Administration Program

Graduate Program Coordinator: Elizabeth Smith, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Political Science

Master of Science in Administration
Dakota Hall, Room 109
414 East Clark Street
Vermillion, SD 57069
Phone: (605) 677-6405 or (888) 493-9256
www.usd.edu/msas

DEGREE

Master of Science in Administration

SPECIALIZATION

Alcohol and Drug Studies
Criminal Justice Studies
Health Services Administration
Human Resource Management
Interdisciplinary Studies
Long Term Care Administration
Organizational Leadership

Program Description

This cross-disciplinary program provides the primary tools and organizational skills necessary to effectively perform administrative roles in public service oriented organizations. Coursework focuses on the practical application of administrative theory, and the development of an intellectual framework for analyzing and successfully addressing the challenges faced by modern administrators. The program benefits mid-career professionals working in a variety of settings, including government agencies, nonprofit and social service organizations, health care, and education - as well as private sector organizations that provide public services. Graduates of the program are prepared to lead and manage organizations; analyze, think critically, solve problems, and make decisions; adequately consider the ethical and legal implications of their administrative decisions; and communicate effectively with organizational members and stakeholders.

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

A minimum of 3 years of professional experience (documented through a current resume)
Prior graduate education (if applicable)
Letters of recommendation (3)
Statement of purpose explaining the choice to pursue graduate education through the program
Additional requirements exist for international students and applicants with degrees from other countries.

Applicants for the program must have a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 2.7 on conferred degree and/or graduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better, based on a 4.0 scale, on all graduate coursework. The department expects applicants to have at least 3 years of substantive professional experience (documented through submission of a current resume and described in their statement of purpose). Generally, students will be fully admitted if they have a strong academic record; meet the minimum expectations for professional experience; demonstrate strong communication skills and a good match of their academic and professional goals with the mission of the program; receive favorable recommendations; and meet all other minimum conditions for acceptance into the Graduate School.

Students who do not meet all of the qualifications for full admission may, in some circumstances, be granted provisional admission to the program. These students may be admitted with specific provisions outlined for them to meet in order to be granted full admission. Failure to complete specified provisions will result in the student’s dismissal from the program.