Admission Requirements

Can I still apply if I don’t meet one or more of the admissions criterion, but have a special circumstance that makes me a good candidate for the program?

Each applicant’s admissions packet is reviewed holistically, with full consideration of your professional experience, education, personal statement and letters of recommendation. Any exception to meeting the admissions requirements is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. An Enrollment Advisor will be happy to help you address all questions regarding your candidacy for the program.

How do I get started with the application process?

Click here to watch a series of short videos explaining how to fill out your online application.

If you are ready to apply to a program now start here.

It’s always best to connect with an Enrollment Advisor, who can also help you navigate the application details as well as help you order your official transcripts.

Are there special admission requirements for international students?

Yes. In addition to the admissions requirements, international students must also complete and submit the following:

• English Language Exam
• Course by Course Transcript and Credential Evaluations by one of our approved providers.

International Student Resources

When is the application deadline?

Applications are processed on a rolling basis, which means the admissions committee will begin the review of your application soon after it is complete and all supporting documentation has been received. You are encouraged to submit your application as soon as possible rather than wait for the published deadline to avoid any unexpected delays in tracking down official transcripts or requesting letters of recommendation.

• Fall applications are due in August
• Spring applications are due in December
• Summer applications are due in April

Specific deadlines are published on our academic calendar.

Do you accept transfer credit?

Admitted students can petition for transfer credits/units of graduate coursework, up to 6 credits, taken within the last 5 years, from a previously attended regionally accredited institution. Please note that the courses you are seeking to transfer in cannot have been taken as part of a completed graduate degree, and must be equivalent to a required course in your degree program. The M.S. in Law Enforcement & Public Safety Leadership program provides additional opportunities for transfer credit beyond this 6 unit limit.

What is the admissions process timeline for international students?

International applicants should start three months before the deadline.

If you do not meet all the admission requirements (for example, if your undergraduate GPA is below the stated minimum for the program) and would like to ask for an exception, please allow extra time. You may be asked to provide additional support materials such as an essay as part of your application package to demonstrate your readiness to succeed in a graduate degree program.

What if I have a bachelor’s degree from a nationally accredited university?

A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university is required for admission. National accreditation is not recognized as an equal standard. If you received your undergraduate degree from a nationally accredited university, please work with your Enrollment Advisor to request an evaluation of your specific situation.

What happens if I can’t start the program the same term to which I was admitted?

You can request to defer admission to your degree program for one year. For example, if you were accepted to the Fall 2021 term, you can request to defer your admission to as late as Fall 2022. Requests must be made via an online form that will be provided to you by your enrollment advisor or program coordinator.