Division of Education

Programs Offered

Master of Science in Education - Athletic-Activity Director Concentration
Master of Science in Education - Curriculum and Instruction Concentration
Master of Science in Education - Educational Administration Concentration
Master of Science in Education - Instructional Technology Concentration
Master of Science in Education - Literacy Concentration
Master of Science in Education - Teacher Leadership Concentration
Specialist in Education - Educational Administration
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Calendar

Campus Classes Begin
- Fall: August 19
- Spring: January 22
- Summer: June 1
Deadlines for Enrollment for Independent Study, Reading, and Symposium Credit
- Fall: September 10
- Spring: February 10
- Summer: June 1
Deadlines for Completion for Independent Study, Reading, and Symposium Credit
- Fall: December 5
- Spring: May 5
- Summer: July 15
Deadlines for Intent to Graduate
- Fall: October 10
- Spring: March 10
- Summer: July 10
Graduation Dates
- Spring: May 16

Program Purposes

The Graduate Programs in Education seek to provide learning experiences that are grounded in the mission and vision of the university and college. In doing so, the programs assist teachers and prospective administrators to be caring, effective practitioners in today’s schools. Learning experiences are designed to assist teachers and prospective administrators to improve their capability to teach and lead in today’s schools at every level.

Program Policies

All applicants accepted for graduate study must have graduated, or be scheduled to graduate during the current academic year, from a regionally accredited college or university with a baccalaureate degree comparable in content and credit hours with degrees granted by Southwest Baptist University.

Admission to Unclassified Status

Unclassified graduate students are persons taking graduate courses, but not pursuing a graduate education degree at Southwest Baptist University, and persons who are taking courses prior to admission to a graduate education degree program at SBU. Admission of unclassified graduate students is granted by the Office of Graduate Admissions on the basis of the general admission requirements. No unclassified status students will be permitted to take courses in the doctoral program.

Admission of a Senior Student

An undergraduate student, enrolled on the SBU campus in Bolivar, interested in taking courses for graduate credit during the last year of undergraduate work may register for graduate courses with the approval of the Office of Graduate Admissions. To be considered, a transcript of completed work indicating a cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.00 scale, a schedule of classes for the semester the work is to be completed, an application for admission to the Graduate Program and letters of recommendation from two undergraduate faculty members must be submitted to the Office of Graduate Admissions in Education. This information must be processed at least three weeks before the beginning of the semester.

Students may complete up to 12 graduate hours prior to the completion of the baccalaureate degree. The graduate courses taken will be held in escrow until the degree is completed. These hours may not be transferred to another university until the baccalaureate degree is completed. Combined total enrollment shall not exceed 16 hours. Undergraduate tuition rate will be assessed for all undergraduate students taking graduate hours.

Admission to Classified Status for Degree-Seeking Students

Graduate students in classified status are those who have been admitted to the Master of Science in Education degree program, the Master of Science in Educational Administration degree program, the Educational Specialist degree program, or the Doctorate of Education degree program.

Independent Study, Readings Credit and Symposium Credit

A graduate student is limited to 3 credits of independent study, 3 credits of readings credit, and 3 credits of symposium credit. Each of these must be supervised by an authorized graduate faculty member. Application forms may be requested through the Office of Graduate Studies in Education. Students will be notified in writing when the work is approved. No regularly offered courses may be taken for independent study.

Independent studies, readings, and symposium credits will not be granted in the Educational Administration degree programs.

Maximum Load

A graduate student may enroll in a maximum of 12 credits per semester. A full-time graduate student is one enrolled in 6 or more semester hours of graduate credit during the fall and spring semesters and 6 semester hours during the summer session. The average enrollment for graduate students is 6 credits per semester.

Course Repetition

Graduate courses taken at Southwest Baptist University for which the grade is F must be repeated at Southwest Baptist University. Exception to the number of times a course can be repeated may be granted only by the Provost.

Graduate courses taken for which the grade is C may be repeated only once. If the course is repeated at another college or university, prior approval must be received from the division head of Education at SBU.

Courses taken for which the grade is A or B cannot be repeated.

Course Cancellation Policy

Southwest Baptist University reserves the right to cancel any course having an enrollment which falls below the minimum enrollment established by the Graduate Council.

International Students

International students must meet the admission requirements stated in the previous sections. Official records of all higher education, including certificates of degrees with the dates the degrees were conferred, must be submitted. As part of the admissions process, an international credential evaluation is required which reports prior university study. SBU accepts evaluations from World Education Services (WES), found at www.wes.org or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) found at www.ece.org. An official international credential evaluation should come directly to Southwest Baptist University electronically or through the mail in a sealed envelope. Transfer credit will be applied according to information reported on the official evaluation. International students who transfer work to SBU from foreign institutions are responsible for any evaluation fees associated with the transfer of credits. A letter of acceptance will be issued only when an applicant is found eligible for admission.

International applicants are required to submit proof of adequate finances for the entire period of study. Admission will not be granted until such proof is submitted. Eligible applicants whose native language is not English must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and attain a score of at least 550.

Transfer Credit

Upon approval, a student may transfer a maximum of 12 semester hours of graduate credit from regionally accredited colleges and/or universities. No transfer credit will be accepted for courses in the Ed.D. Program - track 1.

Transfer courses must have been completed within the last 7 years. Courses must be applicable to a student’s SBU graduate program and become a part of the program of study when transferred. Official transcripts indicating the courses to be transferred must be on file in the Office of Graduate Admissions prior to admission.

The Division head of Education must approve transfer credits. Graduate courses transferred to Southwest Baptist University must have grades of A, B, S, P, or CR and must be similar to graduate courses offered by Southwest Baptist University. Official transcripts must be submitted to the Office of Graduate Admissions.

A student currently admitted as a classified graduate student at Southwest Baptist University who desires to complete graduate course work at another regionally or nationally accredited institution and transfer it to SBU must have prior approval of the advisor and the Division head of Education. The Transfer Course Approval Form must be completed and approved by the above persons prior to taking the course work.

Course work in Educational Administration completed outside the state of Missouri cannot be transferred to Southwest Baptist University and will not be applied to the Master of Science in Educational Administration degree. No OLIS courses will be accepted for transfer credit. Southwest Baptist University reserves the right to accept or reject any transfer credit.

Any student receiving an “F” for the course will be required to retake the course through Southwest Baptist University. Transfer credit from another institution will not be accepted in the event a student must retake a course due to receiving a grade of “F”.

Auditing a Course

A person who wishes to audit a course must have permission from the instructor and enroll as an auditor at the same time and under the same procedures as for credit. This status will permit the student to attend class but does not allow the student to take tests or have assignments graded by the instructor. Regular class attendance is expected. Auditors should consult with the instructor regarding restrictions and expectations. Change from credit status to audit status must be approved by the instructor and the Division head of Education. Persons who are not currently enrolled in the University must apply for admission in order to register as an auditor. Tuition for auditing a class is one-half the rate charged for regular enrollment. A student cannot change from a credit to audit (or admit to audit) after the third class meeting (or equivalent percentage for compressed format or online courses).

Permission to Walk Early for Commencement

Graduate students who agree to complete their final graduation requirements during the Summer term that follows the graduation ceremony may request to walk early. The request requires approval from the student’s advisor and graduate division head. Diplomas will be dated with the commencement ceremony date that follows completion of all degree requirements, and diplomas are usually mailed 6-8 weeks afterwards. The maximum number of hours remaining for the Summer term is as follows: education and educational administration degrees - 6 hours. Before submitting this request, the student must submit an “Intent to Graduate” form to the Registrar’s Office. Doctor of Education students are not permitted to walk early.

Programs of Study and Academic Regulations

Curriculum and Instruction Concentration

The Master of Science in Education - Curriculum and Instruction Concentration degree is designed for classroom teachers who desire to improve student learning and achievement through innovative, relevant, and researched-based approaches in education. Upon completion, teachers will gain deeper understanding of best practices in the key areas of curriculum, instruction, learning, technology, assessment and pedagogy. The degree will help to prepare teachers in meeting the needs of today’s schools by providing leadership for key educational concerns. A Christian perspective is woven throughout the program, with an emphasis on helping teachers to further develop as caring, effective practitioners in today’s schools.

Assessment

In the Graduate Programs in Education, periodic measurements of student perceptions and intellectual growth are obtained as one means for the University to assess and improve its academic programs and student learning. The information obtained is used to measure and develop student competencies and to determine and improve the quality of the educational experience for students. Alumni of the program will be surveyed every 2-5 years, asking them to evaluate the major degree program components and appropriateness to their work in education.

Admission Procedures

A. Criteria for full or unconditional admission to the Master of Science degree program:

A Missouri Teaching Certificate, or a passing score on the Graduate Record Exam; and
An undergraduate Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and
A positive recommendation for admission from the Graduate Education Admissions Committee.

B. Admission Procedures for the Master of Science degree program:

Submit the following materials to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
Official transcript(s) showing any previous graduate study.
A Graduate Studies application.
A copy of the applicant’s Missouri Teaching Certificate (Can be waived by the Coordinator of Graduate Education)
An application fee (waived for SBU alumni).
An admission questionnaire.

Committee Action

After all admissions materials are filed, the Graduate Admissions Committee will meet and determine the admissibility of the candidate. One of the following actions will be taken:

The candidate may be unconditionally admitted to the graduate program at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may not be admitted to the graduate program and may not pursue a graduate degree at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may be conditionally admitted and may proceed to pursue the appropriate master’s degree if stated conditions are continuously met. The Graduate Admissions Committee may grant conditional admission to persons who do not fully meet all admissions criteria, but in the view of the committee demonstrate potential for completing the program and making a worthy contribution through teaching or building level administration.
The Office of Graduate Admissions will notify the applicant in writing of the decision of the Graduate Admissions Committee. If the applicant is admitted conditionally, the conditions for continuing in the program will be listed and communicated in writing. An advisor will be announced in the letter. Students should communicate with their assigned advisor as soon as possible.

C. Conditional admission to the Master of Science Degree Program

Conditional Admission may be granted upon the recommendation of the Graduate Education Admissions Committee for a person who does not fully meet the criteria given above. When a person is granted conditional admission, the conditions for continuing in the program are communicated in writing by the Office of Graduate Studies.

Degree Requirements

To receive the Master of Science degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Complete all coursework with no more than 6 semester hours of C;
Receive a C or higher in all coursework;
Complete all requirements within 5 years of the date admitted to the graduate program. Requests for extensions must be made in writing and submitted to the Division Head of Education.

Persons wishing to pursue the Master of Science in Education degree at Southwest Baptist University should complete the process of admission to the graduate program as a classified degree-seeking student prior to the completion of 9 credit hours at SBU. The degree-seeking student must complete, file, and obtain approval of an official plan of study within 2 weeks following admission to the program. Plan of Study forms are available from the Office of Graduate Studies in Education. At least 15 hours must be completed after official admission to the degree program. The student should develop a plan of study in consultation with his/her advisor. As the student progresses through the program, any necessary changes in the plan of study must have the approval of the same advisor and the Division head of Education. Advisors will note changes in the permanent file of the student in the Office of Graduate Studies.

Teacher Leadership Concentration

The Master of Science in Education - Teacher Leadership Concentration is designed to assist teacher leaders in the area of curriculum and instruction; develop leadership capacity for teachers within the school building; produce a cadre of teachers who understand and implement the processes of teaching and problem-based learning, action research, and 21st century learning models; and cultivate teachers who have the ability to work with colleagues in a professional learning context.

Assessment

Admission Procedures

A. Criteria for full or unconditional admission to the Master of Science degree program:

A Missouri Teaching Certificate, or a passing score on the Graduate Record Exam; and
An undergraduate Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and
A positive recommendation for admission from the Graduate Education Admissions Committee.

B. Admission Procedures for the Master of Science degree program:

Submit the following materials to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
Official transcript(s) showing any previous graduate study.
A Graduate Studies application.
A copy of the applicant’s Missouri Teaching Certificate (Can be waived by the Coordinator of Graduate Education)
An application fee (waived for SBU alumni).
An admission questionnaire.

Committee Action

After all admissions materials are filed, the Graduate Admissions Committee will meet and determine the admissibility of the candidate. One of the following actions will be taken:

The candidate may be unconditionally admitted to the graduate program at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may not be admitted to the graduate program and may not pursue a graduate degree at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may be conditionally admitted and may proceed to pursue the appropriate master’s degree if stated conditions are continuously met. The Graduate Admissions Committee may grant conditional admission to persons who do not fully meet all admissions criteria, but in the view of the committee demonstrate potential for completing the program and making a worthy contribution through teaching or building level administration.
The Office of Graduate Admissions will notify the applicant in writing of the decision of the Graduate Admissions Committee. If the applicant is admitted conditionally, the conditions for continuing in the program will be listed and communicated in writing. An advisor will be announced in the letter. Students should communicate with their assigned advisor as soon as possible.

C. Conditional admission to the Master of Science Degree Program

Degree Requirements

To receive the Master of Science degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Complete all coursework with no more than 6 semester hours of C;
Receive a C or higher in all coursework;
Complete all requirements within 5 years of the date admitted to the graduate program. Requests for extensions must be made in writing and submitted to the Division Head of Education.

Instructional Technology Leadership Concentration

The Master of Science in Education-Instructional Technology Leadership Concentration is designed for individuals who want to lead the way in improving teaching and learning in education and training settings through the application of educational technology theory and practice. By completing this program, students will be prepared with the knowledge and abilities necessary to effectively solve learning problems in a variety of settings with an emphasis in instructional technology. The ITL program is specifically designed for students who wish to participate in improving the quality of education at school, work, and community through the informed use of educational technologies.

The Master of Science in Education/Instructional Technology degree will include the following courses:

Assessment

Admission Procedures

A. Criteria for full or unconditional admission to the Master of Science degree program:

A Missouri Teaching Certificate, or a passing score on the Graduate Record Exam; and
An undergraduate Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and
A positive recommendation for admission from the Graduate Education Admissions Committee.

B. Admission Procedures for the Master of Science degree program:

Submit the following materials to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
Official transcript(s) showing any previous graduate study.
A Graduate Studies application.
A copy of the applicant’s Missouri Teaching Certificate (Can be waived by the Coordinator of Graduate Education)
An application fee (waived for SBU alumni).
An admission questionnaire.

Committee Action

After all admissions materials are filed, the Graduate Admissions Committee will meet and determine the admissibility of the candidate. One of the following actions will be taken:

The candidate may be unconditionally admitted to the graduate program at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may not be admitted to the graduate program and may not pursue a graduate degree at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may be conditionally admitted and may proceed to pursue the appropriate master’s degree if stated conditions are continuously met. The Graduate Admissions Committee may grant conditional admission to persons who do not fully meet all admissions criteria, but in the view of the committee demonstrate potential for completing the program and making a worthy contribution through teaching or building level administration.
The Office of Graduate Admissions will notify the applicant in writing of the decision of the Graduate Admissions Committee. If the applicant is admitted conditionally, the conditions for continuing in the program will be listed and communicated in writing. An advisor will be announced in the letter. Students should communicate with their assigned advisor as soon as possible.

C. Conditional admission to the Master of Science Degree Program

Degree Requirements

To receive the Master of Science degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Complete all coursework with no more than 6 semester hours of C;
Receive a C or higher in all coursework;
Complete all requirements within 5 years of the date admitted to the graduate program. Requests for extensions must be made in writing and submitted to the Division Head of Education.

Literacy Concentration

The Master of Science in Education - Literacy Concentration degree is designed for classroom teachers who desire to meet the literacy needs of all their students through dynamic, effective, and research-based approaches in education. Upon completion, teachers will become knowledgeable of best practices for teaching reading and other literacy skills to all students. They will also gain a deeper understanding of effective assessments and evaluations necessary to ascertain students’ strengths and weaknesses in literacy-related skills and concepts. The degree will assist teachers in meeting the needs of today’s schools by preparing them to be leaders in best practices for literacy growth and development in their classrooms and in their schools. A Christian perspective is woven throughout the program, with an emphasis on helping teachers to further develop as caring, effective, practitioners in today’s schools.

Assessment

Admission Procedures

A. Criteria for full or unconditional admission to the Master of Science degree program:

A Missouri Teaching Certificate, or a passing score on the Graduate Record Exam; and
An undergraduate Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and
A positive recommendation for admission from the Graduate Education Admissions Committee.

B. Admission Procedures for the Master of Science degree program:

Submit the following materials to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
Official transcript(s) showing any previous graduate study.
A Graduate Studies application.
A copy of the applicant’s Missouri Teaching Certificate (Can be waived by the Coordinator of Graduate Education)
An application fee (waived for SBU alumni).
An admission questionnaire.

Committee Action

After all admissions materials are filed, the Graduate Admissions Committee will meet and determine the admissibility of the candidate. One of the following actions will be taken:

The candidate may be unconditionally admitted to the graduate program at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may not be admitted to the graduate program and may not pursue a graduate degree at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may be conditionally admitted and may proceed to pursue the appropriate master’s degree if stated conditions are continuously met. The Graduate Admissions Committee may grant conditional admission to persons who do not fully meet all admissions criteria, but in the view of the committee demonstrate potential for completing the program and making a worthy contribution through teaching or building level administration.
The Office of Graduate Admissions will notify the applicant in writing of the decision of the Graduate Admissions Committee. If the applicant is admitted conditionally, the conditions for continuing in the program will be listed and communicated in writing. An advisor will be announced in the letter. Students should communicate with their assigned advisor as soon as possible.

C. Conditional admission to the Master of Science Degree Program

Degree Requirements

To receive the Master of Science degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Complete all coursework with no more than 6 semester hours of C;
Receive a C or higher in all coursework;
Complete all requirements within 5 years of the date admitted to the graduate program. Requests for extensions must be made in writing and submitted to the Division Head of Education.

Athletic-Activity Director Concentration

The Master of Science in Education -Athletics-Activity Director is designed for individuals who seek to lead the athletic and activity program in their school.

Assessment

Admission Procedures

A. Criteria for full or unconditional admission to the Master of Science degree program:

A Missouri Teaching Certificate, or a passing score on the Graduate Record Exam; and
An undergraduate Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and
A positive recommendation for admission from the Graduate Education Admissions Committee.

B. Admission Procedures for the Master of Science degree program:

Submit the following materials to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
Official transcript(s) showing any previous graduate study.
A Graduate Studies application.
A copy of the applicant’s Missouri Teaching Certificate (Can be waived by the Coordinator of Graduate Education)
An application fee (waived for SBU alumni).
An admission questionnaire.

Committee Action

After all admissions materials are filed, the Graduate Admissions Committee will meet and determine the admissibility of the candidate. One of the following actions will be taken:

The candidate may be unconditionally admitted to the graduate program at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may not be admitted to the graduate program and may not pursue a graduate degree at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may be conditionally admitted and may proceed to pursue the appropriate master’s degree if stated conditions are continuously met. The Graduate Admissions Committee may grant conditional admission to persons who do not fully meet all admissions criteria, but in the view of the committee demonstrate potential for completing the program and making a worthy contribution through teaching or building level administration.
The Office of Graduate Admissions will notify the applicant in writing of the decision of the Graduate Admissions Committee. If the applicant is admitted conditionally, the conditions for continuing in the program will be listed and communicated in writing. An advisor will be announced in the letter. Students should communicate with their assigned advisor as soon as possible.

C. Conditional admission to the Master of Science Degree Program

Degree Requirements

To receive the Master of Science degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Complete all coursework with no more than 6 semester hours of C;
Receive a C or higher in all coursework;
Complete all requirements within 5 years of the date admitted to the graduate program. Requests for extensions must be made in writing and submitted to the Division Head of Education.

Special Reading K-12 Certification

In addition to the required courses for the completion of the Masters of Science in Education/Literacy, students’ transcripts will need to be evaluated for the completion of requirements determined by DESE.

Assessment

Admission Procedures

A. Criteria for full or unconditional admission to the Master of Science degree program:

A Missouri Teaching Certificate, or a passing score on the Graduate Record Exam; and
An undergraduate Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and
A positive recommendation for admission from the Graduate Education Admissions Committee.

B. Admission Procedures for the Master of Science degree program:

Submit the following materials to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
Official transcript(s) showing any previous graduate study.
A Graduate Studies application.
A copy of the applicant’s Missouri Teaching Certificate (Can be waived by the Coordinator of Graduate Education)
An application fee (waived for SBU alumni).
An admission questionnaire.

Committee Action

After all admissions materials are filed, the Graduate Admissions Committee will meet and determine the admissibility of the candidate. One of the following actions will be taken:

The candidate may be unconditionally admitted to the graduate program at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may not be admitted to the graduate program and may not pursue a graduate degree at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may be conditionally admitted and may proceed to pursue the appropriate master’s degree if stated conditions are continuously met. The Graduate Admissions Committee may grant conditional admission to persons who do not fully meet all admissions criteria, but in the view of the committee demonstrate potential for completing the program and making a worthy contribution through teaching or building level administration.
The Office of Graduate Admissions will notify the applicant in writing of the decision of the Graduate Admissions Committee. If the applicant is admitted conditionally, the conditions for continuing in the program will be listed and communicated in writing. An advisor will be announced in the letter. Students should communicate with their assigned advisor as soon as possible.

C. Conditional admission to the Master of Science Degree Program

Degree Requirements

To receive the Master of Science degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Complete all coursework with no more than 6 semester hours of C;
Receive a C or higher in all coursework;
Complete all requirements within 5 years of the date admitted to the graduate program. Requests for extensions must be made in writing and submitted to the Division Head of Education.

Master of Science in Educational Administration

Southwest Baptist University offers a Master of Science in Educational Administration degree specifically designed to prepare students for leadership roles at the building level. Recommendation for initial certification as elementary and secondary school principal will be granted with successful degree completion, with the opportunity to complete the coursework for middle level endorsement. The program has been developed in accordance with certification requirements established by the State Board of Education of the State of Missouri. (Certification programs are administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education).

Assessment

Alumni of the program will be surveyed every 2-5 years, asking them to evaluate the major degree program components and appropriateness to their work in education. When possible, the immediate supervisor of educational administration graduates will be surveyed to determine the adequacy of the graduate program in preparing people for the principalship. All students will be required to complete the mandated state test(s) prior to receiving initial certification as a building level administrator.

Admission Procedures

A. Criteria for full or unconditional admission to the Master of Science degree program:

A Missouri Teaching Certificate, or a passing score on the Graduate Record Exam; and
An undergraduate Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and
A positive recommendation for admission from the Graduate Education Admissions Committee.

B. Admission Procedures for the Master of Science degree program:

Submit the following materials to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
Official transcript(s) showing any previous graduate study.
A Graduate Studies application.
A copy of the applicant’s Missouri Teaching Certificate (Can be waived by the Coordinator of Graduate Education)
An application fee (waived for SBU alumni).
An admission questionnaire.

Committee Action

After all admissions materials are filed, the Graduate Admissions Committee will meet and determine the admissibility of the candidate. One of the following actions will be taken:

The candidate may be unconditionally admitted to the graduate program at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may not be admitted to the graduate program and may not pursue a graduate degree at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may be conditionally admitted and may proceed to pursue the appropriate master’s degree if stated conditions are continuously met. The Graduate Admissions Committee may grant conditional admission to persons who do not fully meet all admissions criteria, but in the view of the committee demonstrate potential for completing the program and making a worthy contribution through teaching or building level administration.
The Office of Graduate Admissions will notify the applicant in writing of the decision of the Graduate Admissions Committee. If the applicant is admitted conditionally, the conditions for continuing in the program will be listed and communicated in writing. An advisor will be announced in the letter. Students should communicate with their assigned advisor as soon as possible.

C. Conditional admission to the Master of Science Degree Program

Degree Requirements

To receive the Master of Science degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Complete all coursework with no more than 6 semester hours of C;
Receive a C or higher in all coursework;
Complete all requirements within 5 years of the date admitted to the graduate program. Requests for extensions must be made in writing and submitted to the Division Head of Education.

The Master of Science in Educational Administration degree leads to a recommendation for certification as an elementary, secondary or K-12 school principal following successful completion of the state required test(s).

Specialist in Education - Educational Administration

Southwest Baptist University offers an Specialist in Education - Educational Administration specifically designed to prepare students for leadership roles at the district level. With successful completion of degree requirements, recommendation for advanced certification in district level administration will be provided for the student. The program has been developed in accordance with certification requirements established by the State Board of Education of the State of Missouri. (Certification programs are administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education). The program is 35 credit hours with students required to maintain continuous enrollment until the completion of the field study.

Assessment

Alumni of the program will be surveyed within 2-5 years, following graduation to evaluate the major degree program components and appropriateness to their work in education. In the Education Specialist degree program, all students will be required to complete state required test(s) prior to receiving initial certification as a building level administrator and advanced certification as a building or district level administrator.

Admission Procedures

A. Criteria for full or unconditional admission to the Educational Specialist degree program:

A Missouri Teaching Certificate, or a passing score on the Graduate Record Exam; and
An undergraduate Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and
A positive recommendation for admission from the Graduate Education Admissions Committee.

B. Admission Procedures for the Educational Specialist degree program:

Submit the following materials to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
Official transcript(s) showing any previous graduate study.
A Graduate Studies application.
A copy of the applicant’s Missouri Teaching Certificate (Can be waived by the Coordinator of Graduate Education)
An application fee (waived for SBU alumni).
An admission questionnaire.

Committee Action

After all admissions materials are filed, the Graduate Admissions Committee will meet and determine the admissibility of the candidate. One of the following actions will be taken:

The candidate may be unconditionally admitted to the graduate program at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may not be admitted to the graduate program and may not pursue a graduate degree at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may be conditionally admitted and may proceed to pursue the appropriate master’s degree if stated conditions are continuously met. The Graduate Admissions Committee may grant conditional admission to persons who do not fully meet all admissions criteria, but in the view of the committee demonstrate potential for completing the program and making a worthy contribution through teaching or building level administration.
The Office of Graduate Admissions will notify the applicant in writing of the decision of the Graduate Admissions Committee. If the applicant is admitted conditionally, the conditions for continuing in the program will be listed and communicated in writing. An advisor will be announced in the letter. Students should communicate with their assigned advisor as soon as possible.

C. Conditional admission to the Educational Specialist Degree Program

Degree Requirements

To receive the Master of Science degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Complete all coursework with no more than 6 semester hours of C;
Receive a C or higher in all coursework;
Complete all requirements within 5 years of the date admitted to the graduate program. Requests for extensions must be made in writing and submitted to the Division Head of Education.

Persons wishing to pursue the Educational Specialist degree at Southwest Baptist University should complete the admission process to the graduate program as a classified degree-seeking student before completing 9 credit hours at SBU. The degree-seeking student must complete, file, and obtain approval of an official plan of study within 2 weeks following admission to the program. Plan of Study forms are available from the Office of Graduate Studies in Education. After official admission to the degree program, at least 15 hours must be completed. The student should develop a plan of study in consultation with his/her advisor. As the student progresses through the program, any necessary changes in the plan of study must have the approval of the same advisor and the Division head of Education. Advisors will note changes in the permanent file of the student in the Office of Graduate Studies.

The Educational Specialist degree leads to a recommendation for initial certification as an elementary or secondary principal for students entering the program with the M.S. in Education degree. Students completing the Ed.S. who currently hold certification as a building-level administrator will be recommended for the advanced principal certification and the initial superintendent certification following successful completion of the required state examination.

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

The unique coursework of the SBU Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of current leadership theory and practical application relevant to the work place. Student’s thinking will be stretched to look at the field of leadership with a new lens for problem solving and decision-making. The SBU Ed.D. Model includes four hours of concentration in the focus area of Business Nonprofit and Entrepreneurship. The coursework consists of 24 hours of course work and a minimum of 6 hours of directed research. The student’s initiative and topic choice/methodology will determine the actual time needed to complete the directed research.

Assessment

In the Doctorate of Education degree program, each student will be required to complete a written comprehensive examination. The purpose of the written comprehensive examination is for students to demonstrate the acquisition and application of knowledge gained through the regular course work of the program. The written comprehensive examination will cover three areas: 1) leadership (policy development, change, advocacy, ethics, and supervision), 2) organizational management (legal issues, operation practices, and communication), and 3) learning processes (data analysis and learning theories). Each student will also be required to complete a Directed Research Project in which they are asked to present a proposal and a final defense of the work before a committee of SBU faculty members and/or other approved terminally degreed individuals who compose the Directed Research Committee.

Admission Procedures

Admission Criteria for the Doctor of Education Degree Program

For admission into the Doctor of Education degree program, potential candidates should be currently involved in an educational leadership role, or have had previous experience in educational leadership roles. The educational experience may encompass a number of settings, including school administration, colleges and universities, and community and/or faith-based organizations. The Ed.D. Admissions Committee will consider the following factors in the admission of an applicant to the program, and strength in one area may be weighed favorably against shortcomings in another:

Evidence of a completed master’s degree in educational administration from an accredited university with a grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale for courses applied toward the master’s degree;
Evidence of a completed educational specialist from an accredited university with a grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale for courses applied toward the educational specialist degree;
Commitment and demonstration of the advancement of education through professional leadership as indicated by two of the following: a. Currently holding an administrative position; b. Currently holding a leadership position in a related field, c. Essay of applicant’s professional accomplishments, career goals and personal philosophy of leadership, no more than two pages in length.
Write and Cite APA course with a pretest and post-test module, receiving a minimum score of 80%. During the program this score will be tied to an assignment grade in EAD 8033.
Three recommendation forms completed by those knowledgeable of applicant’s professional, academic, and ethical qualities (Leveling students: Ensure one recommendation is from a current SBU professor).
Submission of an essay describing professional accomplishments, career goals, and personal philosophy of leadership (no more than two pages in length).
Submission of a professional vitae/resume.
Submission of administration certifications if pursuing certification. Submission of teaching certification for all (Application fee: $100)
The EdD Admissions Committee composed of members of the graduate studies program in education may request an interview with the applicant.

Admission Procedures for the Doctor of Education Program

Ed.D. candidates will submit all required documents by December 1st to be a priority applicant.
Southwest Baptist University Education Division Graduate Faculty will comprise the committee to review all application materials.
Candidates will be objectively selected based on ratings of performance on their admission standards and writing sample.
Candidates will be notified if they were accepted into the program during the Spring semester.
Students not accepted into the program may appeal to the Coordinator of Ed.D. requesting a review by the Division head and the Dean of the College of Professional Programs. The applicant will be notified of their decision within three (3) weeks of the receipt of the appeal.

Doctor of Education Leveling Admission Option for Students with a Master’s Degree in Education Administration

Candidates holding the MS in Educational Administration with initial certification as a building level administrator may choose to apply for the Ed.D. Leveling Program. This opportunity allows students to complete required Specialist courses a year prior to actual participation in the Ed.D. courses.

To be considered for acceptance into the Ed.D. program through the Track Two Leveling option, students must do the following:

Students interested in the Ed.D. leveling program shall submit an Ed.D. application and will start Specialist courses for the fall semester. Students will be admitted into Educational Specialist program.
Students will submit additional Ed.D. application materials by the deadline of December 1st (those in Ed.Sp. program will be applying for Ed.D. along with those with Ed.Sp.)
Additional application materials for the leveling student: 1) a recommendation form from a current instructor (one of the three required recommendation forms) and 2) record of taking the GRE.
By January 31st all Ed.D. applications will be reviewed for consideration. Students seeking Level Two classification along with those candidates who have completed Educational Specialist Degree shall be considered concurrently for the upcoming Ed.D. cohort. Top students (potential levelers and specialist students who have completed all admission requirements) will be selected to participate in the Ed.D. program for the upcoming semester by the Admissions Committee based on qualifications defined in the Admissions Handbook. Students will be notified of acceptance during the Spring semester (March-April).
Track Two leveling students will be updated in the spring semester to the Track Two Degree Seeking Program and will be admitted into the upcoming fall Ed.D. cohort only have after a degree audit confirms the successful completion of all leveling coursework.

Degree Requirements

To receive the Doctor of Education degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Receive a B or higher in all course work;
Pass comprehensive exams;
Attend all required class sessions, with no more than 2 absences during the program;
Complete a minimum of 6 credit hours of directed research;
Complete a successful defense of the directed research;
Complete all requirements within time limits noted below.

Time Limitations for the Doctor of Education Program

The coursework is designed to be completed in a cohort model, but if courses have to be made up this work may be accommodated with an upcoming cohort with approval from the Ed.D. Coordinator. The student shall register for 3 hours of Directed Research in each semester beginning in the fifth semester even if the Directed Research Committee (DRC) has not approved his/her proposal. The student shall continue to register for 3 hours of Directed Research until approval of the completed research by the DRC or the candidate has completed 36 directed research hours. After completion of 36 research hours without completion of the directed research the candidate will be dropped from the Doctoral Program.

The candidate may petition for reinstatement to the program one time, with submission of the required fee and a letter stating the reasons why the candidate should be allowed to continue. A committee consisting of the Dean of the College of Professional Programs, The Division Head of the Education Division and the Coordinator of the Doctoral Program shall meet and decide on the re-instatement of the candidate. The candidate shall be notified within 30 days of receiving the request of the committee’s decision. If re-instated the candidate shall have an additional 9 directed research hours (one year) to complete his/her directed research. If the candidate completes the additional 9 directed research hours without completion of the directed research project the candidate will be dropped from the Doctoral Program and be declared ABD.

Master’s Degree Teacher Certification

Southwest Baptist University offers a program by which qualified graduate students may become certified to teach in elementary, middle or secondary schools while earning the Master of Science in Education degree. The program is designed so that the participant may meet requirements for a Missouri teaching certificate and concurrently complete the requirements for the Master of Science in Education degree. The graduate level courses are open only to students with a bachelor’s degree except by special permission from the Chair of Graduate Studies in Education. The intent of the program is to attract outstanding persons from other areas of study for entry into teaching. The program is designed for persons whose undergraduate study was related to the fields in which they plan to teach and who have an outstanding undergraduate record.

Since the program involves study leading to both the Master of Science Degree and the Missouri teaching certificate, the degree is not granted until certificate requirements are met, and the certificate is not processed until the Master of Science Degree requirements are met. The program enables the graduate student to earn a master’s degree and meet teacher certification requirements in a setting that encompasses a Christian perspective. Participants in the program are charged the graduate rate of tuition for all required undergraduate leveling or certification course work. However, only persons fully admitted to the program or in their first semester of study while seeking admission to the program will be approved to take undergraduate leveling courses at the graduate tuition rate. The program is available only to persons who have been formally admitted to the teacher education program.

Criteria for admission into the Master’s Degree Teacher Certification program are the same as for admission to Graduate Studies in Education. Additionally, the student is expected to complete a student file in the Office of Teacher Education before admission to the master’s program will be granted, and to have completed EDU 2113, EDU 2313, and Field Experience 1. Enrollment in 3000-. 4000- and 5000- level education courses by all students seeking State Teacher Certification is limited to those students who have a cumulative GPA of 2.75, a GPA of 3.0 in content area coursework, a GPA of 3.0 in professional education coursework, passed all state required assessments and been approved by faculty in the Division of Education and, when applicable, faculty in the respective content area division.

After an initial interview with the Certification Officer in Teacher Education at SBU, prospective students are assigned an advisor who provides guidance in admission to and completion of both the Master’s Degree and teacher certification requirements. It is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements for the interview with the Certification Officer in Teacher Education.

Admission Procedures

A. Criteria for full or unconditional admission to the Master of Science degree program:

Completion of Teacher Education File; and
An undergraduate Grade Point Average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale; and
A positive recommendation for admission from the Graduate Education Admissions Committee.

B. Admission Procedures for the Master of Science degree program:

Submit the following materials to the Office of Graduate Admissions:
1. An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
2. Official transcript(s) showing any previous graduate study.
3. A Graduate Studies application.
4. The following: Completion of Teacher Education File.
5. An application fee.
6. An admission questionnaire, including a handwritten statement describing the applicant’s motivation for pursuing a degree at Southwest Baptist University, must be submitted by the applicant.

Committee Action

After all admissions materials are filed, the Graduate Admissions Committee will meet and determine the admissibility of the candidate. One of the following actions will be taken:

The candidate may be unconditionally admitted to the graduate program at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may not be admitted to the graduate program and may not pursue a graduate degree at Southwest Baptist University.
The candidate may be conditionally admitted and may proceed to pursue the appropriate master’s degree if stated conditions are continuously met. The Graduate Admissions Committee may grant conditional admission to persons who do not fully meet all admissions criteria, but in the view of the committee demonstrate potential for completing the program and making a worthy contribution through teaching or building-level administration.
The Office of Graduate Admissions will notify the applicant in writing of the decision of the Graduate Admissions Committee. If the applicant is admitted conditionally, the conditions for continuing in the program will be listed and communicated in writing. An advisor will be announced in the letter. Students should communicate with their assigned advisor as soon as possible.

C. Conditional admission to the Master of Science Degree Program

Degree Requirements

To receive the Master of Science degree a student must:

Complete all course requirements;
Complete all course work with no more than 6 semester hours of C;
Receive a C or higher in all course work;
No more than 49% of the degree may be taken at one location with the exception of the Bolivar, Mountain View or Salem campuses;
Complete all requirements within 5 years of the date admitted to the graduate program. Requests for extensions must be made in writing and submitted to the Chair of Graduate Studies in Education.
Complete all certification requirements.

Persons wishing to pursue the Master of Science in Education degree at Southwest Baptist University should complete the process of admission to the graduate program as a classified degree-seeking student prior to the completion of 9 credit hours at SBU. The degree seeking student must complete, file and obtain approval of an official plan of study within 2 weeks following admission to the program. Plan of Study forms are available from the Office of Graduate Studies in Education. At least 15 hours must be completed after official admission to the degree program. The student should develop the plan of study in consultation with his/her advisor. As the student progresses through the program, any necessary changes in the plan of study must have the approval of the same advisor and the Division head of Education. Advisors will note changes in the permanent file of the student in the Office of Graduate Studies.

Master’s Degree with Alternative Certification

Southwest Baptist University offers a program by which qualified graduate students may become certified to teach in middle or secondary schools while earning the Master of Science in Education degree. The program is designed so that the participant may meet requirements for a Missouri teaching certificate and concurrently complete the requirements for the Master of Science in Education degree. The program allows a person to bypass content-specific coursework by way of passing the state required certification assessment. The graduate level courses are open only to students with a bachelor’s degree except by special permission from the Chair of Graduate Studies in Education. The intent of the program is to attract outstanding persons from other areas of study for entry into teaching. The program is designed for persons whose undergraduate study was related to the fields in which they plan to teach and who have an outstanding undergraduate record.

Criteria for admission into the Master’s Degree with Alternative Certification program are the same as for admission to Graduate Studies in Education. Additionally, the student is expected to complete a student file in the Office of Teacher Education before admission to the master’s program will be granted and to have completed EDU 2113, EDU 2313, and Field Experience 1. The state-required certification assessment must be passed before admission to the Teacher Education program. Enrollment in 3000-, 4000-, 5000- and 6000-level education courses is limited to those students who have a cumulative GPA of 2.75, a GPA of 3.0 in in professional education coursework, passed all state required assessments, and been approved by faculty in the Division of Education.

Dual-Listed Courses

The Education Masters program has four courses that are dual-listed at the undergraduate level. The dual-listed courses offer undergraduate students an opportunity to complete Masters in Literacy courses before they graduate and earn up to 12 credits toward their graduate degree.

The dual-listed course will be a 3000 or 4000-level course but is taught at the Masters level. Before the start of the course, if the student wants the course to count as graduate-level credit, the student will need to speak with the appropriate graduate education Masters Coordinator who will coordinate with the Registrar’s Office to ensure it is counted as graduate credit.

The dual-listed courses are:

The four courses below will work towards a Literacy Degree when the undergraduate students graduate.

EDU 3013 Analyzing and Amending Reading Problems for EDU 6013 - Analyzing and Amending Reading Problems - 3 Hours

EDU 3023 - Curriculum Planning and Assessment for EDU 5023 - Curriculum Design and Development - 3 Hours

EDU 3033 - Learner Develodual-listed for EDU 5033 - Learners and the Learning Process - 3 Hours

EDU 3213 - Evaluation of Abilities and Achievement for EDU 6213 Evaluation of Abilities and Achievement - 3 Hours

Withdrawal from Southwest Baptist University

Students who wish to withdraw from the University, must withdraw officially through the Office of Graduate Studies in Education.

If a student withdraws from school after 60% of the class has elapsed, a grade of W will be assigned in all courses where the student is passing as of the date of the withdrawal. In the event the student fails to notify the necessary office, his/her withdrawal is not complete and grades of F will be recorded for failure to attend classes.

Enrollment in the course is defined as: a student who pre-enrolls via telephone, a pre-enrollment form by mail, or an in-class enrollment. Following initial enrollment, the student is responsible to notify the proper officials if the student wishes to drop a course.