| |
Department of Leadership in Education, Language, & Human Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions
Do the advanced graduate programs require the GRE exam?
No. We do not require the GRE (or any other external exam) because we have found that exam scores do not correlate with success at DePaul. a good score on an external exam might influence an application which had other weaknesses, but it is not required.
What do you look for in an application to the the Advanced Graduate Programs?
Generally, we look for evidence of three things: academic ability to do graduate work, a work ethic which will sustain you through a graduate program, and the ability to work with and/or teach students. To determine this, we look carefully at all of your application materials, but especially at your personal statement and at your references. So you should make sure that your application materials cover our three areas of concern and that they give a good picture of the strengths which you will bring to the program. Specific programs (e.g., Human Services and Counseling) look for additional qualities.
Will DePaul accept graduate transfer credits?
Yes. You can petition to have the School of Education give you credit for up to two graduate courses which you have taken elsewhere. A form for this petition is available from the Advanced Graduate Programs Office. Keep in mind, however, that these credits may or may not count towards the requirements of your program. So when and if your petition is granted, you should be sure to see an advanced programs advisor to see how your program requirements will be affected. For further information contact Meredith Slocum or 773-325-4350.
What is the deadline for admissions? Do you use "rolling admissions"?
Some programs admit on a "rolling admissions" basis, but others have specific deadlines. Click on this link to learn more about application deadlines. Generally it takes a couple of weeks after all your papers are in before you receive an acceptance letter, though sometimes it takes a little longer in late July and August. But notice the phrase "after all your papers are in." It may be a long time after you apply before we receive letters of reference and transcripts.
May I start classes before I am fully admitted?
Yes. As soon as you give us a completed application form and the admissions fee, you will be entered into the system. You are then eligible to register even if you have not been fully admitted. But you may only do this for one quarter, and using this option DOES NOT ensure admission into the program. Be sure to check admission requirements for the program you apply for. In general, it is good idea to get the admissions process started as soon as you can and follow up to make sure that letters of recommendation and transcripts have been sent.
Financial Aid
Can I get financial aid to help defray the cost of tuition?
Sometimes, but financial aid for students in master's programs is limited. Occasionally, students are able to get financial aid from external sources. To find out more about financial aid you should consult the Financial Aid office.
Do I qualify for a student loan?
Yes. This is the primary form of financial aid. Again, consult the Financial Aid office for information about how to fill out applications for student loans.
Do graduate students qualify for graduate assistantships?
The School of Education has a small number of graduate assistantships for full-time students. Applications for these highly competitive positions are generally due in March or April for the following year. Read more online.
Scheduling
How long does it usually take to complete the program?
This depends on you. Three years is a general guide for most people, though some take longer and a few finish more quickly. Most programs requires 13 courses. Many people start with one course per quarter, and later take two per quarter. Check with individual programs for requirements.
Can I begin the Masters program while while I am still working?
Yes. We expect that our students will be working full time outside the home, as teachers, administrators, or professionals in other positions. Since all of our Master's courses are offered in the evening, it is possible to complete the whole program without taking a leave from your job.
What is a full course load for a person who works full-time?
We consider two courses to be a full load, especially for those who have responsibilities elsewhere.
Are programs offered at one of DePaul's suburban campuses?
The Educational Leadership program offers core courses at the O'Hare Campus.
In addition, there are three required social/cultural foundations courses that are offered at our Naperville campus. If these fit into your schedule, you may wish to take them there.
How many courses do I need to complete a
Master's degree?
13 courses of 4 quarter hours each are required for a master's degree.
Each four hour course should meet for 30 hours plus a meeting for exams
or final wrap-up if there is no final exam.
What time of day do classes usually m
et?
Do you have any daytime or weekend classes?
Almost all of our graduate courses meet once a week in the evenings
for three hours from 5:30 - 8:30. A few classes meet during the day and
a few on Saturdays, but Curriculum Studies students are not likely to take
these courses.
What is the system of credits at DePaul?
Each course that we teach is a 4 quarter hour course. So that
means you have to take (and pay for) 52 hours. (Note: DePaul is on a quarter
hour system. Many universities use semester hours. One semester hour =
1.5 quarter hours.)
What is the academic calendar at DePaul?
How long does a course last?
You can find the academic calendar on-line. Roughly, Autumn quarter
is September - November; Winter is January - March; and Spring is late
March through mid June. Summer quarters are intensive, usually 3 hours
twice a week for 5 weeks.
Research Requirement
What is the difference between an M.A. and an M.Ed.?
An M.A. requires a Master's thesis and an oral examination on the thesis. An M.Ed. requires master's papers or a Capstone Experience. Check with individual programs for specific requirements.
Is there any difference between an M.A. and an M.Ed. as far as marketability and respectability are concerned?
This is difficult to answer because it depends on whom you talk to and where you plan to work. Most people would answer, "No." Some people, especially those who do not know the field, perceive that an M.A. is more prestigious. From our perspective, both degrees require serious work and are equally prestigious.
Which should I choose, an M.A. or an M.Ed.?
This depends on you. The thesis is generally a year-long process, and it must involve a committee of at least three faculty members. Although it can be an extremely valuable experience, it requires time and commitment for you to make the most of the process. The Capstone Experience can be planned earlier in your program and, if you are well organized, completed by the end of your program. Fortunately you do not need to decide until you are well into the program.
How do I get started on a thesis?
Since you cannot register for the thesis course until you have a thesis advisor, you first must get someone to agree to be your advisor. A good way to approach this is to prepare a short proposal and discuss it with the person you think you want to convince to become your advisor. More details are in the thesis handbook (scroll down to MA Thesis). You can also obtain a copy from the Advanced Graduate Programs Office (SAC 481).
Professional Credentials
What professional credentials can I earn through my program?
Each program leads to different credentials. Programs lead to the following credentials for educators:
- Bilingual/Bicultural Education: Approval or endorsement in bilingual education or ESL
- Curriculum Studies:Approval or endorsement in bilingual education or ESL; middle school math endorsement, reading teacher endorsement
- Educational Leadership: Type 75 Certificate, General Administrative endorsement
- Human Services and Counseling: Type 73 Certificate, School Counselor endorsement
- Language, Literacy, and Specialized Instruction: Type 10 Certificate, Reading Specialist endorsement
Some concentrations in the Human Services and Counseling Program lead not to a teaching credential but to State Licensure. Check the program for further details.
©2002 DePaul University, 1 E. Jackson, Chicago, IL 60604 | Disclaimer
| Site Index
|
