Achieve Information for Graduate and Professional Students www.govst.edu
A Special Message from THE PRESIDENT Welcome to Governors State University. Congratulations on your decision to pursue the highest academic degrees in the land. We provide fully accredited master s and doctoral degrees that meet top standards. Our faculty members are respected researchers, scholars, and teachers, who are eager to share their passion for learning. Class sizes are small, providing excellent opportunities for faculty/student interactions. The diversity of our university creates a vibrant learning environment. GSU s atmosphere fosters the global ideas and real-world solutions that make our university such an extraordinary place. While studying for your degree, you can share your interests with other students, both undergraduate and graduate, and gain valuable leadership experience in more than 60 campus clubs and organizations. GSU offers unlimited opportunities both in education and in personal growth. Enjoy a dynamic student life as you pursue advanced degrees. I look forward to welcoming you to campus, or welcoming you back to your alma mater. Sincerely, Photos: Bruce Crooks, Tammy Leathem. 2 Elaine P. Maimon, Ph.D. President, Governors State University
Earn at Governors State University 3
Tradition OF EXCELLENCE THE Value OF A GRADUATE DEGREE HAS NEVER BEEN GREATER. In today s demanding job market, qualifications are the key to employment success and career advancement. A graduate degree from Governors State University is what your future demands. GSU is a public university with a long history and a strong commitment to providing the region with highly qualified professionals in education, healthcare, business, management, technology, and the arts and sciences. Whether you are expanding your qualifications, honing your skills, or advancing your opportunities, GSU graduate programs comprise all fields of study and lead to transformed futures. GSU understands what you need. You need choices GSU has 28 master s, one specialist, and six doctorate programs to choose from. You need convenience Classes at GSU are offered when you need them: days, evenings, weekends, online, and at satellite locations. You need affordability GSU s graduate tuition is one of the most affordable in Illinois. You need excellence GSU has the faculty, staff, facilities, and programs that provide it. 4
Success by Leadership Successful leaders work across disciplines with ease, incorporate research and data-driven decision-making in their work, and collaborate effectively with others. The Interdisciplinary Leadership doctorate prepares you to meet these challenges in Education, Not-for-profit Social Entrepreneurship, and Public Safety. Success by Experience Graduates of GSU s Master of Arts in Educational Administration program currently hold leadership positions in school districts throughout the Chicago region and Illinois. The new Principal Leadership Program builds on this success, adding extensive mentoring and leadership development components. Success by Innovation Graduate programs in the arts and sciences, from Independent Film and Digital Imaging to Environmental Biology and Analytical Chemistry, prepare innovative thinkers ready to challenge the status quo with their vision and discoveries. The innovative online, accelerated MBA in Supply Chain Management develops the advanced skills needed in the global marketplace. Success by Opportunity Professional doctorates in Nursing Practice, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy, and master s degrees in Counseling, Nursing, Psychology, and Communication Disorders help fill a growing regional demand for fully trained healthcare professionals. 5
Deborah Bordelon Dean of Graduate Studies Congratulations on taking the next step in your education. You may already have a degree from GSU or you may be exploring new educational possibilities. In either case, welcome to Graduate Studies at Governors State University. We offer more than 35 master s and doctoral programs. Our highly qualified faculty is committed to providing engaging educational and research experiences with an emphasis on student learning and real world applications. Our small class sizes offer opportunities for enriching dialogue, interaction, and mentoring relationships. We recognize that many of our students have numerous professional and personal responsibilities so we offer classes evenings, weekends, as hybrids, and online. At GSU, you will enjoy many opportunities to enhance your educational experience with graduate seminars, lectures by nationally recognized leaders from diverse fields, a wide variety of entertainment and cultural exhibits, performances at our Center for Performing Arts, and programs at our nationally recognized Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park. Explore our website. Visit us on campus. Learn about the opportunities awaiting you at GSU. Warm regards, Deborah Bordelon, Ph.D. Dean, College of Education Dean, Graduate Studies 6
Graduate Degrees EARNING POWER Median weekly earnings in 2012 ($) Unemployment rate in 2012 (%) Doctoral degree 2.5 2.1 1,624 Professional degree 3.5 1,735 1,300 Master s degree Bachelor s degree 4.5 1,066 All workers: $815 All workers 6.8% Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey WHERE DO YOU SEE yourself? GSU graduate and professional programs lead to success in today s complex society and global economy. GSU alumni are business leaders, elected officials, entrepreneurs, scientists, authors, artists, and professionals in healthcare, social services, and education. 7
Demonstrated Success GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL GSU ALUMNI GSU Graduate programs focus on experiential learning. Students work closely with senior faculty on research projects leading to presentation and publishing opportunities and the opportunity to experience professional activities within their disciplines. Gale Filter (MPA 75) preserved the Pacific s natural wonders as the former executive director of the San Diego Coastkeeer, a not-for-profit group dedicated to preservation of waterways and coastal areas in southwest California. 8
Brian Hawkins (MHA 94) provides the best healthcare to America s Veterans as Medical Director of the Washington VA Medical Center with 2,000 employees and 80,000 veterans enrolled for care. Hawkins financed his graduate education at GSU with money he earned in the National Guard. Mercedes Kane (MFA 09) captures the heartache and hope in Haiti on film as an independent filmmaker in Today We Saw the Face of God, winner of the Best Documentary Film, Illinois International Film Festival 2012, and winner of the MADA award, Commffest Global Community Film Festival 2012. Lenell Navarre (MA 99) Superintendent of Bloom Township High School District 206, Chicago Heights, IL. Before becoming superintendent, Dr. Navarre served the school district in a variety of roles. He was the interim and assistant superintendent. He was also principal of the district s alternative school for three years before he was promoted to assistant principal at Bloom High School and then principal. 9
Inspiring Learning MEET SOME OUTSTANDING GSU FACULTY Jennifer Armstrong Assistant Professor Communication Disorders Ph.D., University of Illinois, 06 M.A., Hampton University, 97 B.A., Hampton University, 92 College of Health and Human Services Dr. Armstrong developed a series of popular student run language and literacy workshops for parents and educators as part of her research into the role that education and service learning play in the prevention of speech and language disorders. Everyone benefits from her innovative teaching methods. Lisa Chang Professor Education Ph.D.,Cornell University, 97 M.Ed.,State University of New York, 72 B.S., Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan, 69 College of Education Dr. Chang is truly a gifted educator capable of encouraging and inspiring future teachers. Her commitment to local communities is evident in her work in the elementary schools promoting mathematics education. Barbara Gormley Assistant Professor Psychology Ph.D., Michigan State University, 02 M. A., Central Michigan University, 96 A. B., University of Michigan, 84 College of Education Dr. Gormley maintains high expectations for her students, but is always willing to provide the necessary supports for success. She effectively weaves professional experiences into her courses to bring to life the concepts being taught. Walter Henne Assistant Professor Analytical Chemistry Ph.D., Purdue University, 07 M.S., Governors State University, 99 B.S., Governors State University, 96 10 College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Henne is actively engaged in cancer drug development and diagnostics. His targeted cancer drugs and analytical methods have led to numerous publications, and royalty generating patent and patent applications. He brings the same passion and innovation to the classroom.
College of Business and Public Administration Dr. Ji is internationally recognized for her excellence as an instructor and researcher. She is in the top 3.65 percent of authors downloaded on the Social Science Research network of over 200,000 authors, and has consulted with researchers globally from top business schools. Xiuqing (Susan) Ji Associate Professor Finance Ph.D., Arizona State University, 03 Ph.D., Florida State University, 98 M.S., Tianjin University, 97 B.A., Tianjin University, 95 College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Muhammad is a poet and author, and advocate for overcoming institutional barriers to the acceptance of language diversity in composition. She specializes in African-American literature and inspiring her students to greater creative achievement. Rashidah Muhammad Professor English Ph.D., Michigan State University, 95 M.A., Michigan State University, 91 B.A., Michigan State University, 89 College of Arts and Sciences This three-time faculty excellence award winner leads students into the creative world of dramatic feature and documentary filmmaking. As director, he involves students in the production of internationally recognized faculty-student film projects, such as Chicago Heights and Hogtown. Daniel Nearing Associate Professor/Coordinator MFA Independent Filmmaking Producer Resident, Canadian Film Centre, 97 M.F.A., York University, 90 M.A., University of Toronto, 89 B.A., University of Calgary, 84 College of Business and Public Administration Dr. Simon is adept at making complex, quantitative material accessible and understandable to students at all levels. He is a dedicated teacher, mentor, and coach of student teams in the APICS (Association of Operations Management) Great Lakes case competitions. John Simon Associate Professor Operations Management Ph.D., Northwestern University, 89 M.S., Northwestern University, 83 B.Tech., Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, India, 82 College of Health and Human Services Dr. Sood infuses cultural sensitivity into the curriculum through her International Collaborative Project on Cultural Awareness. She enhances her students learning by coordinating a virtual online classroom with OT students at Manipal College of Allied Health Sciences, India. Divya Sood Assistant Professor Occupational Therapy OTD, Washington University 07 BOT, College of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal, Karnataka, India, 03 11
ON-CAMPUS Opportunities GSU s bold and innovative campus revitalization reflects our high academic ambitions and commitment to enhancing your learning experience and contributing to your success On campus student housing available in 2014 Completely new biology, chemistry, computer science, and nursing labs and classrooms Student Commons student life center Technology enhanced classrooms Small class sizes, flexible course schedule, online course options Wi-Fi equipped campus Computer station and computer lab availability State-of-the-art television/video production studios and editing facilities Performance spaces and art studios Art Gallery Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park Center for Performing Arts 12
Your Goals Your Graduate Degree Within Reach at GSU www.govst.edu 13
35 35 graduate programs ways to enhance your qualifications, develop your skills, and prepare you for the challenges of tomorrow. College of Arts and Sciences Master s Degrees Analytical Chemistry Art Communications and Training Communication Studies Human Performance and Training Media Communications Computer Science Criminal Justice English Environmental Biology Independent Film and Digital Imaging Mathematics Political and Justice Studies College of Business and Public Administration Master s Degrees Accounting Business Administration (MBA) Supply Chain Management * Management Information Systems Public Administration 14 College of Education Master s Degrees Counseling Clinical Mental Health Counseling Marriage and Family School Counseling Early Childhood Education Education *** Bilingual/ESL Computer Education Curriculum and Instruction Mathematics Education Science Education Educational Administration ** *** Chief School Business Official Higher Education Administration Principal Leadership Multicategorical Special Education *** Psychology Clinical Theoretical Reading** *** Teaching - Urban Teacher Education Specialist Degree School Psychology Doctorate Degrees Counselor Education and Supervision Interdisciplinary Leadership (Ed.D) Higher Education Not-for-Profit Social Entrepreneurship Public Safety College of Health and Human Services Master s Degrees Addictions Studies Communication Disorders Health Administration Nursing Clinical Nurse Specialist Family Nurse Practitioner Nursing Administration Nursing Informatics Occupational Therapy Social Work Practice with Children and Families School Social Work Doctorate Degrees Nursing Practice Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Physical Therapy (Transitional) Degree programs are accredited by *Online program **Hybrid (online and in class) ***May be taught in cohort format
Accreditation Governors State University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Individual degree programs hold additional accreditation where such accreditation exists. Convenience Classes are taught on campus in classrooms and/or online, and may be offered in a cohort format, either on campus or at satellite locations. A cohort is a group of students who follow the degree curriculum, take classes, and earn the same degree together. Present Your Research Graduate students are encouraged to gain experience and network with others through research presentation opportunities at the annual GSU Student Research Conference held on campus and regional, national, and international conferences specific to their field of study. Application Process For information on applying to a specific degree program, visit www.govst.edu/degree or contact the Office of Admissions at 708.534.4490. Graduate degree program applications may require the submission of additional materials and/or have application deadlines. www.govst.edu/apply 15
FINANCIAL AID AND You Competitive and affordable graduate tuition rates 16
Your education is one of the most important investments you will ever make. At GSU, your graduate degree is within reach regardless of your family s financial situation. Financial aid advisors will help you discover how to finance your education with a combination of scholarships, tuition waivers, loans, and work study for those who qualify. 708.534.4480 www.govst.edu/finaid Complete your FAFSA form Graduate students are eligible only for unsubsidized federal direct student loans and work study. Eligibility is determined by the FAFSA form. FAFSA should be completed and submitted as soon as graduate school acceptance is received. Graduate Assistantships are available in each college, in many degree programs, in administrative offices, and student service departments. Earn a tuition waiver and/or a monthly stipend as you earn your graduate degree. Scholarship Opportunities may be available through the GSU Foundation. www.govst.edu/scholarships Learn, Earn, Experience Graduate assistantships provide real-world experiences and professional development in a wide range of disciplines. You may have the opportunity to work with faculty members on research projects, teach courses, facilitate lab experiences, or coordinate student activities. As a graduate assistant, you can earn as you learn, and gain the experience to prepare you for leadership roles in your graduate program and beyond. 17
Enhanced STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES Family Development Center With Early Head Start, full and half day pre-kindergarten, before and after school childcare, and childcare services, your children receive quality care while you earn your degree. www.govst.edu/children 18 Office of the Coordinator for Veterans and Military Personnel Guidance, assistance, and resource referral services are available to students who are veterans, active duty military, and military or veteran s family members. GSU waives the application fee for veterans and service members. www.govst.edu/veterans
Office of Career Services Discover career options and connect with internship and employment opportunities. The Office of Career Services sponsors job fairs and workshops, and offers individual advising to help chart your future. Career services available to alumni. www.govst.edu/careerservices Writing Center In person and online assistance is available to you through the Writing Center. You can access in-depth, individual guidance with any writing assignment and at any stage of the writing process, from deciphering the intricacies of an assignment to applying APA-style. www.govst.edu/writingcenter 19
Keep Fit Have Fun As a student you are a member of the Recreation and Fitness Center. Enjoy table tennis, billiards, free weights, cardiovascular equipment, swimming pool, gymnasium, fitness classes and much more. Train individually or with a group. Join a team, make friends, and have fun. STUDENT Life AT GSU VISIT US www.govst.edu Express Yourself Be in the audience, on the stage, in the wings, or behind the camera. Your role awaits you at the Center for Performing Arts, film production and screening facilities, art studios, performance spaces, art gallery, and art exhibits. 20 60 More than student organizations
Access Student Support Take advantage of tutoring, writing guidance and assistance, confidential counseling, career development, and job search assistance. Achieve with Graduate Student Programs Graduate Leadership Scholars pairs you with experienced leadership educators to develop your leadership potential (part of the Student Leadership Institute). Graduate Student Organization sponsors graduate student social and networking events; promotes career and professional development opportunities; supports research and academic pursuits; and recognizes graduate students achievements. Graduate Student Life Program Series workshops ensure a rich graduate experience at GSU. 21
PRAIRIE PLACE Residences In 2014, GSU will open its first on campus student residence. Undergraduate and graduate students will live in apartment or suite style units. Each room will be fully furnished and equipped with cable, Internet, and Wi-Fi access. This residence will have it all - with community rooms and lounges, a convenience store, study rooms, and laundry and kitchen facilities. Social, recreational, and informal educational activities enhance the living experience. Trained resident assistants will serve on each floor. 22
Apartment and suite-style residence options Two bedroom apartment, single occupant bedroom Two bedroom apartment, double occupant bedroom Four bedroom apartment, single occupant bedroom Semi-suite, double occupant bedroom www.govst.edu/housing 23
How to get here From north: 1-94 south to I-57. I-57 south to Sauk Trail (east). Sauk Trail east to Cicero Ave. Cicero south to University Parkway.University Parkway east to GSU entrance. From east or west: I-80 to I-57. I-57 south to Sauk Trail (east). Follow above directions from Sauk Trail. From South: I-57 north to Sauk Trail (east). Follow above directions from Sauk Trail. University Park, IL 60484 708.534.4490 www.govst.edu