Graduate Studies Application SAN ANTONIO HOUSTON RIO GRANDE VALLEY
Our Lady of the Lake University offers nationally recognized graduate programs in Business, Communication and Learning Disorders, Education, English, Human Sciences, Information Systems and Security, Leadership Studies, Nonprofit Management, Psychology, Special Education and Social Work. The programs are designed for working adults with most classes offered in the evenings and some programs offered exclusively through our Weekend College or Online Programs. Message from the Deans College of Arts and Sciences The College of Arts and Sciences is the heart of OLLU s liberal arts education. At the graduate level, the College offers the Master of Arts in English with five concentrations the most of any local university that include a focus on literature, communication arts, education and writing. The five concentrations are: Communication Arts English Education Language and Literature (non-thesis option) Language and Literature (thesis option) Writing With small classes, a distinguished faculty and a flexible program schedule, OLLU stands apart as a smart choice for earning your master s in English. Christopher Dyer, PhD Dean, College of Arts and Sciences School of Business and Leadership The School of Business and Leadership (SBL) offers master s degrees in business, computer information systems and security, accounting, organizational leadership and non-profit management. In addition, an interdisciplinary doctorate in leadership studies is offered. All SBL graduate and doctoral programs are designed for non-traditional, working adult students. They are offered in an every other weekend face-to-face format and/or online. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of most programs, students will become part of a rich learning community. High impact learning practices are used in most courses. Therefore, some classes require team or group meetings to be held outside of the regular classroom hours. Students will find the interactions and relationships developed with classmates will result in a lasting impact on their professional careers. Robert Bisking, PhD Dean, School of Business and Leadership School of Professional Studies The School of Professional Studies (SPS) offers three master s degrees (M.Ed., M.A., M.S.) in the professional fields of education, communication disorders, and psychology, and a non-clinical interdisciplinary program in human sciences. The School also offers the PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) degree in Counseling Psychology. Specializations for the M.Ed. degree include Curriculum and Instruction, Learning Resource Specialist, School Counseling, School Principal or the alternative initial certification program. The M.A. degree is offered in Special Education, Communication Disorders or Human Sciences. The M.S. is offered in Psychology with specializations in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy, or School Psychology. The clinical programs are accredited by their respective professional accrediting bodies, and graduate students are provided opportunities for research, field experiences, and practica to enhance their preparation as future practitioners. They are taught and mentored by credentialed faculty and clinicians who remain current through scholarly activity and ongoing professional development. The Psychology and Communication Disorders programs are traditional, full-time graduate programs. Other degree programs are offered on a part-time, weekend/evening and/or online format. Worden School of Social Service The Worden School of Social Service offers a master of social work (MSW) degree with options for a regular (54-unit) or advanced standing (31-unit) program for applicants who hold a BSW degree. Options for full and part-time study are available. Founded in 1942 as the first school of social work in Texas, the Worden School is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Sensitivity to cultural and ethnic differences is the hallmark of the Worden School s mission and commitment to working with at-risk populations, with special emphasis on Hispanic children and families. The MSW degree prepares students for advanced social work practice in settings such as mental health, schools, child protective services, juvenile probation, emergency assistance and family services. Worden School graduates are also prepared for careers in forensic social work, legal settings, state and local legislatures, human resources, human service management and employee assistance programs. Walter E. Calvo, DBA, DCSW Director, Worden School of Social Service Teresita E. Aguilar, PhD Dean, School of Professional Studies 210-431-3961 800-436-6558 ollusa.edu Graduate Admissions 411 S.W. 24th Street San Antonio, TX 78207 2
GRADUATE PROGRAMS and Admissions Requirements All candidates for admission to any OLLU master s program must fulfill the following general admission requirements: Complete an OLLU application for admission Submit the $25 application fee Submit proof of an earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution Submit official transcripts from all accredited institutions attended Have a grade point average of 2.50 for all undergraduate work (2.75 for MEd program and 2.75 for MA Special Education program) or 3.00 for the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate work Provide an official score report from the Miller Analogies Test (MAT), Graduate Record Exam Aptitude Test (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) depending on field (see individual field of study), taken within the last five years Submission of credentials specified for the type of admission sought Additional Requirements based on degree program In addition to the general admission requirements, candidates must fulfill admission requirements specific to the program of study For special admission the student must submit: Transient students: A letter of good standing verifying master s status at another institution in which the student is currently enrolled and letter of intent or Special interest students: An official transcript verifying the student holds a degree at the bachelor s level or higher International students: Contact the University s Office of International Admissions for specific requirements 210-431-3978 direct phone 800-436-6558 or International Access Code+800-436-6558 210-431-4036 fax international@ollusa.edu BUSINESS Master of Business Administration Concentrations include: Accounting/Finance Healthcare Management Management These programs focus on enhancing skills in decision-making and problem-solving behavior for professional administrators. The program is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs. CERTIFICATES Healthcare Management, Accounting/Finance, Management Dual Degrees MBA/MS Organizational Leadership PhD Leadership Studies/MBA Admissions requirements Appropriate preparation for graduate study in business, as demonstrated by both undergraduate training and managerial experience; satisfactory score on MAT, GRE or GMAT; list of three references with names and contact information; résumé with detailed work history COMMUNICATION AND LEARNING DISORDERS Master of Arts This degree prepares professionals for service careers in speech-language pathology. Students conduct research in the field of communication sciences and disorders while providing direct services to individuals with communication impairments. The program is accredited by the Council for Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Admissions requirements Summer and Fall admission only; all admission materials must be turned in by Feb. 1 Appropriate bachelor s degree in communication disorders/speech pathology or undergraduate speech language pathology preparation; official score on MAT or GRE; two letters of recommendation not more than one year old from persons knowledgeable of professional potential, or from professionals or academicians in speech language pathology (forms supplied by the University); interview by department faculty EDUCATION Master of Education Specializations include: Curriculum and instruction Bilingual Early Childhood English as a Second Language Integrated Math Teaching Integrated Science Teaching Master Reading Teacher Master Technology Teacher Reading Specialist Learning Resources Specialist Principal School Counseling These programs are for certified teachers who are seeking additional expertise in a specialty area. Master of Arts - Special Education Concentrations include: Early Childhood Educational Diagnostician Generic Severely Emotionally Disturbed and Autistic Severe to Profound Handicapped The degree offers training through diverse instructional techniques and approaches through case studies and simulations which enhance professional development. EDUCATION con t 3
GRADUATE PROGRAMS and Admissions Requirements cont d EDUCATION con t Post-Master s Degree Texas State Professional Certifications (Education) (Texas Teacher Certification Required) Principal School Librarian Reading Specialist School Counselor Master Reading Teacher Master Technology Teacher Educational Diagnostician Education and Special Education MEd and MA Special Education Appropriate undergraduate preparation for advanced study at the master s level; official score on GRE or MAT; two letters of recommendation not more than one year old from persons knowledgeable of your professional potential (forms supplied by the University) ; interview by faculty (required for MEd Principal, MEd School Counseling and MA Special Education only); a copy of Texas Teacher Certification (not required for MEd Learning Resources and MEd School Counseling; may substitute documentation of two years of classroom experience as teacher of record in an accredited public/ private school setting; must provide verification of local and state Criminal History Records); for MEd Master Technology Teacher concentration, evidence of Technology Application Standards knowledge and skills must be submitted EDUCATION con t Master of Education Non-Traditional Certification (MENTC) Early Elementary Education Bilingual Education Early Childhood Education Professional Studies Generic Special Education Intermediate Education Math/Science Education Professional Studies Secondary Education Math/Science Education Professional Studies These programs are for degreed professionals who want to transition to the teaching field. Students earn a master s degree and gain the eligibility to take the Texas state teacher certification exam. The program emphasizes critical needs areas of secondary math or science, special education and bilingual education. Appropriate undergraduate preparation for advanced study at the master s level; official score on GRE; two letters of recommendation not more than one year old from persons knowledgeable (college instructors or relevant employers) of professional potential (forms supplied by the University); interview by faculty; personal statement; résumé; verification of local and state Criminal History Records ENGLISH Master of Arts Concentrations include: Communication Arts English Education Language and Literature (non-thesis option) Language and Literature (thesis option) Writing Locally, OLLU offers the most diverse array of options for graduate study in English. Students may pick a program they are passionate about from five distinct concentrations and choose from varied and evolving course offerings. Writer in Residence Sandra Cisneros works with students through class presentations, lectures and readings and through the University s annual Literary Festival. Through these programs and the visiting writers program, students are able to interact with nationally known writers and literary artists. Eighteen advanced hours of undergraduate English or communication arts course work; satisfactory score on GRE or MAT; two letters of recommendation attesting to the student s potential for success in a graduate English program not more than one year old from persons knowledgeable (college instructors or relevant employers) of professional potential (forms supplied by the University). Students who earn a minor in English at OLLU and earn a 3.0 GPA or above in at least 12 advanced English hours are also eligible. Graduate Programs and admission requirements continue on page 5 210-431-3961 800-436-6558 ollusa.edu Graduate Admissions 411 S.W. 24th Street San Antonio, TX 78207 4
GRADUATE PROGRAMS and Admissions Requirements cont d HUMAN SCIENCES Master of Arts (interdisciplinary degree) Students can select two areas of concentration from education, organizational leadership, psychology or sociology. This degree provides intensive interdisciplinary education in the practical and ethical use of the theory and methodology of the human social behavioral sciences. The degree is intended to enhance the knowledge and skills of nonclinical professionals so that they may make a positive contribution to the community. Satisfactory score on GRE or MAT; submit a personal statement of at least two typed, double spaced pages detailing preparation to undertake the degree and reasons for wishing to complete the degree; two letters of recommendation not more than one year old from persons knowledgeable (college instructors or relevant employers) of professional potential (forms supplied by the University); interview with members of the Human Sciences program faculty INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND SECURITY Master of Science Concentrations include: Business Management Information Assurance and Security Information Systems Certified by the National Security Agency, the degree prepares information technology professionals to assume technical management positions requiring advanced preparation. CERTIFICATES Information Assurance and Security Undergraduate degree in a technical discipline; an undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0 overall and a 3.2 in the major field of study; a satisfactory score on GRE or GMAT LEADERSHIP STUDIES Master of Science The master s degree in organizational leadership enables students to understand a wide variety of issues that impact leadership in organizations and communities. It provides students with knowledge and skills for entry into leadership roles. Dual Degrees MBA/MS Organizational Leadership Satisfactory score on GRE, MAT or GMAT; résumé detailing professional work experience; personal statement of three to five, double-spaced typed pages describing long-range professional and scholarly interests NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT Master of Science This online degree program prepares students for leadership in the unique environment of nonprofit entities. Emphasis is on the administration, management, marketing, financial decision making and strategic planning needed to lead in the nonprofit sector. Satisfactory score on GRE, MAT or GMAT; two letters of recommendation from persons knowledgeable about the student s managerial and/or professional performance (forms supplied by the University) PSYCHOLOGY Master of Science Concentrations in: Counseling Psychology Marriage and Family Therapy School Psychology CERTIFICATES Psychological Services for Spanish Speaking Populations Violence Prevention and Intervention, Level II Fall admission only; materials must be turned in by March 1 (priority) and June 1 (final) At least 12 undergraduate semester hours in psychology including one course in statistics and a cumulative average of a B or better; two letters of recommendation not more than a year old from former instructors or employers (forms supplied by the University); after review of the completed admissions files, selected applicants will be invited to a group interview with psychology program faculty SOCIAL WORK Master of Social Work The MSW program prepares students for social work practice with an emphasis on practice with Hispanics. Students are afforded an opportunity to complete a concentration in Services to Children and Families Program OptionS: Advanced Standing (31 Semester hours) Regular Standing (54 Semester Hours) 54 Semester-Hour Program Admission is in the fall only Personal statement of at least five typewritten, double-spaced pages addressing the following: motivation for graduate studies, motivation for social work, social work related experiences, social work career goals, and understanding of the Worden School of Social Service mission; résumé; three letters of recommendation not more than one year old (at least one from an academician, others from employers or supervisors); at least 30 semester hours in liberal arts, including human biology. 31 Semester-Hour Program Admission is in the fall or spring Same as for 54-hour program, plus baccalaureate degree with social work major from an institution accredited by the Council on Social Work Education; minimum grade point average of 3.00 in social work major in both academic and practicum courses. NOTE: Detailed admission requirements are provided in the University s Graduate Catalog. Visit www.ollusa.edu/catalogs. 5
GRADUATE PROGRAMS and Admissions Requirements Doctor of Philosophy The PhD in leadership studies degree enhances the leadership skills of dedicated professionals in a wide range of fields, including education, business, military and healthcare administration. The degree combines theory and research to graduate practitioner-scholars who can provide enlightened leadership in the workplace and community. Dual Degrees PhD Leadership Studies/MBA A minimum of 3.3 grade point average on a 4.0 scale in all previous graduate work Official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT), or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) taken within the last five years At least three letters of professional recommendation from individuals who can attest to the applicant s leadership qualities and potential A complete résumé, detailing at least the last five years of full-time professional work experience Evidence of administrative, leadership and developmental performance, such as graduate course papers, performance evaluations, published materials, licenses, certifications and job-related reports or analyses Personal statement of three to five double-spaced typed pages describing long-range professional and scholarly interests Doctor of Psychology The PsyD specializes in counseling psychology and emphasizes the practice of psychology. The program is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association. OLLU s Community Counseling Service serves as the primary training site for master s and doctoral degree counseling psychology trainees and addresses the underserved counseling needs of the Westside San Antonio community. Fall admission only; all admission materials must be turned in by Jan. 15 For Applicants with Master s Degrees Evidence of a master s degree in psychology or a closely related discipline of at least 45 semester hours from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants who have earned a master s degree of less than 45 semester hours or in a field other than psychology may apply but should expect to do leveling coursework in addition to the doctoral requirements. Cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher in the master s program A satisfactory score on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Verbal and Quantitative tests taken within the last five years A satisfactory score on the Graduate Record Examination Psychology subject test taken within the last five years Three letters of recommendation not more than one year old from persons knowledgeable of professional potential, with at least one from a former professor who can attest to the applicant s promise as a professional psychologist (forms supplied by the University) Evidence of pertinent professional experience A personal statement of background in psychology and expectations of doctoral program For Applicants with Bachelor s Degrees Evidence of a bachelor s degree in psychology or a closely related discipline from a regionally accredited institution, with a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher, or 3.75 or higher for last 60 hours, or 3.75 or higher for courses in psychology major At least 18 undergraduate semester hours in psychology including courses in: Statistics, Research Methods, Social Psychology, Developmental, Abnormal, Counseling Skills or Personality Theories A combined score of at least 1000 on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Verbal and Quantitative tests taken within the last five years A score of at least 520 on the GRE Psychology subject test taken within the last five years Three letters of recommendation not more than one year old from persons knowledgeable of professional potential, with at least one from a former professor who can attest to the applicant s promise as a professional psychologist (forms supplied by the University) Evidence of pertinent practica, volunteer or work experience Personal statement of background in psychology and expectations of doctoral FINANCIAL SUPPORT Scholarships, grants, graduate assistantships and financial aid are available for graduate students. University scholarships and assistantships are supplemented by private scholarships and federal and state grants and financial aid. Federal financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are exhausted. You should begin the application process at the same time that you apply to the graduate program. To be considered for financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Please list Our Lady of the Lake University, federal school code #003598, as one of the schools to receive your application information. 210-431-3961 800-436-6558 ollusa.edu Graduate Admissions 411 S.W. 24th Street San Antonio, TX 78207 6
THE UNIVERSITY THE UNIVERSITY Our Lady of the Lake University is a private, Catholic co-educational university with an enrollment of approximately 2,700 students. The University was founded in 1895 by the Congregation of Divine Providence, which continues sponsorship. The main campus is located just three minutes from downtown San Antonio and offers day, evening and weekend graduate programs. The Houston campus is located in north Houston and offers weekend graduate programs. The Rio Grande Valley campus is located in Harlingen and offers weekend graduate programs. OLLU offers 33 bachelor s degree programs, 14 master s degree programs and two doctoral degree programs. Academic programs are offered through the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Leadership, the School of Professional Studies and the Worden School of Social Service. GRADUATE TESTING The Miller Analogies Test is administered at the OLLU Assessment Center. Contact the center at least three weeks before your application deadline to arrange for testing. Walter Student Service Center, Room GO3 210-431-3998 or 800-436-6558, ext. 2331 E-mail: peredan@ollusa.edu Testing locations and registration information for other exams may be found at www.ollusa.edu/gradrequirements The University offers classes in daytime, evening, weekend and online formats. Weekend programs offer adults the opportunity to earn a degree while working during the week. OLLU pioneered the weekend degree program concept in San Antonio more than 30 years ago, meeting the needs of students desiring a non-traditional class scheduling format. Our Lady of the Lake University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award bachelor s, master s and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679- 4500 for questions about the accreditation of Our Lady of the Lake University. 7
SAN ANTONIO HOUSTON RIO GRANDE VALLEY Houston Campus 2700 W. W. Thorne Drive Houston, Texas 77073 San Antonio Campus 411 S.W. 24th Street San Antonio, Texas 78207 800-436-6558 gradadm@ollusa.edu www.ollusa.edu Rio Grande Valley 1902 North Loop 499 Harlingen, Texas 78550