one course in the Fall, Winter, and Spring/Summer, can complete the program in just over three years. Students can, however, take more or less time completing the degree (within eight years).

Q: Does this program connect to doctoral programs in Educational Leadership?
A: Yes, Central Michigan University and Eastern Michigan University will accept 90% of the credits from a completed Education Specialist toward their doctoral programs.

Health Administration

Q: What undergraduate degree(s) are accepted for the Master of Health Administration (M.H.A.)?
A: We accept students from any undergraduate or graduate degree program.

Q: What application materials do I have to submit when applying to the M.H.A. program?
A: A complete application to the M.H.A. program includes the following items:

• The GVSU graduate application form
• An official transcript from each undergraduate and graduate institution you have attended
• A short essay on your educational and career objectives, and how attaining an M.H.A. from GVSU will help achieve your objectives (250 to 750 words)
• Your up-to-date resume
• Three references from people who can describe your work and potential for the program, such as professors or work supervisors
• International applications should include official English language test score documentation
• International applications must also include verification of financial support
• We accept standard graduate test scores (such as the GRE), but they are not required

Q: If I don’t have a 3.0 GPA at the undergraduate level, can I still get admitted?
A: Yes, it is possible, though it is best if your GPA was at least 2.8 and you are a US citizen or resident. If your undergraduate GPA was under 3.0, we will consider different factors and you may be admitted with a conditional status. As a conditional student, you will be required to take certain courses with a lighter load and complete all with a minimum 3.0 GPA for those courses. Factors we consider include the pattern of low grades (certain course topics or time period) and evidence of professional growth. If you have a lower GPA, we recommend that you meet with the M.H.A. Program Director to discuss your particular situation. Note that we are unable to admit international applicants with conditional status, so international applications with GPAs under 3.0 are unlikely to be approved.

Q: What are the deadlines for application?
A: We accept applications for Fall and Winter semester starts. The Fall semester start deadline is June 30. The Winter semester start deadline is October 15. Exceptions may be made on an individual basis.

Q: How long does it take to get an admission decision?
A: Admission reviews occur on a rolling basis and typically take one to two weeks.

Q: What types of careers can I pursue with this degree?
A: The majority of recent graduates obtain positions in health care organizations in administrative and management positions, including Practice Manager, Nursing Home Administrator, Compliance Officer, Talent Acquisition Analyst, Risk Management Analyst, Product Manager, and more. Types of organizations where our alumni work include hospitals, health plans, pharmaceutical companies, clinical practice groups, community clinics, and others.

Q: Why choose this program instead of a different degree, such as an M.B.A., M.P.H., M.P.A., or M.S.N.?
A: While health care leaders have completed different degrees, the M.H.A. is the most common and recognized degree for healthcare management and executive positions nationwide. In comparison to M.B.A. and M.P.A. degrees, an M.H.A. provides more health care-specific content. In comparison to M.P.H. and M.S.N. degrees, an M.H.A. provides more management content. The M.H.A. is designed to prepare students to work in a variety of health care settings in management and leadership positions. We have a number of alumni with clinical backgrounds, such as nurses, who moved into management roles within their organizations, sometimes before completing the M.H.A.

Q: How long does it take to complete this degree?
A: The program is six semesters in duration. Students attending full-time (nine credits per semester) in Fall, Winter, and Spring/Summer semesters can complete the program in two years.

Q: Can I pursue this degree fully online?
A: Currently our program is in hybrid format, with courses including a combination of in-person meetings and online coursework. We are exploring a fully online option.

Q: Can you help me fund my degree (assistantships, scholarships)?
A: To learn about scholarships, please visit the GVSU Scholarship page. Many Graduate Assistantships are posted on the Graduate School website. The department has a limited number of Graduate Assistantships available. The application form and process are available on the assistantships portion of the SPNHA website.

Q: When are classes held?
A: Most courses are held on weekday evenings from 6 p.m. until 8:50 p.m. A few courses meet every other Saturday morning. This schedule accommodates most working students.

Q: Can I work full-time while I complete this degree?
A: Yes. About half of current students work full-time.

Q: What are some important things to know about this program?
A: Our M.H.A. program has a number of strengths:

• CAHME accreditation—ensures we meet industry standards for high quality health administration graduate education. Our program is one of only three CAHME-accredited health administration graduate degrees in Michigan
• Executive-in-Residence—a former health system executive teaches courses, advises students, and provides professional guidance to students
• Flexibility—we do not require students to complete the program full-time, and allow students to switch between full-time and part-time study as needed
• Field-based projects—several courses require completion of projects for local organizations, allowing students to get a feel for how implementation happens in real work settings and at different organizations
• Health Professions Graduate Student Alliance—is our graduate student organization and the student chapter for the Great Lakes Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives. The organization provides networking opportunities with local health care leaders, leadership opportunities, and financial support for conference travel
• The number of internships required is based on your healthcare work experience. Those new to the field complete two internships, those with just a few years of experience complete one, and those with six or more years of experience are able to waive both internships. Internships are important means to provide different types of professional experiences and to build students’ professional networks.

Q: Can I start this program in Fall, Winter, or Summer semesters?
A: Students may start the program in Fall semester (August) or Winter semester (January). We do not allow starting the program in the Spring/Summer semester.

Q: What if I can only take one or two classes a semester – is that allowed?
A: Yes, many of our students who work full-time complete one or two courses at a time. Students have up to eight years to complete the degree.

Medical Dosimetry

Q: What are the prerequisite courses for this program?
A: The following courses or their equivalents must be completed prior to admission:

• BMS 250 - Anatomy and Physiology I
• BMS 251 - Anatomy and Physiology II
• PHY 220 - General Physics I with Lab
• PHY 221 - General Physics II with Lab
• RIT 322 - Radiation Biology
• RIT 330 - Radiation Therapy Principles and Practices I
• RIT 331 - Radiation Therapy Principles and Practices I Laboratory
• RIT 401 - Radiologic Information Technology

Q: I do not have a degree in Radiation Therapy, can I apply to the program?
A: Yes, but prerequisite courses do have to be completed. Please visit the following link for non-Radiation Therapy background applicants.

Q: What are the admissions requirements?
A: The following requirements must be met to be considered for admission:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA in the prerequisite coursework and in the last 60 hours of coursework
• Documentation of minimum of 16 hours of volunteer/paid health care experience or two to three hours of job shadowing experience.
• Three recommendations from health professionals must be submitted on university recommended forms located within the graduate application. Separate letters from references are NOT required. Only three references will be accepted.
• Satisfactory individual writing samples are required of all final applicants.
• Foreign-born applicants should be able to communicate well in English. Please see the English Language test requirements.

Q: Can my employer be my clinical site?
A: Yes, but students are not allowed to be paid during clinical education hours. For more information, please review the clinical requirements for Medical Dosimetry.

Q: Can I work full-time and complete the part-time program at the same time?
A: Yes, students can complete this program part-time over the course of five to six semesters.

Occupational Therapy (Doctorate)

Q: What is the difference between an Entry-Level Doctorate (O.T.D.) and a Post-Professional Doctorate (Dr.O.T.) in Occupational Therapy?
A: Entry Level Doctorate (O.T.D.): This degree prepares entry-level or new practitioners. Students typically must hold a bachelor’s degree in any field of study prior to entering an entry-level doctoral program (AOTA, 2015). Post-Professional Doctorate (O.T.D. or Dr.O.T.): This degree prepares occupational therapists who are already credentialed and practicing occupational therapy professionals with skills that are above entry-level. Students must hold a bachelor’s degree in O.T. and a master’s degree in any field of study or O.T., prior to entering a post-professional doctoral program. GVSU distinguishes the post professional doctorate with use of Dr.O.T. (ASAHP, 2007).

Q: What is the application process?
A: Visit the GVSU Dr.O.T. Webpage and click “Apply Now.” You will be prompted to begin an online application. Items to complete include the General Application, three References, Transcripts, Resume, and a Personal Statement. The $30 application fee is waived if you have previously attended GVSU as either an undergraduate or graduate student. New cohorts are accepted two times each academic year, in both Fall and Winter semesters. Deadline for Fall semester applications is August 1. Deadline for Winter semester applications is December 1. After you submit a complete application, the Dr.O.T. program will contact you for an in person or virtual interview and provide a prompt for the writing sample.

Q: Do I need a Master in O.T. to apply?
A: You do need to have a master’s degree but it doesn’t need to be in O.T. For example, you might have a B.A. or B.S. in O.T. and a Master in Business. This program does not currently offer a bridge option from B.A. or B.S. to Dr.O.T., so students do need a master’s degree for the Post-Professional Program at this time.

Q: How long will the program take me?
A: Students complete 36 credit hours over six consecutive semesters (including Spring/Summer semester). Students will graduate in two years. Students may work with their advisor to determine an alternate timeline for degree completion.

Q: Will it be possible to work while completing this program?
A: YES! In fact, we encourage students to work full or part-time as coursework will relate to your professional career path and interests.

Q:  How often do I need to come to campus?
A: Students travel to GVSU two times total during the two-year program, once for orientation and again for the capstone experience. However, if there is a health crisis or other reason that prevents travel and face-to-face meetings, the Dr.O.T. program will provide a distanced opportunity for orientation and capstone.

Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership

Q: What is the difference between a Master of Public Administration with an emphasis in Nonprofit Management and a Master of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership (M.P.N.L.)?
A: The M.P.N.L. program is specifically tailored for individuals who are pursuing a career in the nonprofit sector. Our core focus is on equipping current and future nonprofit staff members with the tools necessary to be successful. The Master of Public Administration program is an excellent program for students who may pursue a career in either government or the nonprofit sector.

Q: I see that the program recommends three years of work experience before applying. Can I still apply if I have less experience?
A: Yes! We encourage everyone who is interested in the program to contact us to discuss your application. Depending upon your level of work experience, we may recommend that you complete an internship as part of your program.

Q: I see that you have two main program emphases – Mission Advancement and Community Impact. I am not sure which emphasis is right for me. Can I customize my program?
A: Yes, a faculty advisor will work with you to tailor a program that best meets your needs!

Q: Can the program be completed entirely online?
A: Yes! Beginning in Fall 2021, you can complete the program online, in-person, or hybrid.

Q: What opportunities are there for students to gain hands-on experience with the nonprofit sector?
A: Numerous courses in our program encourage students to work with nonprofit organizations in the Grand Rapids area and the Nonprofit Graduate Student Organization works hard to connect students with alumni and employers in the area.

Physician Assistant Studies

Q: Does your program offer elective clinical rotations?
A: Yes. Students are given eight weeks of elective rotations, split into two separate rotations.

Q: Does your program offer an international rotation?
A: Yes. We have some international clinical site opportunities for interested students. This would take replace an elective rotation.

Q: Is there a research aspect of your program?
A: Yes. It is embedded in three evidence-based medicine (EBM) courses. Additionally, our faculty are involved in independent research projects.

Q: What is your program's teaching approach?  (PBL, Lecture, Discussion, Systems, etc.)
A: The didactic curriculum is delivered in a system-based approach in which students learn about a specific organ system (e.g., cardiology) in multiple courses using a variety of teaching approaches, including lectures, hands-on laboratory learning, problem-based learning, small group discussion, and clinical observation.

• The Clinical Medicine, Clinical Pathophysiology, and Practical Therapeutics course series are traditional lecture courses taught using telepresence videoconferencing to allow instructors and students at both campuses to interact in real time. Faculty and students can see the students and faculty at the opposite campus via screens in the front and back of the lecture room. Lecture materials are visible on screens at the front of both campuses. Active participation is encouraged between the two campuses, and students can ask questions during lectures and participate in discussions with faculty and students at the distant campus.
• The Clinical Applications course series has a lecture and hands-on laboratory component where students learn history taking, physical examination, and procedural skills.
• The Clinical Problem-Solving Skills course series are small-group discussion courses that use problem-based learning and small-group discussion to apply and reinforce material learned in the lecture courses.
• The Evidence-Based Medicine course series uses a combination of lectures and small group discussions to teach students how to appraise medical literature to solve clinical problems.
• The Hospital Community Experience course series exposes students to various healthcare-related hospital and community experiences to allow students to observe a variety of healthcare professionals in different roles and settings.

The clinical year curriculum includes 12 months of core and elective clinical rotations where students gain hands-on clinical experience to prepare themselves for professional practice.

Q: Is there anything unique about your program that you would like to share with students considering your program?
A: The GVSU PAS program has highly qualified faculty with a broad range of clinical and academic experience. A small student-to-faculty ratio allows students easy access to the faculty. The program also has excellent resources, including dedicated laboratory and classroom space, access to a simulation center, and connections to the local healthcare community. Students who graduate from the GVSU PAS program are successful with excellent national board pass rates and competence in clinical practice.

Q: How many applicants are accepted each year?
A: The Grand Rapids campus accepts 36 applicants, and the Traverse City campus accepts 12 applicants.

Q: Does your program admit students based on rolling admissions?
A: No, our program has one yearly cohort. A cohort is a term used in the GVSU P.A.S. program to signify a group of students who start the program together in the fall and progress through the program until graduation.  Our curriculum is designed so that students enter the program in August and continue through a pre-set didactic curriculum until the end of the December of the following year. Students then enter into the clinical curriculum, which lasts an additional year. Students graduate in December.

Q: What is the CASPer test?
A: The CASPer test is an online situational-based judgment test. This test includes 12 videos and written scenarios. Students are asked to answer a set of exploratory questions about the scenarios. Student responses are evaluated by trained raters to provide a robust and reliable view of personal and professional characteristics important to the GVSU P.A.S. program.

Q: If I was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and, as a result, I could not complete one or more of the application requirements, can I still apply?
A: The GVSU PAS program has created an Academic Request Form (ARF) specific to issues surrounding closures related to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, please view the Admissions Academic Request Form.

Q: Which courses need to be completed by the application deadline?
A: Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Microbiology, Organic Chemistry, and Biochemistry.
*Note: ALL prerequisite requirements must be completed by May in the year of program matriculation.

Public Health

Q: What is the process for applying to the Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) Program?
A: The application process is done completely online. Find the “APPLY NOW!” tab on the homepage of our MPH website.

Q: What prerequisites do I need?
A: No prerequisites are required to be considered for admission to the program.

Q: Is a GRE score required?
A: No GRE score is required to apply to the program.

Q: What types of jobs do you get with a Public Health degree?
A: There are over 1,000 job titles that can be obtained with an M.P.H. degree. Public Health jobs are in a variety of areas including government, policy, advocacy, environmental health, research, global health, nonprofit organizations, hospitals, clinics, health and wellness facilities, academic settings, and more!

Q: How do I learn more information about the program?
A: You may attend an informational session held by the M.P.H. Graduate Program Director, Ranelle Brew (in-person or virtually) to learn more about the program. To RSVP, please visit the About Us section of the MPH website.

Q: What are the differences between the choice of traditional and hybrid delivery methods for the program?
A: The M.P.H. program recognizes that students have different learning styles. The program offers a weekend hybrid program for someone interested in learning online and attending one weekend per semester as well as a traditional, face-to-face program where students attend weekly classes on campus. Both emphasis areas are offered in both formats

School Psychology

Q: What makes an applicant competitive for your program?
A: While the applicant pool varies by year, applicants should have experience working in schools and/or with children/teenagers. They should have a strong academic background (typically 3.4+ undergradaute GPA) and good interpersonal skills. Having a clear understanding of the school psychologist’s role is key and research experience is a bonus, but not a necessity.  

Q: Do you recommend I take the GRE?
A: We currently recommend, but do not require, the GRE (General Test). We specifically recommend that applicants with lower GPAs take the GRE to show the admissions committee another measure of their academic skills.  

Q: How many students apply and how many do you admit?
A: Application numbers vary by year, but we have received 50-70 applications in recent years for cohorts of approximately 12 students.  

Q: What prerequisite classes do I need to take if I wasn’t a psychology major?
A: If you do not have an undergraduate psychology major, we typically look to see Child or Lifespan Development, Statistics, and Research Design courses. We may consider waiving a prerequisite course requirement depending on the applicant’s background.  

Q: What types of financial support can graduate students get? Assistantships, Scholarships, etc.?
A: Scholarships are uncommon, but graduate students can qualify for typical forms of financial aid. Some of our students have Graduate Assistantships (GAs) which provide some tuition coverage and stipends for part-time, paid work experiences in various units at the university. We do not guarantee GAs for students, but will assist them with applying if interested.

Social Work

Q: I did not major in social work. Can I still enter the Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) program?
A: Yes. A student with any undergraduate major can earn their M.S.W. in the Regular Standing Program.

Q: Can I apply for advanced standing?
A: Applicants can apply for advanced standing if they have earned a baccalaureate degree in social work through a CSWE-accredited program within the five years prior to enrollment in the M.S.W. program. Advanced standing students may accelerate their graduate study by completing as few as 38 credit hours of curriculum in one calendar year.

Q: Can I take a M.S.W. course if I have not been admitted to the M.S.W. program?
A: Applicants who are not seeking the M.S.W. degree or have not completed all the admissions requirements are considered to be nondegree-seeking. These students may earn up to six social work credits in the School of Social Work by selecting up to two of the following courses: SW600, SW601, SW610, and SW620.

Q: How many credit hours do I need to complete to earn my M.S.W.?
A: The M.S.W. degree consists of a minimum of 60 credit hours. Advanced standing students are exempted from 22 hours of first-year-core or foundation courses and the first semester of field education and may therefore accelerate their graduate study by completing only the remaining 38 hours of degree requirements in one calendar year.

Q: What is the Weekend Hybrid M.S.W. Program?
A: The Weekend Hybrid M.S.W. program is available to applicants with an accredited B.S.W. and who meet admission criteria. This is a part-time program in which students take two seven-week courses per semester. The courses are offered online with two in person Saturday sessions.

Q: Can I take my M.S.W. courses online?
A: The M.S.W. program is an in-person format program. However, the program does offer sessions of most courses in an online or hybrid format.

Q: Is there an internship requirement to complete the M.S.W. degree?
A: Yes, students are required to complete two semesters (Advanced standing) or three semesters (Regular standing) of Field Education credits to earn their M.S.W. degree.

Q: Can I get course credit for life experiences or previous work experience?
A: The School of Social Work does not grant academic credit for life experience and previous work experience, in whole or in part, in lieu of social work courses.

Q: What will I need to complete my application?
A: You can start your electronic application now, and save it to finish later. To complete it, you will need:

• Official transcripts from all institutions of higher education previously attended, other than Grand Valley, sent from those institutions directly to the GVSU Admissions Office.
• Names and contact information for three references
• Resume detailing work and volunteer experiences
• Coursework requirement form
• Personal Statement (see instructions under Program-specific Application Requirements)
• $30 nonrefundable application fee (unless you have previously applied to Grand Valley)

Taxation

Q: How long does the program take to complete?  
A: 15-36 months (varies).

Q: How many credit hours are required for the degree?
A: 33 credits.

Q: What is the course delivery type?
A: We offer a variety of delivery modalities: in-seat, hybrid, or online. Please talk with the Graduate Program Director regarding the specific program and delivery options.

Q: How much does the program cost?
A: Approximately $30,000 total program costs (this includes tuition, course fees, parking, books, and other supplies).

Q: Are any entry exams required?
A: Currently, the Seidman College of Business is not requiring any entry exams for domestic students. International students may need to take additional exams and should contact the Seidman Graduate Advising Office at [email protected] or by phone at (616) 331-7400.

Q: When is the deadline to apply?
A: A minimum of 30 days prior to the start of the semester.

Q: Do you offer scholarships and financial assistance?
A: Financial assistance is available in the form of federal and private loans and some scholarships, including Graduate Assistantship opportunities.

Q: What program prerequisites are needed?
A: The MST program accepts students from all undergraduate majors. Students who did not complete an undergraduate degree in Accounting may need prerequisite courses that can add to overall program requirements. Please meet with the Graduate Program Director to receive an individual transcript review.

Graduate Assistantships (GA)

Q: How and when do I apply for a GA position?
A: Many units/departments start their search for GAs between February and April for the next academic year. Graduate Assistantship hiring is handled by individual programs, units, and departments. Thus, prospective students should contact their Graduate Program Director to express an interest in a GA position in their academic program at the time of their admission. The application process varies by unit/department, but most will ask for a cover letter, resume, and references. Some units/departments may use their own application form.

Q: Where can I find the official, up-to-date list of available GA positions?
A: There is no central location for an official list of available Graduate Assistant positions. Most academic programs hire students directly from their programs to fill their GA positions, thus they do not advertise their GA job openings other than via their internal communication with their own students. 

The Graduate School posts Graduate Assistantship openings for programs/units/departments on our GA job openings web page upon request. Applicants must follow the instructions on each posting to apply. New postings may be added at any time. Please note this is not an all-encompassing list of available GA positions.

Q: What is the total number of GA positions available at GVSU?
A: The total number of base-funded GA positions is 224. However, many programs/units/departments split their 1.0 FTE positions into half-time (.5 FTE) positions. Thus, during the academic year, over 300 individual students may be employed as a Graduate Assistant.

Q: May I apply for more than one GA position at a time?
A: Students may apply to more than one GA position at a time. Graduate Assistantships are highly competitive so it would benefit the applicant to have several options.

Q: May I apply for any GA position for which I am reasonably qualified?
A: Students may apply for any GA position for which they meet the minimum qualifications as listed in the GA job posting/position description.

Q: Does the process of GA application review differ from department to department?
A: The process of GA application review varies by program/unit/department. Some have a committee of faculty and staff that reviews and interviews applicants, with several steps involved in the screening and placement process within the unit. Others may have one individual handle the review, screening, interviewing, and hiring.

Q: If I am in a combined degree program, is it possible to be a GA during my senior year?
A: No. Students in combined degree programs must have achieved graduate student status, either by:

1. completing the undergraduate degree,
2. completing 12 graduate credits, or
3. upon approval by the Graduate Program Director and Academic Dean.

​​​​​​​If the student is listed as a senior in Banner, they are not eligible for a Graduate Assistantship.