Graduate & Continuing Studies Curriculum Catalog and Handbook 2005-2006

Admission

Graduate & Continuing Studies programs are designed for women and men age 23 or older who are unable to attend classes in the traditional college setting.  Admission presupposes the readiness to undertake the task of working independently, the ability to maintain a positive and critical approach to studies and creative work, and the capacity to collaborate with advisors and instructors, and to make use of constructive feedback and advice.

Applicants who do not meet the age requirement but are unable to attend classes in the traditional college setting may petition the Executive Director of Graduate & Continuing Studies in writing for special admission.  The applicant may be required to provide additional references.  The Executive Director of Graduate & Continuing Studies will review the applicants' case and make the decision whether to grant special admission on an individual basis.  Students granted special admission will be closely monitored during their first year of study.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Please submit the following to the Stephens College Graduate & Continuing Studies in order for your application to be reviewed:

• Completed and signed Continuing Studies application for admission.
• Non-refundable application fee of $50.
• Personal Statement of 300-500 words
• Official high school transcript or GED score report (Degree-seeking students only)
• Official transcripts from all previously and currently attended accredited institutions.  Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution to Stephens College and bear the institution's official seal and Office of the Registrar's signature.
• If applicable, official documentation for credit evaluation from other sources, such as professional programs and testing programs.
• Official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score if English is not your first language.  Minimum score requirements are 213 (computer-based) or 550 (paper-based).

Application materials should be sent to Stephens College, Graduate & Continuing Studies, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO 65215.

ADMISSION PROCEDURE

•  The Admission Committee reviews completed application files and extends an offer of admission to those who meet the admission requirements.
• The Office of the Registrar and the appropriate Department Chair examine transfer credit. The Associate Director will provide advising information and a degree plan worksheet to the student.

MATRICULATION REQUIREMENT

All students must participate in an online orientation session to fully matriculate into the Continuing Education Program.

 CLASSIFICATION OF TRANSFER STUDENTS

 Students are classified according to the amount of course credit earned.  Freshman:  0 to 26.9 semester hours; Sophomore:  27.0 to 53.9 semester hours; Junior:  54.0 to 86.9 semester hours; Senior:  87.0 or more semester hours.  Refer to "Options for Earning Credit" for details of converting transfer credit.

PERIOD OF DEFERRAL

 Students may have extenuating circumstances that prevent them from beginning the semester for which they applied.  A student may defer an offer of admission for one calendar year, after which they will need to reapply for admission.