Accepted Students

A matriculated student is a student who has applied and been accepted into a program. Students enrolled in courses, but not formally admitted, are considered non-matriculated students. After you have applied for admission to a graduate program, and are accepted, you will receive a letter of acceptance. With your letter, you will receive a Program of Study form and the name and telephone number of your advisor. You should meet with your advisor as soon as you are able. You and your advisor will fill out the Program of Study listing the courses required to complete your degree. At this time, any courses taken prior to admission will be evaluated for content and currency with your program. Twelve (12) credits may be transferred into a master’s degree program.

Residency Requirements

All candidates for the Master’s degree must complete a minimum of 33 semester credit hours, all of which must be earned exclusively in graduate-level courses. No more than twelve (12) credits may be earned at any location other than Worcester State College.

Time Limit to Complete Master's Degree

All requirements for a graduate degree must be completed within six (6) years from the effective term of admission to a program. Timing of subjects studied is critical for currency in the field.

Academic Standing Requirements

Matriculated students will be dismissed from their graduate program if they do not maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or if they receive two grades of C+ or lower. In addition, grades below a B- are not acceptable for graduate credit.

Program of Study Form

When you are accepted you will receive a Program of Study form which you and your advisor, or graduate coordinator will complete. A Program of Study allows each student to put together the courses that meet the student’s career goals and interests in a particular program. Completion of all the courses listed will enable you to graduate. If you need to change your Program of Study, you will need to fill out a change form available in the Graduate and Continuing Education Office. Changes need to be approved by your advisor.

Comprehensive Examination

Master of Science or Master of Education degree candidates must pass an oral or written comprehensive examination in his or her field of concentration. In place of a comprehensive examination, the student may elect to complete and defend a thesis in those programs for which such an option is designated.

Graduation Steps

Candidates eligible for graduation must signify their intention to graduate by completing and submitting an Intent to Graduate form and include a Commencement fee. The fee covers the cost of a diploma, invitations, and other expenses. Deadlines for filing are March 1 for a May graduation, June 15 for an August graduation, and October 15 for a December graduation. If a candidate plans to participate in graduation ceremonies in May, a regalia order form is available in the Graduate and Continuing Education office.

Advising, Appointments, and More Information

The Graduate and Continuing Education office is open Monday - Thursday until 7:00 p.m. to assist graduate students. If you have questions or need an appointment to discuss your educational choices, please call (508) 929-8127.