School of Education
DEPARTMENTSFrequently Asked Questions
Masters of Arts in Leadership in Student Affairs
How many credit hours are required for the degree?
The Masters of Arts in Student Affairs is a two-year, 38 semester hours credit program. The program requires work in three areas; foundations (15 credits), concentration (20 credits), and capstone (3 credits).
How long will it take to complete the program?
Full-time students can finish the program in two years or less with summer enrollment. Part-time students are encouraged to take 3-6 credits (1-2 classes) per semester. This makes it possible to complete the program in three years or less with summer enrollment.
Where and when are classes held?
Classes are held in the late afternoon, evening and occasional weekends on St. Thomas’s downtown Minneapolis campus
How large is the average class size?
Most graduate classes are 20-30 students, yet some can be as small as 6-8 students.
What type of computer & library facilities are available for research?
Keffer Library is one of four St. Thomas libraries. It supports undergraduate and graduate coursework in the fields of education, business and psychology. Keffer Library is located on the Minneapolis campus and offers information resources, services and instruction support to students. St. Thomas is also a member of CLICnet, Cooperating Libraries of Consortium. CLICnet is a combined catalog of Twin Cities colleges which greatly enhances the resources available to you.
Do I need undergraduate courses or a degree in education to be admitted?
You do need a Baccalaureate degree to be admitted to the program, however, student Affairs students come from a variety of areas of undergraduate study.
Can I be admitted in the spring semester?
Yes. You may start the program on-campus in the fall, spring or summer semesters. We encourage you to start in fall semester to join a cohort of colleagues. You’ll move through the program together with a supportive group.
Do I have to take the GRE or the MAT?
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores are only required for admission if your undergraduate GPA is less the 2.75.
Can I transfer graduate coursework into St. Thomas that was completed at another institution?
Maybe. This is a possibility; however decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the LSA Program Director, Dr. Kate Boyle directly for further information.
What is the difference between an assistantship and an internship?
“Assistantship” refers to the 20 hour/week work experience in a student affairs/services office for which you are paid and earn academic credit. “Internship” refers to an unpaid work experience in a student affairs/services office for which you also receive academic credit.
What if I already have a full-time job in student affairs at a college or university? Will I have to give up my job in order to complete an assistantship?
No. The LSA Program Director, Dr. Kate Boyle, will determine if your current position will substitute for one academic internship requirement.
What if I have a full-time job that is not related to student affairs?
You will eventually need to make arrangements to gain work experience in the area of student affairs. Two internships must be completed for the academic program, each requiring a minimum of 250 hours.
If you have any addition questions please e-mail the LSA Program Director, Dr. Kate Boyle.
