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Professional Studies (M.A.)

Program Information

The Master of Arts in Professional Studies is a solid intellectual framework within which students create their own degree plans. The core curriculum provides a foundation in research, writing, and the liberal arts; and a culminating seminar emphasizing a major project provides the capstone for each student's individualized program of study.

This highly flexible program is ideal for the working professional, as each student designs a curriculum that best fits his or her present career needs and future aspirations. The program is particularly well suited for students who wish to integrate specialized study with a broader understanding of related fields. It also permits individuals primarily interested in personal growth to design a program that corresponds with their interests.

Although degree plans may be built around traditional academic disciplines, many students combine courses from such practical areas of study as:

1. Digital media and communication
2. Information technology and applied systems theory
3. Management and administration
4. Public policy and regional planning
5. Human resources
6. Health care
7. Education
8. Professional writing

Others may emphasize courses from the humanities, fine arts, and social sciences.

An individualized plan of study, (IPS) places special responsibilities on the student. In consultation with the program director, the entering student must design and submit for approval a formal plan of study. This plan of study must be approved by the program director no later than the semester in which the student completes 12 credits towards the degree.

The program is committed to offering working professionals flexible and convenient ways to earn an advanced degree through collaborative learning, Internet-based course work and independent study.

A grade point average of 3.00 (2.50 for conditional admission) is required. All GPA calculations for admission are based upon the last 60 credits of undergraduate and post-baccalaureate study. Additionally, the applicant must submit an essay that includes:

• the student's reasons for wishing to enter the program
• an explanation of the ways in which the Professional Studies program will enable the applicant to achieve personal and/or professional goals
• a preliminary overview of the student's proposed plan of study

Send this essay to the Graduate School Office, Towson University, 8000 York Road, Towson, MD 21252.