Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take me to complete the degree programs?

Most degree programs are designed to be completed in two years or less.

Do online degree students receive a different degree than on-campus students? Is the online degree less credible?

The degree you’ll earn as an online graduate student is the same as that earned by campus-based students. The online courses embody the same learning outcomes and high level of academic excellence, educational rigor, and faculty. Read more about this and other misconceptions of online degrees in the blog post “Should You Get Your Master’s Degree Online?”

Which faculty will be teaching the degree programs?

Full time University of San Diego faculty, as well as adjunct faculty who are expert practitioners, lead the instructional efforts of the online degree programs, ensuring the highest academic excellence. Check out the faculty for each program at the links below:

• • Master of Education
  • MS in Applied Artificial Intelligence
  • MS in Applied Data Science
  • MS in Cyber Security Engineering
  • MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership
  • MS in Engineering, Sustainability and Health
  • MS in Health Care Informatics
  • MS in Humanitarian Action
  • MS in Information Technology Leadership
  • MS in Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship
  • MS in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership
  • MS in Learning Design and Technology
  • MS in Nonprofit Leadership & Management
  • MS of Theological Studies

Are your programs regionally accredited?

The University of San Diego is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and is approved for veterans.

The WASC Senior College and University Commission (“the Commission”) is a regional accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as certifying institutional eligibility for federal funding in a number of programs, including student access to federal financial aid. Learn more about the importance of selecting a regionally accredited program.

What support do you provide to help me complete my master’s degree program?

Here at USD, you’re never treated like a number. From undivided attention with faculty to one-on-one admission and program counseling, our goal is to personalize your entire experience, surround you with support and ensure your success. Read more about Student Support.

What is the online course format?

Each course is 7-weeks long with prescribed due dates for each assignment. Course assignments are asynchronous, which means you don’t need to log in on a specific day and time, but rather have the flexibility to complete your coursework on your time. Assignments are typically due every Monday, which gives you the weekend to work on coursework if you work during the week.

Our courses are administered through Canvas. When you first log in, you will find all of the information you’ll need to successfully complete the class, such as announcements, the syllabus, the course calendar, course materials, assignments, and exams. Coursework, quizzes, and presentations are delivered via different mediums, and students have ample opportunity to communicate with their instructor and one another within the Canvas environment. The following week’s lesson is typically posted three days prior to the start of the week, giving you the chance to get a head start on the assignments if your schedule permits. Learn more about the online experience at USD.

How can I determine whether online education is for me?

There are many misconceptions about online degrees, but the reality is that, for most working adults, online is a more viable option than a campus-based program. With an online program, you can avoid the hassle of commuting to campus and finding a parking spot, and just as important you can do your coursework on the days and times that best suit your schedule. You also have the option of choosing the university and program that best suits your needs, regardless of how far it is from your home. We have students from across the country, and even outside the U.S., enrolled in our online degree programs. Read the blog post “Should You Get Your Master’s Degree Online?” for more tips on deciding whether online is a good option for you.

Is financial aid available?

Yes, visit USD’s Financial Aid webpage for a list of deadlines, requirements and instructions for applying for financial aid.

Does USD offer other payment options besides financial aid?

The University of San Diego offers an interest-free Monthly Payment Plan ($50 processing fee/term). Learn more about setting up a monthly payment plan.

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.

Who can I talk to about the degree programs?

Contact one of our Enrollment Advisors at 619-260-4580. Or fill out the form on the Contact Us page.

Is it true you offer online degrees for students in India?

Yes! We are proud to offer a selection of our postgraduate degrees to students who wish to study online in India. These students will get the same credential as an on-campus student or an online student in the US. The curriculum is just as rigorous and holistic as it is on campus, however it is globalized for the Indian audience so that the coursework applies to both Indian and the international job markets. In addition, to minimize language and cultural barriers the instructors are all from India and hired at the same standard as our campus faculty – with real-world experience and impressive academic backgrounds.

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.

What are the admissions requirements?

Admission requirements vary by program, but please be prepared to supply the following:

• A completed, online application
• Official transcripts for the completion of your bachelor’s degree.
• A course-by-course transcript evaluation for any coursework completed outside the United States.
• At least one letter of recommendation (varies by program)
• Current resume/CV
• Personal statement, statement of purpose, or essay (varies by program)

Review specific admission requirements by program.

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 MS 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.

Is financial aid available?

Yes, visit USD’s Financial Aid webpage for a list of deadlines, requirements and instructions for applying for financial aid.

Does USD offer other payment options besides financial aid?

The University of San Diego offers an interest-free Monthly Payment Plan ($50 processing fee/term). Learn more about setting up a monthly payment plan.

What is the tuition for the master’s degree programs?

Tuition for USD’s master’s degree programs is based on a per unit fee, which varies by program. The cost per unit is the same for international students or non-California residents, since we are a private institution. Please visit your program of interest to view specific tuition information.

What additional fees will I be responsible for?

Check with an Enrollment Advisor for the most current fees. The Application Fee is $45. Online degree students are not responsible for the following:

• Student health insurance
• Health service fee
• Student Association fee
• Student Life Pavilion fee

Can I get a refund if I don’t start classes?

For students in the online graduate programs both courses must be dropped prior to the first day of the semester to receive a 100% refund, and within the first three days of the semester to receive a 95% refund. No refund will be provided after the third day of the semester.

Students requesting to withdraw after the third day of the semester must withdraw by week five of the course. Students will receive a grade of “W” and no refund will be provided.