Graduate College of Professional Studies

Established in 1975, the College of Professional Studies awards graduate degrees in the areas of organizational studies, information systems and public management. The College fosters the professional development of its students by providing a collaborative, project-oriented learning environment that emphasizes both theoretical mastery and practical application of technical expertise. USF's College of Professional Studies has more than 19,000 alumni.

Programs and courses offered through the College are designed to meet the special needs of a student population of working adults. In recognition of these needs, the University provides a professional academic advising staff experienced in assisting students to prepare for an intensive college program. Courses are scheduled throughout the year and generally follow the traditional academic calendar. Typically taught in four-hour sessions held once a week, the length of study for graduate degree programs varies from 23 to 27 months depending on the program requirements. Students attend classes in San Francisco and at four regional campuses in Northern California. Classes are small, providing individual attention and an emphasis on personal and professional growth. Instructors use a variety of teaching methods including case studies, problem-solving presentations, group discussions, lectures, field observations, online learning and independent study. In addition to class time, students can expect to devote an average of 12-15 hours per week to class preparation.

Please visit the college's website at: www.cps.usfca.edu

Purpose and Goals

• To demonstrate a commitment to the mission and goals of Jesuit education, including the promotion of lifelong learning
• To provide an educational experience that emphasizes and fosters leadership, ethical responsibility, and service to the community
• To create a participatory learning environment that integrates, in a seminar format, classroom and experiential learning
• To provide academic advising and planning that facilitates students' successful achievement of their academic and career goals
• To provide and maintain administrative support services consistent with the special needs of adult learners

Graduate Admission Requirements

Admission to graduate programs in the College of Professional Studies is based on five factors:

1. Evidence of ability to do quality graduate level work
2. Resume describing administrative or managerial experience
3. Statement of purpose and career goals
4. Two letters of recommendation
5. For international students: TOEFL score

Evidence of Ability to do Quality Graduate Work

Evidence of academic ability is based on the applicant's official transcripts of collegiate work. The candidate must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university and must have both a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 and a 3.0 in the last 60 graded undergraduate units of the bachelor's degree. In order to be official, transcripts must be sent directly from the college or university to the USF Admissions Office. Applicants who have a lower GPA than required, but can demonstrate a record of competent professional performance, may be considered for conditional admission.

Resume Describing Administrative or Managerial Experience

The applicant must have a minimum of two years of administrative or managerial experience. Various kinds of supervisory, administrative and management experience may be acceptable. It is helpful if the applicant provides specific details in the resume as to the amount and type of administrative experience acquired in particular positions, e.g., number of people supervised, the size of the budget administered and the functions for which he or she was responsible.

The Statement of Purpose is a three- to five-page typewritten document that describes the applicant's reasons for pursuing a master's degree and why the applicant has chosen a specific graduate program. The applicant must also provide an explanation of how the program will be helpful in enhancing a current position and/or in achieving career goals.

Letters of Recommendation

The two letters of recommendation should come from individuals who can attest to the applicant's professional competence and ability to perform well in a graduate program.

International Students TOEFL or IELTS

All international applicants to CPS graduate programs must pass the TOEFL with a score of at least 570 (paper test), 230 (CBT), or 88 (Internet); or the IELTS with a 7.0 minimum in all categories.

Minimum Computer Requirements

Students must have computer access at home. For current computer requirements, please see: www.cps.usfca.edu/online/needs.htm

To learn more:

• Please see USF Regional Campuses.
• Please see Master of Nonprofit Administration.
• Please see Master of Public Administration with an emphasis in Health Services Administration.
• Please see Master of Science in Information Systems.
• Please see Master of Science in Organization Development.
• Please see Master of Science in Project Management.
• Request Information
• Apply Online