FAQs

Admissions

Q: When is the deadline for admissions? 
A: The Graduate Program admits students twice yearly. Priority consideration will be given to completed application packets submitted by March 15th and October 15 every year. (Additional applicants will be considered as space in the program permits.)

Q: I missed the admissions deadline, but I would still like to attend school. What should I do?
A: You can still submit your application and take classes as a Graduate At Large (GSAL) while your application is being considered. Students can transfer nine (9) credit hours from other institutions and twelve (12) credit hours for classes attended at Chicago State University.

Q: Where can I find or apply for financial aid/student loans? 
This information is located in the Financial Aid office located in the Cook Administration Bldg 207. The phone number is (773) 995-2304.

Q: How many graduate credit hours can I transfer into this program?
A: Students can transfer in no more than 9 credit hours from other institutions. 

Q: I have a full time job, how can I get a degree/certificate?
A: Our courses are scheduled with the working adult in mind. Most of our campus classes are conducted once a week in the evening and they usually begin around 6 pm. Each class is three hours in length.

Q: Do you have an online based program?
A: While we do offer a few of our courses online, you can not obtain a degree solely online.
 
Q: I already have a degree, is it possible to take just a few classes?
A: Yes, you can take courses as a Graduate Student At Large (GSAL). Graduate Students At Large are non-degree seeking students that need a few classes to fulfill a job requirement. GSAL students must meet with our program advisor.

Q: How long will it take me to complete a masters degree in this program?
A: Students are required to complete the program in six years from being accepted. However, students, on average, complete the program in as little as two and a half or three years.

Registration

Q: How do I choose which class to take for the semester?
A: Every student must see an advisor every semester to receive advising for their classes and also to receive a PIN number to register. PIN numbers change every semester. To make an appointment with your advisor call the English Office at (773)995-2189.

Q: I’m registered for an online class but how can I access my online class?
A: A: Before you begin, you must obtain a CSU email account to login. Go to www.csu.edu and find the Cougar Connect located at the top of the home page. Then you click and login to Brightspace.

Q: Where can I obtain a CSU email account?
A: A: Once you are enrolled as a CSU student you can call the Help Desk to acquire your username and password. 

Q: Where can I obtain my CSU identification card?
A: Gwendolyn Brooks Library -1st floor.

Q: Where can I get more information on other CSU graduate programs?
Go to Graduate Admission website.

Q: Where can I find my textbook for class? 
A: You can look up your books on efollet bookstore online.

Q: Where can I find out how much parking is? 
A: Parking is $5 paid in cash upon entering the campus. Students also have the option to buy a parking pass.