2024-2025 Academic Catalog

School of Graduate Studies
Jason Prather, Dean

Programs - Summary list 
Admissions Requirements
Retention Information
Time & Progress to Degree Completion
Earning a Second Masters Degree

Introduction to the School of Graduate Studies
Graduate education offers students the opportunity to build upon prior educational achievements to increase knowledge and related skills for career or personal goals. As such, graduate courses assume students possess the commitments and academic skills necessary to approach increased levels of content mastery and application. Correspondingly, faculty will create courses with grading, testing, research and related standards clearly exceeding those reflected in undergraduate education.Return to Table of Contents

Programs

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Admissions Requirements

Admission to University
Persons desiring admission to the School of Graduate Studies must first be admitted to the University.

1. Complete an ECU Application for Admission/Readmission;
2. Submit one (1) official transcript from each undergraduate and graduate institution attended, other than East Central University;

Admission to the School of Graduate Studies
The School of Graduate Studies processes applications for admission to Graduate Studies. Students may be granted unconditional, conditional, provisional, or concurrent admission status. A student seeking admission to a Graduate Degree Program must complete the following steps:

1. Submit all other credentials required for admission to a specific Graduate Degree Program;
2. Develop a program of study in consultation with an assigned advisor.

Standards for Admission
1.) Hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.

2.) Meet the academic admission requirements for the Graduate Degree Program sought:

1. Program GPA
   • All MEd programs  require a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 2.5.
     
   • All other programs require a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0. 
2. Resume/Curriculum Vita
   • Must include contact information for three (3) references that can speak to your academic preparedness for graduate level work.
3. Writing Sample

Admission to one graduate degree program/option does not imply admission to any other graduate degree program/option, nor does it imply admission to any undergraduate degree option. 

Unconditional Admission
Unconditional admission to the School of Graduate Studies indicates that the applicant has submitted all relevant documents and met all requirements for admission to the University, the School of Graduate Studies, and the specific Graduate Degree Program.

Conditional Admission
Conditional admission to the School of Graduate Studies may be granted to an applicant who has met all academic requirements for unconditional admission, but has not submitted all documentation required by the Graduate Degree Program. Students with conditional admission may register for courses for one semester. Students must submit all program documentation and be admitted to the graduate degree program to enroll in subsequent semesters. No more than one semester of credit may be applied to a Graduate Degree Program; time limits apply to these credits.

Provisional Admission
Provisional admission to the School of Graduate Studies may be granted to an applicant who does not meet all the requirements for unconditional admission to a Graduate Degree Program. Students must submit all required program documents and be approved by the Graduate Degree Program to be admitted. When a student admitted on a provisional basis successfully completes all program provisions, the student will be moved to unconditional admission status. Students failing to meet one or more program provisions will be suspended.

Concurrent Graduate Study (i.e., undergraduates enrolling in graduate courses)
A senior student who lacks less than a full normal study load and who has completed a minimum of 100 credit hours may be permitted to enroll in courses applicable to a graduate degree program, subject to the following study load provisions:

Fall and Spring Semesters:

1. A maximum of nine (9) undergraduate and six (6) graduate credit hours; or
2. A maximum of twelve (12) undergraduate and three (3) graduate credit hours.

Summer Semester:

1. A maximum of three (3) undergraduate and three (3) graduate credit hours; or
2. A maximum of six (6) graduate credit hours.

No more than six (6) hours in a semester may be applied to a Graduate Degree Program. Graduate credit hours earned may be applied toward either the baccalaureate or graduate degree, but not towards both. Enrollment in graduate courses does not imply admission to the School of Graduate Studies or a graduate degree program. No more than twelve (12) semester hours earned under this policy may be applied to a graduate degree program. Graduate enrollment will be changed to non-graduate if baccalaureate graduation requirements are not met. Students seeking financial aid should meet with their Financial Aid Counselor before enrolling in both graduate and undergraduate courses. The following rules will also apply:

1. After a student requests that a graduate course be moved from the undergraduate to the graduate transcript, the course may never be moved back to the undergraduate transcript. 
2. Courses will never be moved to from the undergraduate transcript to the graduate transcript after an undergraduate degree has been awarded. If a graduation application for an undergraduate degree was submitted prior to the request to move a graduate course to the graduate transcript, then special approval will be required from the University Registrar before the course is moved.  
3. A course may not count toward a graduate degree unless it is transcribed to the graduate transcript. 
4. Any an all enrollment in graduate level coursework by undergraduate students must be approved by the Dean of the Graduate School. 
5. Graduate level courses will never be moved to the undergraduate transcript under any circumstances. 

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Retention Information

Overall GPA
Graduate students must maintain an overall ECU graduate retention grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher to remain academically in good standing with the School of Graduate Studies. For more information concerning academic standing within the School of Graduate Studies, please see the full academic policy section of this catalog.

Course Grades
Graduate students can earn no more than two (2) C’s in their graduate degree program to remain academically in good standing with the School of Graduate Studies. Graduate students earning a grade of D or F in a course may not count that course toward their graduate degree program requirements. Some programs have more stringent grade requirements.

Seminar and Pass/Fail Credit Limits
Credit earned in seminars must be germane to the student’s Graduate Degree Program and approved by the program director in order to count toward a graduate degree. No more than three (3) hours of course work graded as pass/fail may count toward a graduate degree. Specific programs may have exceptions for practicums and internships.

Certification Courses
Graduate certificates may satisfy some requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor and others. For further information, contact the Dean or Graduate Program Coordinator of the College of Education and Psychology or the Graduate Program Coordinator of the Professional Programs in Human Services Department.

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Time & Progress to Degree Completion

Time Limit for Completion of Degree
Graduate credit applied towards a graduate degree must be completed within six (6) years prior to the completion of the degree, exclusive of any time spent in the Armed Forces of the United States of America. Work completed more than six (6) years prior to completion of the degree may not be counted toward the degree but may count toward professional certification.

Progress Toward Degree
Students who have not successfully completed coursework after one year must reapply to the University and the School of Graduate Studies. Students who have not successfully completed course work for two years must reapply to the graduate degree program.

Application for Degree
A student must apply for award of a degree according to the deadline specified by the university for the semester in which the degree will be awarded. (Failure to graduate necessitates reapplication.) Application for graduation may be found on Colleague Self-Service. For more information about the graduation application process, please see the relevant policy in the full academic policy section of this catalog.

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Earning a Second Master's Degree

First Degree From Another Institution
Students with a graduate degree from an accredited institution may complete a subsequent graduate degree at East Central University by completing all requirements for that degree. The subsequent graduate degree must include a minimum of twenty-one (21) graduate credit hours not applied toward any other graduate degree. All credit hours accepted from the first graduate degree must be reviewed and approved by the graduate program faculty and the Dean of Graduate Studies. Only courses with a minimum grade of B will be accepted from the first graduate degree. Students may petition for an exception to this policy in certain situations (such as completion of licensure requirements). All exceptions must be reviewed and approved by the graduate program faculty and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

First Degree From East Central University (ECU)
The second graduate degree must include a minimum of twenty-one (21) credit hours not applied toward the first graduate degree. In the following two scenarios, the programs have been designed so that credits earned while completing the first program can be applied toward the second, while allowing students to remain in compliance with the 21 credit hour rule. 

Scenario_1: School Psychometry (MEd) followed by Master of Science in Psychological Services (MSPS) or Education Specialist (EdS)
Scenario_2: Education Leadership (MEd)  followed by a Doctor of Education (EdD)

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Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Program Purpose & Objectives
The Master of Business Administration program is designed to provide working professionals with the knowledge and abilities necessary to further their careers in executive, managerial and administrative roles in business, health care, state and local government entities, tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations.

The MBA is new for Fall 2024 and the program is enrolling new students. As some courses to be completed during the final stages of the MBA are still under construction, a complete list of course requirements is not available at this time. The information is expected to become available soon. 

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Master in Management (MIM; 30 Credit Hours)

Program Purpose & Objectives
The Master in Management (MiM) degree targets students whose first degree is outside a business field or who have a degree in a business field, but would like to enhance their knowledge of business. The program is designed primarily for individuals in one of the following three groups:

1. Students who have just completed a non-business undergraduate degree whose first job prospects would be enhanced with the completion of a graduate degree in management.
2. Full-time employees with a non-business undergraduate degree who are entering or hope to soon enter a management position.
3. Full-time employees who have a business degree but find themselves underemployed or who have not been employed in a management position.

Required Courses (24 Credit Hours)
ACCT 5113 Accounting for Managers
BUSLW 5203 Advanced Employment & Labor Law
ECON 5103 Economics for Managers
FIN 5103 Finance for Managers
MGMT 5203 Foundation of Management
MGMT 5503 Leadership & Organizational Behavior
MGMT 5703 Strategic Management
MKTG 5103 Marketing Management

Elective Courses (6 Credit Hours)
Select two of the following courses:
MGMT 5043 Special Topics in Management
MGMT 5103 Introduction to Graduate Business Studies
MGMT 5603 Managing in Global Economy
MGMT 5953 Internship in Management

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Master of Science in Accounting (MSA; 30 Credit Hours)

Program Purpose & Objectives
The Master of Science in Accounting is designed to prepare students to move into authority positions in manufacturing companies, governmental units, not-for-profit entities, public accounting firms, and other professional or service organizations. The unique combination of human skills, knowledge, and technology embedded in the curriculum will prepare graduates for these opportunities. Specifically, students should leave the program knowing how to anticipate and meet the changing needs of their customers; utilize and leverage technology in ways that add value to these customers; interpret and provide a broader context to financial and non-financial information; link data, knowledge, and insight together to provide quality advice for strategic decision- making; and, give and exchange information within a meaningful context and with the appropriate delivery and interpersonal skills.

The Program curriculum has been specifically designed to provide an educational experience which will prepare students to successfully complete all portions of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, while earning an advanced degree. The Program will also qualify graduates to sit for the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) exams. The MSA Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Ethics & Professional Standards
The student admitted to the Master of Science in Accounting program needs to familiarize himself or herself with and act in accordance with the ethical standards required by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Code of Professional Conduct. Any behavior on the part of the student which may conflict with the standards in the above document will be reviewed by a committee from the Harland C. Stonecipher School of Business faculty consisting of the advisor, an accounting faculty member chosen by the chair, and a Harland C. Stonecipher School of Business faculty member chosen by the student. The committee will have the authority to take any of the following actions: exonerate the student, notify the student and plan appropriate ameliorative action, notify appropriate boards and law enforcement agencies, or dismiss the student from the program.

Background Courses (Undergraduate Prerequisites)
The purpose of background courses is to provide a strong base of knowledge for advanced business and accounting studies.  Background courses may be waived for students who have successfully completed and achieved a grade of “C” or higher on previous course work addressing a specified content area. Background courses cannot be used to fulfill the 30 hours of MSA graduate courses. Applicants who must satisfy background course requirements may be admitted as non-degree seeking students to take undergraduate courses. The background course requirement is composed of the following courses:

ACCT 3203 Cost Accounting I
ACCT 3303 Intermediate Accounting I
ACCT 3383 Federal Income Tax Accounting
ACCT 3403 Intermediate Accounting II
ACCT 4503 Auditing
BSEC 2603 Business & Economics Statistics
BUSLW 3213 The Legal Environment of Business
ECON 3113 Financial Management
MIS 3433 Management Information Systems

Graduate Curriculum for MSA
In addition to satisfying the background course requirements, all MSA students must complete 30 hours of graduate courses. Some latitude is allowed in selecting courses. However, students must satisfy all prerequisites of a graduate course before enrolling. The Internship in Accounting can be taken for 3 hours credit only after successful completion of at least 12 semester hours of graduate courses.

Required Courses (18 Credit Hours)
ACCT 5073 Advanced Auditing
ACCT 5103 Financial Statement Analysis
ACCT 5123 Tax Compliance & Planning
ACCT 5203 Advanced TAx
ACCT 5403 CPA Prep
BUSLW 5133 Contemporary Legal Issues

Accounting Elective Courses (3 Credit Hours)
Select one of the following courses:
ACCT 5023 Development of Accounting Theory
ACCT 5043 Special Topics in Accounting
ACCT 5303 Forensic Accounting & Fraud Examination
ACCT 5953 Internship in Accounting

Non-Accounting Elective Courses (9 Credit Hours)
BSEC 5203 Quantitative Methods for Accounting
BUS 5123 Organizational Leadership
BUSLW 5203 Advanced Employment & Labor
ECON 5143 Applied Economics
MKTG 5173 Marketing Analysis

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Doctorate of Education in Rural Education (EdD; 60 Credit Hours)
Students applying to the program are required to have earned a master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.00. Across the United States, at least 30,000 rural schools employ approximately 916,000 personnel. Oklahoma has 205,945 students in rural schools, comprising 264 school districts. The Ed.D. in Rural Education is specifically designed to address rural education’s unique circumstances and challenges. Specific coursework will help educational leaders navigate curriculum development, strategic planning, supervision, organizational change, and advocacy for rural schools. According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2020), 52% of the schools in Oklahoma are defined as rural.

In addition to general educational requirements in a doctoral program, this program focus on the needs that are unique to leaders in Oklahoma rural schools. Rural education leaders need to know how to address the unique issues in rural communities, such as “varying access to healthcare, food security, Internet connectivity, access to advanced coursework, and high-quality educational resources” (OSDE, 2020, para. 2). This program includes an applied dissertation. The distinctive opportunities provided by an applied dissertation included working on issues, challenges, or problems in a local rural community to research possible solutions that can be put into place immediately. The applied focus of this program allows the students to research that has an immediate impact on day-to-day operations and activities in the rural community.

Courses will be offered fully online in eight-week terms so working adults can integrate graduate study into their lives, with five opportunities to start each year. Professional instructional designers support faculty to prioritize student learning and ensure that courses meet high quality standards. Degree for the working adult/professional. 8 weeks online courses. Concepts learned in courses today can be implemented in rural communities tomorrow. 

Research, Measurement & Statistics (3 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5113 Techniques of Research
*Must be taken within the first eight (8) hours ofthe program
*Must earn and "A" or "B" in this course

Administration Track (21 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5173 Fundamentals of Curriculum; OR
EDUC 5363 Principles of Instructional Design
EDUC 5533 Fundamentals of Public School Administration
EDUC 5513 Supervision of Instruction
EDUC 5723 Advanced Legal Aspects of Education
EDUC 5773 Politics & Governance of American Education
EDUC 5523 School Plant Management
EDUC 5943 Educational Technology Leadership

Core Courses (27 Credit Hours)
EDUC 6003 Contemporary Issues and Advocacy in Rural Education
EDUC 6013 History and Foundations of Rural Education
EDUC 6023 Leading Special Programs in Rural Education
EDUC 6033 Organizational Changes/Strategic Planning in Rural Educaiton
EDUC 6043 Advanced Public School Finance in Rural Education
EDUC 6053 Applied Dissertation/Capstone Seminar Orientation
EDUC 6063 Quantitative/Qualitative Research
One additional elective course taken at the graduate level worth three (3) credit hours. 

Applied Dissertation (12 Credit Hours)
EDIS 7003 Applied Dissertation/Capstone 1 - Prospectus
EDUS 7013 Applied Dissertation/Capstone II - Research
EDUS 7023 Applied Dissertation/Capstone III - Dissertation
Note: EDUS 7023 will be completed twice for a total of six (6) credit hours. 

Other Program Notes
The administrative track portion of the program does not lead to certification like the MEd in Educational Leadership. Educators interested in leadership programs may also wish to consider ECU's Superintendent program. 

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Education Specialist (Eds; 63 Credit Hours)
The Ed.S program in School Psychology in ECU will allow students to receive extensive training which will be eligible for the qualification of a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). This 63-Hour program will allow students to be extremely marketable for employment in the schools as a school psychologist anywhere in the United States as well as allowing for potential pay increases based on national certification status. The focus of the program will be equipping professionals by training them in the areas of assessment, consultation, special education law and academic/behavioral intervention.

Psychological & Counseling Foundations (27 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5163 Cog Beh Theories & Methods of Coun & Psychology
EDPSY 5353 Standardized Group Tests
EDPSY 5433 Affective Theories of Counseling & Psychotherapy
H/P/E 5443 Advanced Group Counseling 
PSYCH 5063 Advanced Physiological Psychology
PSYCH 5143 Stat & Design in Applied Psychology
PSYCH 5173 Pro Orientation & Ethics in Clinical Psychology
PSYCH 5363 Adolescent Psychopathology & Treatment
PSYCH 5443 Multicultural Consultation & Intervention

School Psychology Specialization (24 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5143 Introduction to School Psychological Services
EDPSY 5153 Family School Collaboration & Consultation
EDPSY 5403 Non-Traditional Assessment
PSYCH 5313 Advanced Educational Psychology
PSYCH 5333 Behavioral Intervention w/Children
PSYCH 5403 Intellectual Assessment
PSYCH 5433 Diagnostic Assessment
PSYCH 5473 Advanced Psychology of Childhood & Adolescence

Field Experience (12 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5493 Practicum in School Psychology
EDPSY 5593 Internship in School Psychology I
EDPSY 5613 Internship in School Psychology II
EDPSY 5693 Practicum in School Psychometry

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Master of Education (MEd) 

Program Purpose & Objectives
The Master of Education degree at East Central University offers educators and other professionals in depth study in several specialization areas. Candidates can choose a new program that prepares them for a job in an education related field such as Educational Leadership, Instruction Design and Technology, Special Education, or Sports Administration. Candidates can choose a Post Masters Certification in School Superintendent. Each program offers courses based on best practices in the field and is designed to provide a research foundation from which candidates make informed decisions. Candidates graduate from these programs as professional, reflective, innovative leaders.

The Master of Education degree programs that lead to new certification areas are accredited by the State of Oklahoma and by the Specialty Program Associations affiliated with The Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP). Each specialty program is designed to teach specific program standards which are addressed throughout the program of study. In addition to the specific program standards, all advanced degrees leading to certification are aligned with the following CAEP standards:

1. ECU will ensure that candidates develop a deep understanding of the critical concepts and principles of their discipline and, by completion, are able to use discipline-specific practices flexible to advance the learning of all students toward attainment of college and career-readiness standards.
2. ECU will ensure that effective partnerships and high-quality clinical practice are central to preparation so that candidates develop the knowledge, skills, and professional dispositions necessary to demonstrate positive impact on all P-12 students’ learning and development.
3. ECU will demonstrate the quality of candidates is a continuing and purposeful part of its responsibility from recruitment, at admission, through the progression of courses and clinical experiences, and to decisions that completers are prepared to teach effectively and are recommended for certification.
4. ECU will demonstrate the impact of its completers on P-12 student learning and development, classroom instruction, and schools, and the satisfaction of its completers with the relevance and effectiveness of their preparation.
5. ECU maintains a quality assurance system comprised of valid data from multiple measures, including evidence of candidates’ and completers’ positive impact on P-12 student learning and development. The provider supports continuous improvement that is sustained and evidence based, and that evaluates the effectiveness of its completers. The provider uses the results of inquiry and data collection to establish priorities, enhance program elements and capacity, and test innovations to improve completers’ impact on P-12 student learning and development.

The Master of Education programs at ECU that are related to education but are not restricted to certified teachers are Educational Leadership, Instructional Design and Technology, School Psychometry, Sports Administration, and Special Education. The Educational Leader- ship program is aligned with the Educational Leadership Constituent Council (ELCC) Standards. The Instructional Design and Technology Program is aligned with the Association for Education Communications and Technology standards (AECT), the Secondary Education-Academic Discipline Program is aligned with specific content standards. The Special Education program is aligned with The Council of Exceptional Children (CEC) standards. The Sports Administration Program is aligned with the National Association for Sport and Physical Education standards (NASPE) and the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM) standards.

A common structure is shared generally within these degree options, all of which lead to the Master of Education degree. The curriculum for each program, however, is designed around specific standards.

Special Requirements of the Master of Education Degree
Hold one of the following:

1. A Standard Teaching Certificate
2. An Alternative Education acceptance letter (which must be on file)
3. Written affirmation that the candidate understands the master’s degree alone may not, and in many instances will not, lead to state certification until additional state certification requirements have been met. Only specific programs are eligible for this option.

Degree Options
Students pursuing the Master of Education degree must select one of the following degree options. Such selection shall be made at the time of admission to the graduate program since a change of option may result in the students having completed inapplicable work.

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Master of Education (MEd) - Educational Leadership Option (32 Credit Hours)
The graduate program option for Educational Leadership is de- signed for the graduate student specializing in administration for grades K-12. Special attention is given to the knowledge, skills and dispositions necessary to become an effective school principal.

Research, Measurement & Statistics (3 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5113 Techniques of Research
* Must be taken within the first eight (8) hours of the program.
*Must earn an "A" or "B" in this course. 

Specialization: School Principal (14 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5533 Fundamentals of Public School Administration
EDUC 5573 Public School Finance
EDUC 5583 Legal Aspects of Education
EDUC 5623 The Principalship
EDUC 5832 Practicum and Portfolio in Public School Administration

Curriculum & Instruction (6 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5173 Fundamentals of Curriculum; OR
EDUC 5853 Advanced Strategies for Effective Teaching
EDUC 5513 Supervision of Instruction

Special Phases of Administration (6 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5413 Introduction to Counseling
EDUC 5943 Education Technology Leadership

Supportive Area (3 Credit Hours)
Select one of the following courses:
EDUC 5013 Advanced Educational Technology Strategies
EDUC 5023 Educational Aspects of Exceptional Child
EDUC 5133 Modern Philosophies of Education
EDUC 5183 Contemporary Issues in Education
EDUC 5843 Advanced Classroom Management

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Master of Education (MEd) - Library Media Option (32 Credit Hours)
The Master’s of Library Media is designed for graduate students planning to become a School Library Media Specialist in grades PreK-12th in public or private educational settings. The intent of the program is to prepare competent, certified School Library Media Specialists in accordance with state and national professional standards and guidelines. All areas of school librarianship, including technology, are  emphasized. Special attention is given to the development of the student as a consumer of research along with a major emphasis on the knowledge, skills and attitudes that are necessary to become a School Library Media Specialist.

Program Prerequisite or Co-Requisite (3 Credit Hours)
EDLBS 4913 Children's Literature; OR
EDLBS 5913 Advanced Children's Literature

Research, Measurement & Statistics (3 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5113 Techniques of Research
*Must be taken within the first eight (8) hours of the program.
*Must earn an "A" or "B" in this course. 

Program Course (18 Credit Hours)
LIBSC 5113 School Library Administration I
LIBSC 5133 Materials Selection
LIBSC 5213 Cataloging & Classification
LIBSC 5233 Information Resources
LIBSC 5923 Young Adult Literature
LICSC 5973 Curriculum and the School Library

Specialization (6 Credit Hours)
EDLBS 5333 Administration & Use of Instructional Media
EDUC 5003 Multimedia Technology
EDUC 5363 Principles of Instructional Design
EDUC 5933 Survey of Emerging Technologies
LIBSC 5353 Literacy in the School Library

Portfolio (2 Credit Hours)
LIBSC 5952 Practicum & Capstone in Library Media

Electives (3 Credit Hours)
Select one of the following courses:
EDLBS 5913 Advanced Children's Literature
EDUC 5233 Survey of Teaching Reading
EDUC 5603 Survey of Intellectual Property

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Master of Education (MEd) - School Counseling Option (33 Credit hours)
The graduate program option for the school counselor is designed for the graduate student specializing in counseling at the elementary or secondary level and leads to the Master of Education Degree. Special attention is given to the development of the student as a consumer of research along with a major emphasis on the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that are necessary to become a school counselor.

Research, Measurement & Statistics (3 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5113 Techniques of Research
*Must be taken within the first eight (8) hours of the program).
*Must earn an "A" or "B" in this course. 

Professional Ethics & Orientation (3 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5413 Introduction to Counseling
*Must be taken the first semester.

Foundations of School Counseling (9 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5163 Cog Beh Theories & Methods of Coun & Psychotherapy
EDPSY 5353 Standardized Group Tests
PSYCH 5113 Theories of Personality & Human Behavior; OR
PSYCH 5473 Advanced  Psych of Childhood & Adolescence

Specialization (12 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5363 Career Development
EDPSY 5433 Aff Theories & Teach of Coun & Psychotherapy 
EDUC 5453 Developmental Guidance
H/P/E 5443 Advanced Group Counseling

Practicum & Intervention Strategies (6 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5483 Counseling Intervention Strategies
EDUC 5493 Practicum & Capstone in School Counseling
*Courses are to be taken concurrently at the end of program. 

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Master of Education (MEd) - School Psychometry Option (33 Credit Hours)
This degree focuses on the applied knowledge needed in the development and use of educational and testing skills for student assessment. The curriculum is designed to address the educational and psychological concerns associated with educational assessment of students with routine and special needs in the classroom.

Psychological Foundations (12 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5353 Standardized Group Tests
EDUC 5023 Educational Aspects of Exceptional Children
PSYCH 5063 Advanced Physiological Psychology
PSYCH 5173 Prof Orientation & Ethics in Clinical Psychology

School Psychometry Specialization (18 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5143 Introduction to School Psych Services
EDPSY 5403 Non-Traditional Assessment
PSYCH 5313 Advanced Educational Psychology
PSYCH 5403 Intellectual Assessment
PSYCH 5433 Diagnostic Assessment
PSYCH 5473 Advanced Psychology of Childhood & Adolescence

Field Experience (3 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5693 Practicum in School Psychometry

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Master of Education (MEd) - Special Education Option (33 Credit Hours)
The graduate program option for the special education teacher is designed for the graduate student specializing in teaching students with mild/moderate disabilities in PreK-12th grade. This option leads to a Master of Education Degree. Special attention is given to the development, learning assessment, and collaboration in working with students with mild/moderated disabilities. This is an online program.

Research, Measurement & Statistics (3 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5113 Techniques of Research 
*Must be taken within the first eight (8) hours of the program.
*Must earn an "A" or "B" in this course.

Required Courses (24 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5023 Educational Aspects of Exceptional Child
EDUC 5093 Identification of & Strategies for Student w/Behavioral Disorders
EDUC 5103 Students with Mild & Moderate Disorders
EDUC 5163 Advanced Methods for Mild & Moderate Disorders
EDUC 5233 Survey of Teaching Reading
EDUC 5333 Legal Aspects of Special Education
EDUC 5353 Advanced Assessment & Program Development
EDUC 5753 Differentiated Instruction in Special Education

Practicum (2 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5762 Practicum and Portfolio in Special Education

Required Courses (6 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5843 Advanced Classroom Management
EDUC 5853 Advanced Strategies of Effective Teaching

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Master of Education (MEd) - Sports Administration Option (30 Credit Hours)
The Master of Education in Sports Administration specialization is designed to prepare the professional educator for positions as Head Coach, Athletic Director, or other administrative positions responsible for directing athletic programs. The program is based on specialized courses in sports administration.

Research, Measurement & Statistics (3 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5113 Techniques of Research
*Must be taken within the first eight (8) hours of the program.
*Must earn an "A" or "B" in this course.

Required Courses (27 Credit Hours)
KIN 5303 Sports Administration
KIN 5313 Sport Facility Management
KIN 5323 Legal Aspects of Sport
KIN 5353 Ethics in Sports Administration
KIN 5413 Principles of Sport Finance
KIN 5423 Marketing & Event Management
KIN 5513 Leadership and Personnel Management
KIN 5533 Sports in American Society
KIN 5613 Practicum in Sports Administration
*Must be cleared to enroll in KIN 5613 by instructor. 

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Post Master Certification Program - Alt. Principal Cert. Option (20 Credit Hours)
Pursuant to HB 2747 of 2010 amending HB 2915 of the 2002 Oklahoma Legislative Sessions, amending 70 O.S. 2001, Section 6-122.3, East Central University affirms it has an Alternative Placement Certification candidate support program and is committed to implement the program in support of any Alternative Certification candidate approved by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE).

All candidates seeking ECU approval for a plan of study for alternative certification as a School Principal and must hold a master’s degree and complete the courses noted for the respective program(s). Candidates for certification for School Principal must have two years of relevant work experience in a supervisory or administrative capacity.  Candidates must have a passing score on the subject area competency examination, and a filing with the director of teacher education at an Oklahoma accredited institution of higher education a plan for completing an alternative administrative preparation program within (3) years. An alternative certificate for superintendent of schools and principals shall not exceed three (3) years and shall not be renewable.

Required Courses (20 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5173 Fundamentals of Curriculum
EDUC 5513 Supervision of Instruction
EDUC 5533 Fundamentals of Public School Administration
EDUC 5573 Public School Finance
EDUC 5583 Legal Aspects of Education
EDUC 5623 The Principalship
EDUC 5832 Practicum & Portfolio in Public School Administration

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Post Master Certification Program - School Superintendent Option (16 Credit Hours)
Applicant must hold and maintain a valid Standard Teaching Certificate in Early Childhood, Elementary, Elementary/Secondary, Secondary, Vocational-Technical, Library Medial Specialist, or Speech- Language Pathology. Applicant must hold a Master’s Degree and certification as a school principal or meet alternative certification requirements for school principal certification. Applicant must have had two (2) years of successful teaching experience in public or private schools accredited the Oklahoma State Board of Education and two (2) years administrative experience in public or private schools accredited by the State Board of Education. Applicant shall pass the Oklahoma Certification Test for School Superintendent prior to being issued a certificate.

Alternative certification candidates must hold a standard master’s degree, have two (2) years of relevant work experience in a supervisory or administrative capacity, receive a passing score on the subject area competency exam, and, submit a plan to the Director of Teacher Education at ECU for completing an alternative certification program within three (3) years. Candidates seeking certification through this route should contact the Director of Teacher Education for more information and specific program and course requirements. An alternative certificate for superintendent of schools shall not exceed three (3) years and shall not be renewable.

Required Courses (16 Credit Hours)
EDUC 5062 Superintendent Administration Practicum I
EDUC 5072 Superintendent Administration Practicum II
EDUC 5523 School Plan Management
EDUC 5723 Advanced Legal Aspects of Education
EDUC 5773 Politics & Governance of American Education
EDUC 5793 The Superintendency 

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Master of Science in Psychological Services (MSPS)

Program Purpose & Objectives
The Master of Science in Psychological Services degree is de- signed to develop professionals who can function as Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Behavioral Practitioners, School Psychologists, Sport Psychologists or psychological assistants in such settings as mental health centers, guidance centers, mental hospitals, alcohol and drug treatment centers, correctional institutions, individual athletes and teams, and as an independent practitioner as defined by the licensure or certification board(s) of his or her chosen program of study. The role of these professionals is to help people more fully to develop their potential for creative productivity and emotional satisfaction. The following general objectives are intended to prepare students to fill this role:

1. To provide opportunities for students to acquire knowledge of the general principles involved in providing psychological services;
2. To prepare students to understand research methodology and to use research reports and psychological literature;
3. To prepare students to provide the psychological services of counseling, consulting, and evaluating.

Students in this program are expected to have or to acquire in the early phases of training knowledge of general psychology, statistical methods, psychology of learning and its application to behavior modification, psychology of personality, abnormal psychology, and psychological evaluation. A course in theory and research in psychological services builds on this background to develop competencies in research and the use of psychological literature.  Courses in individual mental testing, and individual psychological evaluation, help students to acquire the skills to evaluate people. Courses in behavior change and clinical psychology help students to provide counseling services to people. A course in community consultation helps students to provide consultation in their work setting and community.

Small classes and ample opportunities for interaction with faculty and students provide an excellent opportunity for students to develop the skills necessary to function well in their occupations. Graduate teaching assistantships and graduate research assistantships provide financial assistance as well as unusual opportunities for learning.

Each student will be assigned a faculty graduate advisor upon entering the program and will be expected to work closely with the advisor. A student will need to work with his or her advisor in meeting basic professional goals. This MSPS degree qualifies an individual to work in applied areas of psychology under supervision. At the completion of the program, students will have met the academic requirements for certification as a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Behavioral Practitioner, Applied Sport Psychologist, or School Psychologist.

Practicum/Internship
The student will spend a minimum number of hours receiving direct supervision with a qualified mentor and direct client contact hours as required by his or her practicum(s) or internship(s). The student must complete an application form for practicum placement at least five weeks before the semester in which the practicum begins.

The student’s advisor and the Practicum/Internship Supervisors will determine the type and appropriateness of supervision for each placement. The student will spend a minimum number of hours receiving direct supervision with a qualified mentor and direct client contact hours as required by his or her practicum(s) or internship(s).

Ethics & Professional Standards
The student admitted to the Master of Science in Psychological Services program needs to familiarize himself or herself with and act in accordance with the ethical standards required by the following board and professional organizations:

1. American Psychological Association
2. American Counseling Association
3. National Board for Counselor Certification
4. Association of Psychological Sciences
5. Oklahoma State Board of Behavior Health

As well as the professional organization for his or her specific program of study:

1. National Association of School Psychologist or
2. Association for Applied Sport Psychology

Any behavior on the part of a student which may conflict with the standards in the above documents will be reviewed by a committee from the psychology faculty consisting of the advisor, a psychology faculty member appointed by the chair, and a faculty member chosen by the student. The committee will have the authority to take any of the following actions: exonerate the student, notify the student and plan appropriate ameliorative action, notify appropriate boards and law enforcement agencies, or dismiss the student from the program.

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Master of Science in Psychological Services (MSPS) - Counseling Psych. Option (60 Credit Hours)
Counseling Psychology focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to facilitate personal and interpersonal functioning within mental health practice and different community mental health settings. The curriculum is broad based to prepare students in working with many different populations. Students in this track will be eligible to seek state LPC and LBP licensure.

Psychology & Counseling Foundations (27 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5163 Cog Beh Theories & Methods of Coun & Psychotherapy 
EDPSY 5353 Standardized Group Tests
EDPSY 5433 Affective Theories of Counseling & Psychotherapy
H/P/E 5443 Advanced Group Counseling
PSYCH 5063 Advanced Physiological Psychology
PSY 5143 Stat and Design in Applied Psychology
PSYCH 5173 Prof Orientation and Ethics in Clinical Psychology
PSYCH 5363 Adolescent Psychopathology and Treatment
PSYCH 5443 Multicultural Consultation and Intervention

School Psychology Specialization (21 Credit Hours)
PSYCH 5113 Theories of Personality & Human Behavior
PSYCH 5153 Research in Applied Psychology
PSYCH 5183 Advanced Abnormal Psychology
PSYCH 5333 Behavioral Intervention w/Children
PSYCH 5373 Psychological Assessment
PSYCH 5403 Intellectual Assessment
PSYCH 5473 Advanced Psychology of Childhood & Adolescence 

Field Experience (6 Credit Hours)
The following course will be completed twice. 
PSYCH 5553 Practicum in Psychology
PSYCH 5553 Practicum in Psychology

Students who plan to apply for Oklahoma state LPC licensure are strongly advised to complete 6 elective program courses approved by the State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure (BBHL). Thesis hours are not accepted for LPC coursework.  Candidates who do not adhere to the LPC Planned Program of Study for the MSPS Counseling Psychology Program may be subject to individual course review and at the discretion of the board denied approval or required to complete additional coursework. Therefore, course substitutions for the Counseling Psychology option will only be approved after the candidate signs a contract stating he or she understands these possible consequences.

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Master of Science in Psychological Services (MSPS) - School Psych. Option (60 Credit Hours)
School Psychology focuses on the skills and knowledge needed for providing psychological services within public school settings. The curriculum is designed to prepare students to work with diverse childhood populations, including children from diverse demographic backgrounds as well as children with diverse learning, behavior, and emotional needs. Students who successfully complete this track will be eligible to seek state School Psychologist and School Psychometrist certification. 

Psychological & Counseling Foundations (27 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5163 Cog Beh Theories & Methods of Coun & Psychotherapy
EDPSY 5353 Standardized Group Tests
EDPSY 5433 Affective Theories of Counseling & Psychotherapy
H/P/E 5443 Advanced Group Counseling
PSYCH 5063 Advanced Physiological Psychology
PSYCH 5143 Stat & Design in Applied Psychology
PSYCH 5173 Prof Orientation & Ethics in Clinical Psychology
PSYCH 5363 Adolescent Psychopathology & Treatment
PSYCH 5443 Multicultural Consultation & Intervention 

School Psychology Specialization (21 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5143 Introduction to School Psychological Services
EDPSY 5403 Non-Traditional Assessment
PSYCH 5313 Advanced Educational Psychology
PSYCH 5333 Behavioral Intervention w/Children
PSYCH 5403 Intellectual Assessment
PSYCH 5433 Diagnostic Assessment
PSYCH 5473 Advanced Psychology of Childhood & Adolescence

Field Experiences (12 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5493 Practicum in School Psychology
EDPSY 5593 Internship in School Psychology I
EDPSY 5613 Internship in School Psychology II
EDPSY 5693 Practicum in School Psychometry

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Master of Science in Psychological Services (MSPS) - Sport Psychology Option (60 Credit Hours)
Sport Psychology- focuses on the applied knowledge needed in the development and use of psychological skills for the optimal performance and the well-being of athletes. The curriculum is designed to address the performance and psychological concerns associated with sports involvement affecting athletes, coaches, and families as well as the develop- mental and social aspects of sports participation

Psychological & Counseling Foundations (27 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5163 Cog Beh Theories & Methods of  Coun & Psychotherapy
EDPSY 5353 Standardized Group Tests
EDPSY 5433 Affective Theories of Counseling & Psychotherapy
H/P/E 5443 Advanced Group Counseling
PSYCH 5063 Advanced Physiological Psychology
PSYCH 5143 Stat & Design in Applied Psychology
PSYCH 5173 Prof Orientation & Ethics in Clinical Psychology
PSYCH 5363 Adolescent Psychopathology & Treatment
PSYCH 5443 Multicultural Consultation & Intervention

Sport Psychology Specialization (30 Credit Hours)
PSYCH 5023 Advanced Social Psychology
PSYCH 5043 Advanced Sport Psychology
PSYCH 5083 Sports Performance Enhancement Strategies
PSYCH 5153 Research in Applied Psychology
PSYCH 5183 Advanced Abnormal Psychology
PSYCH 5193 Health Psychology
PSYCH 5203 Applied Biomechanics
PSYCH 5213 Life Coaching & Career Counseling
PSYCH 5373 Psychological Assessment
PSYKN 5523 Sports in American Society

Field Experience (3 Credit Hours)
PSYCH 5563 Internship in Sport Psychology

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Graduate Certificate in Psychology Services - School Psychologist Option (60 Credit Hours)
Applicant must hold a Master’s Degree in one of the following areas: General Psychology, Special Education, Child Psychology, School Counseling, or a related counseling area. School Psychologist Certificate candidates will be eligible to complete the OSAT certification exams for School Psychologist (033) and Psychometrist (034). School Psychologist certificate students will only be eligible to seek a state LPC licensure if they hold a Master’s Degree in an area related to mental health and accepted by the stated LPC licensure board. Mini- mum total of sixty (60) semester credit hours, including course work in the following program of study are required.

Psychological & Counseling Foundations (27 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5163 Cog Beh Theories & Methods of Coun & Psychotherapy
EDPSY 5353 Standardized Group Tests
EDPSY 5433 Affective Theories of Counseling & Psychotherapy
H/P/E 5443 Advanced Group Counseling
PSYCH 5063 Advanced Physiological Psychology
PSYCH 5143 Stat & Design in Applied Psychology
PSYCH 5173 Prof Orientation & Ethics in Clinical Psychology
PSYCH 5363 Adolescent Psychopathology & Treatment
PSYCH 5443 Multicultural Consultation & Intervention 

School Psychology Specialization (21 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5143 Introduction to School Psychological Services
EDPSY 5403 Non-Traditional Assessment
PSYCH 5313 Advanced Educational Psychology
PSYCH 5333 Behavioral Intervention w/Children
PSYCH 5403 Intellectual Assessment
PSYCH 5433 Diagnostic Assessment
PSYCH 5473 Advanced Psychology of Childhood & Adolescence

Field Experience (12 Credit Hours)
PSYCH 5553 Practicum in School Psychology
PSYCH 5553 Internship in School Psychology I
PSYCH 5553 Internship in School Psychology II
PSYCH 5553 Practicum in School Psychometry

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Graduate Certificate in Psychological Services - School Psychometrist Option (30 Credit Hours)

Psychological & Counseling Foundations (9 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5353 Standardized Group Tests
PSYCH 5063 Advanced Psychological Psychology
PSYCH 5173 Prof Orientation and Ethics in Clinical Psychology

School Psychology Specialization (18 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5143 Introduction to School Psychological Services
EDPSY 5403 Non-Traditional Assessment
PSYCH 5313 Advanced Educational Psychology
PSYCH 5403 Intellectual Assessment
PSYCH 5433 Diagnostic Assessment
PSYCH 5473 Advanced Psychology of Childhood & Adolescence 

Field Experience (3 Credit Hours)
EDPSY 5693 Practicum in School Psychometry 

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Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration (MA; 30 Credit Hours)

Program Purpose & Objectives
A Master of Art in Criminal Justice Administration degree supports the need for an understanding of the administration and management of criminal justice agencies and organizations. A degree in criminal justice administration trains students to be leaders and administrators in the field of criminal administrative roles in many areas of criminal justice including the following: city police departments, sheriff’s offices, state departments of correction, federal law enforcement agencies, and private sector agencies. Specifically, this degree will prepare students for roles as police chiefs, assistant or deputy chiefs, sheriffs, undersheriffs, wardens, deputy wardens, and chief agents of law enforcement entities.

1. Use a multidisciplinary approach to increase students’ understanding of leadership in criminal justice agencies and organizations.
2. Produce ethical criminal justice leaders who are responsible and informed decision makers.
3. Cultivate critical thinking skills that are applicable in criminal justice agencies and organizations.
4. Teach students to utilize evidence-based practices in criminal justice, leadership, and administration.

Required Courses (18 Credit Hours)
COUNS 5103 Human Services Research
CRJS 5013 Administration in the Criminal Justice System
CRJS 5113 Political & Legal Aspects of the Criminal Justice System
CRJS 5323 Foundations of the Criminal Justice Profession
CRJS 5433 Advanced Crime Theory
HURES 5433 Organizational Decision Making & Leadership

Elective Courses (12 Credit Hours)
Select four of the following courses:
COUNS 5183 Addiction Theory
COUNS 5283 Psychopharmacology & Substance Abuse
CRJS 5213 Litigation in the Criminal Justice System
CRJS 5333 Crime Reduction Strategies
HURES 5123 Grant Proposal Writing
HURES 5303 Program Evaluation
WRPM 5113 Advanced Native American Law

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Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS)

Program Purpose & Objectives
The Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is designed to provide the student with the theory, knowledge, and skills necessary for employment in a variety of public and private settings. 

The program objectives are as follows:

1. To contribute to the career development of persons currently employed in both the public and private sector.
2. To prepare pre-service professionals to enter the fields of mental health counseling.
3. To provide practicum and internship experiences common to the students’ career choice.
4. To develop the interpersonal, consultation, and coordination skills required for program development, management, and evaluation.
5. To provide specific specialized experiences related to the students’ present or desired career objective.

Admission to the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Degree
The MSHR Program seeks mature, emotionally stable individuals with a strong sense of personal responsibility and integrity. With this in mind, applicants are assessed by the program’s Graduate Admission Committee through an evaluation and weighing of all admission materials (e.g., admissions statement, interview, work experiences, recommendation forms, test scores) during both the fall and spring semesters. In addition to academic performance, measured primarily by grade point average, the Admissions Committee considers other factors that contribute to the development of a professional. Formal work experience in the human services, particularly in settings that serve public social services clients, is important. Other factors considered include: volunteer experience in the human services, life experiences and opportunities for personal growth, leadership, communication and interpersonal relationship skills, problem solving ability, the ability to work with and respect persons from diverse backgrounds, health and stamina, and motivation for graduate work and a career in administration, counseling or criminal justice.

Practicum/Internship
The student must complete an application form for practicum/ internship placement at least five weeks before the semester in which the practicum begins. The Practicum/Internship Coordinator will determine the type and appropriateness of supervision for each placement.

Ethics & Professional Standards
The student admitted to the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program needs to familiarize himself or herself with and act in accordance with the ethical standards required by the following boards, committees, or professional organizations.

1. American Counseling Association
2. Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health
3. National Board for Certified Counselors

Any behavior on the part of a student which may conflict with the above professional standards will be reviewed by a committee from the MSHR Student Review Committee. The student may be present at the committee meeting. The committee will have the authority to take any of the following actions, or any other appropriate actions: exonerate the student, notify the student and plan appropriate ameliorative action, notify appropriate boards and law enforcement agencies, drop the student from the program.

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Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health - Clinical Rehabilitation (60 Credit Hours)
This option prepares counseling professionals for employment in a variety of public and private settings. This training program affords students opportunities to gain the knowledge necessary to become highly-skilled professional counselors meeting the demands clinical mental health counseling. Students completing the program will satisfy the educational and clinical training requirements to be eligible for licensure (Licensed Professional Counselor— LPC). An applicant for admission to the program must show evidence of professional potential. This option is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

Research, Measurement & Statistics (3 Credit Hours)
COUNS 5103 Human Services Research
*Must be taken within the first eighteen (18) hours of the program.

Required Courses (51 Credit Hours)
COUNS 5163 App and Assess of Individuals, Groups and Families
COUNS 5213 Diagnosis of Psychiatric and Co-occurring Disorders
COUNS 5243 Foundations of Clinical Mental Health
*5243 must be taken within the first eighteen (18) hours of the program.
COUNS 5253 Legal & Ethical Aspects of Counseling
COUNS 5323 Clinical Assessment
COUNS 5363 Theories of Marriage and Family Counseling
COUNS 5493 Counseling Skills
COUNS R5553 Practicum in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
COUNS 5603 Human Growth & Development
COUNS 5613 Counseling Theories
*5613 must be taken within the first eighteen (18) hours of the program.
COUNS 5623 Counseling Interventions
COUNS 5633 Career Counseling & Theories
COUNS 5673 Counseling the Culturally Diverse
COUNS 5713 Group Counseling Theory & Practice
COUNS 5943 Int in Clinical Rehab & Clin Mental Health Counseling
COUNS 5943 Int in Clinical Rehab & Clin Mental Health Counseling
COUNS 5943 Int in Clinical Rehab & Clin Mental Health Counseling

Elective Courses (6 Credit Hours) 
Select two of the following courses:
COUNS 5043 Clinical Supervision and Administration
COUNS 5133 Human Sexuality
COUNS 5183 Addictions Theory
COUNS 5203 Child & Adolescent Counseling
COUNS 5283 Psychopharmacology & Substance Abuse
COUNS 5533 Crisis & Trauma Counseling
COUNS 5763 Integrated Behavioral Health
COUNS 5773 Counseling Technology & Telehealth

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Master of Science in Water Resource Policy & Management (MSWPM; 30 Credit Hours)

Program Purpose & Objectives
The Master of Science in Water Resource Policy and Management supports the need for advanced understanding of the growing complexity of water issues that face communities in the state, nation, and globally. This degree trains students for leadership in making water policy decisions and prepares students who seek employment within federal and state environmental agencies, environmental non- governmental organizations, international development agencies, industry, and environmental consulting firms.

The program requires students to integrate and synthesize knowledge from multiple disciplines to address the complex challenges of water resource decisions and to develop solutions that are socially acceptable, politically and economically viable, and environmentally sustainable. Students will be broadly trained to undertake careers in managing water resources and in guiding or making water resource policy decisions.

Required Courses (21 Credit Hours)
WRPM 5103 Policy Research & Methodology
WRPM 5203 Natural Resource History & Policy
WRPM 5303 Water Resource Policy Analysis
WRPM 5503 Environmental Conflict Management
WRPM 5513 Advanced Watershed Management
WRPM 5603 Water Resource Economics
WRPM 5703 International Environmental Policy

Elective Courses (9 Credit Hours)
Select three of the following courses:
WRPM 5113 Advanced Native American Law
WRPM 5193 Advanced Tribal Politics
WRPM 5213 Advanced Public Policy Making
WRPM 5223 Water in Developing Countries
WRPM 5313 Native American Water Rights
WRPM 5403 Water Law
WRPM 5413 Public Organization Theory
WRPM 5613 Hydrogeology 
WRPM 5693 Thesis
WRPM 5713 Advanced Water Quality & Treatment
WRPM 5813 Studies in Environmental Toxicology
WRPM 5913 Climate Change & Water

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Master of Science in Biological Sciences

Program Purpose & Objectives
The Master of Science in Biological Science program is designed to strengthen the scientific portfolio and provide specialized preparation for those individuals seeking careers in the health industry, water science, ecology or the natural sciences. The curriculum will strengthen student understanding of biology and increase competitiveness in their career of choice. 

Master of Science in Biological Sciences - Health Sciences Option (MS; 30 Credit Hours)

Required Courses (6 Credit Hours)
BIOL 5013 Experimental Design/Data Analysis
BIOL 5223 Grant/Science Writing & Communication

Required Track Courses (9-12 Credit Hours)
Students must select either the Thesis Track or the Non-Thesis Track.
Thesis Track (12 Credit Hours)
BIOL 5691-3 Thesis
BIOL 5713 Teaching in the Sciences
BIOL 5773 Graduate Examinations - Oral

OR

Non-Thesis Track (9 Credit Hours)
BIOL 5803 Report
BIOL 5813 Field Work in the Sciences
BIOL 5873 Graduate Examinations - Written 

Elective Courses (12-15 Credit Hours)
Students will select from between four to five of the following courses.
BIOL 5133 Special Topics in Evolution
BIOL 5245 Advanced Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
BIOL 5254 Special Topics in Entomology
BIOL 5313 Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology
BIOL 5405 Advanced Techniques in Biotechnology
BIOL 5424 Advanced Ethnobotany
BIOL 5433 Human Genetics
BIOL 5545 Advanced Molecular Biology
BIOL 5554 Genomics & Bioinformatics
BIOL 5563 Pathogenic Microbiology
BIOL 5623 Medical Biochemistry
BIOL 5654 Histopathology
BIOL 5683 Advanced Immunology
BIOL 5703 Advanced Biostatistics 
BIOL 5981-4 Seminar in Biology
GIS 5613 Digital Mapping
GIS 5913 Spatial Analysis

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Master of Science in Biological Sciences - Water Sciences Option (MS; 30 Credit Hours)

Required Courses (6 Credit Hours)
BIOL 5013 Experimental Design/Data Analysis
BIOL 5223 Grant/Science Writing & Communication

Required Track Courses (9-12 Credit Hours)
Students must select either the Thesis Track or the Non-Thesis Track.
Thesis Track (12 Credit Hours)
BIOL 5691-3 Thesis
BIOL 5713 Teaching in the Sciences
BIOL 5773 Graduate Examinations - Oral

OR

Non-Thesis Track (9 Credit Hours)
BIOL 5803 Report
BIOL 5813 Field Work in the Sciences
BIOL 5873 Graduate Examinations - Written 

Elective Courses (12-15 Credit Hours)
Students will select from between four to five of the following courses.
BIOL 5133 Special Topics in Evolution
BIOL 5144 Freshwater Invertebrate Zoology
BIOL 5254 Special Topics in Entomology 
BIOL 5313 Advanced Cell & Molecular Biology
BIOL 5324 Advanced Topics in Herpetology
BIOL 5414 Advanced Topics in Ecology
BIOL 5424 Advanced Ethnobotany
BIOL 5525 Advanced Plant Ecophysiology
BIOL 5535 Advanced Plant Ecology
BIOL 5935 Advanced Limnology
EHS 5223 Watershed Management
EHS 5553 Water Quality & Treatment
EHS 5703 Advanced Biostatistics
EHS 5802 Environmental Health Lab
EHS 5803 Environmental Toxicology
GIS 5613 Digital Mapping
GIS 5753 Spacial Programming
GIS 5913 Spacial Analysis
GIS 5953 GIS Workflows

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