Explore East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

American Grading System: From GPA to Letter Grades

Are you considering pursuing a master’s degree at a prestigious institution? The University of Pennsylvania offers master’s programs in East Stroudsburg, providing a unique opportunity for advanced education. With a range of graduate programs available, you’ll find options that align with your career goals and academic interests. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills or pivot to a new field, these programs can open doors to exciting possibilities.

As you explore the University of Pennsylvania’s master’s programs in East Stroudsburg, you’ll discover a wealth of information about the courses, requirements, and student life. This article will cover the overview of East Stroudsburg University, the available master’s programs, admission criteria, tuition and financial aid options, and resources for students. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect when pursuing your master’s degree at this esteemed institution.

Overview of East Stroudsburg University

East Stroudsburg University (ESU) has a rich history dating back to 1893 when it opened its doors as East Stroudsburg Normal School. Today, it stands as a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for students seeking higher education.

History and Accreditation

The university’s journey began with the efforts of Reverend Chandler A. Oakes and Mr. Seely Rosenkrans, who rallied community support to establish a State Normal School in East Stroudsburg. Their dedication led to the founding of the institution, with the first building, Stroud Hall, constructed at a cost of $135,000. On September 4, 1893, the school welcomed its first cohort of 320 students and 15 faculty members.

Over the years, the institution underwent several name changes, reflecting its growth and expanded offerings. In 1920, it became East Stroudsburg State Normal School, and in 1927, it was renamed State Teachers College at East Stroudsburg. The college received its first accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools in 1950, a significant milestone in its development.

In 1960, the institution became East Stroudsburg State College, and in 1983, it officially gained university status as East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania. This transition marked a new era of academic expansion and research opportunities.

Campus and Facilities

ESU’s campus has grown significantly since its inception. The university now boasts 57 buildings spread across approximately 258 acres in East Stroudsburg Borough and Smithfield Township. The campus features a blend of modern and historic structures, providing students with state-of-the-art facilities for learning and research.

Some notable facilities include:

  1. Stroud Hall: The primary academic building with lecture halls, computer labs, and offices.
  2. Koehler Fieldhouse: Home to athletic programs and a 2,000-seat arena.
  3. Kemp Library: Offers extensive resources and study spaces for students.
  4. Science and Technology Center: Houses teaching and research laboratories, as well as the Schisler Museum of Wildlife & Natural History and McMunn Planetarium.
  5. Innovation Center: Focuses on economic development, entrepreneurship, and research initiatives.

The university also provides various housing options, including nine residence halls and the University Ridge apartment complex, accommodating over 2,000 students on campus.

Academic Colleges

ESU is organized into four undergraduate colleges and a graduate college, offering a diverse array of programs to meet students’ educational goals:

  1. College of Arts and Sciences: Encompasses the Faculties of Arts and Letters, Science, and Social Sciences.
  2. College of Business and Management: Established in 2007 to prepare students for careers in business and related fields.
  3. College of Education: Focuses on preparing future educators and educational leaders.
  4. College of Health Sciences: Offers programs in health-related disciplines, combining liberal arts with professional preparation.
  5. Graduate College: Provides over 20 master’s programs and two doctoral programs across various disciplines.

These colleges offer a total of 58 undergraduate programs, 21 master’s programs, and 2 doctoral programs, catering to a wide range of academic interests and career aspirations. The university’s commitment to providing quality education is evident in its blend of traditional and innovative programs, designed to prepare students for success in their chosen fields.

Master’s Programs Offered

East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania offers a diverse range of master’s programs to cater to various academic interests and career goals. With 21 master’s programs available, you have ample opportunities to advance your education and enhance your professional prospects.

Popular Master’s Degrees

Among the most sought-after graduate degrees at ESU is the Master of Education (M.Ed.). This program has several concentrations, including Elementary Education, Professional and Secondary Education, Reading, Special Education, Biology, History, Instructional Technology, and Political Science. The M.Ed. program is designed to help educators advance their careers and improve their teaching skills.

Another popular option is the Master of Science (M.S.) in Management and Leadership. This 33-credit program challenges you to develop your leadership abilities and understanding of human behavior in organizations. It covers topics such as individual and group behavior, organizational culture, and human resource management.

For those interested in health sciences, the Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) in Community Health Education is an excellent choice. This program prepares you for leadership roles in public health, focusing on community-based health promotion and disease prevention strategies.

The recently established Master of Science in Accounting is a 30-credit program that can be completed in just 12 months. It’s the only graduate-level Accounting program within a 60-mile radius and qualifies you to sit for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination.

Program Structure

Most master’s programs at ESU require 30-33 credits for completion. The structure typically includes core courses, elective courses, and in some cases, a thesis or capstone project. For example, the M.Ed. in Elementary Education requires 30 credits, including 9 credits of core courses, 12 credits of ELED elective courses, and 9 credits of general elective courses.

Many programs offer flexibility in course selection, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests and career goals. Some programs, like the M.S. in Management and Leadership, offer concentrations that allow you to specialize in areas such as Organizational Behavior or Sport Management.

Online vs On-Campus Options

ESU recognizes the importance of flexibility in graduate education. Many of its master’s programs offer both online and on-campus options, allowing you to choose the learning format that best fits your lifestyle and preferences.

For instance, the M.Ed. in Elementary Education can be completed entirely online or on campus. The program uses a dual delivery system for core and ELED elective courses, giving you the freedom to choose between online and in-person classes for each course.

The M.A. in Professional and Digital Media Writing is designed specifically for online access. This program allows you to study and participate from your home or office, making it ideal for working professionals. Depending on the course and instructor, some seminars may meet synchronously online, while others may be conducted asynchronously through email or online learning management systems.

Other programs, like the M.S. in Athletic Training, were developed as distance education programs from the start, catering to students who need more flexibility in their studies.

By offering this mix of online and on-campus options, East Stroudsburg University ensures that you can pursue your master’s degree in a way that aligns with your personal and professional commitments. Whether you prefer the traditional classroom experience or the convenience of online learning, you’ll find a program structure that suits your needs at ESU.

Admission Requirements

To pursue a master’s degree at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, you need to meet certain criteria and submit specific materials. The admission process is designed to identify students who have a strong academic background and the potential to succeed in graduate-level studies.

Academic Prerequisites

To be considered for admission to a master’s program at East Stroudsburg University, you must have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Your undergraduate grade point average (GPA) should be at least 2.50 on a 4.00 scale overall, with a 3.00 GPA in your major. Keep in mind that some graduate programs may have higher GPA requirements.

Depending on the program you’re applying to, there might be additional prerequisites. For instance, if you’re interested in the Communication Sciences & Disorders program, you’ll need to have completed specific undergraduate courses such as Introduction to Communication Disorders, Speech and Language Development, Phonetics, and Anatomy & Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanism, among others.

Standardized Test Scores

East Stroudsburg University has a test-optional admission process for most programs. This means that, with a few exceptions, you’re not required to submit standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) for the admissions process. This policy allows you to decide whether your test results accurately reflect your academic ability and potential.

However, some graduate programs do require specific tests. For example:

  • The Athletic Training program requires GRE scores
  • The Biology program also requires GRE scores

Even if your chosen program doesn’t require test scores for admission, it’s important to note that standardized test scores are used for Math and English placement once you’re enrolled. If you don’t provide these scores, you’ll need to take placement exams offered by the Mathematics and English departments.

Application Materials

To complete your application for a master’s program at East Stroudsburg University, you’ll need to submit the following materials:

  1. Online Application: You’ll need to fill out the Graduate Admission Application online.

  2. Official Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions you’ve attended, regardless of whether you earned a degree there. These should be sealed by the registrar and sent directly to the office of Graduate & Extended Studies.

  3. Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require two or three professional and current letters of recommendation. These should speak to your ability to succeed in graduate school, your career and academic goals, and your professional work experiences and skills.

  4. Professional Goal Statement: You’ll need to submit a statement outlining your perception of your ability to be successful in graduate school, your career and academic goals, your commitment to your field of study, and your professional work experiences and skills.

  5. Resume: Include an up-to-date resume with your application.

  6. Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of $50 must accompany your online application.

  7. Additional Program Requirements: Some programs may require additional documentation, such as writing samples or proof of certifications.

If you’re an international applicant or a non-US citizen or permanent resident and English isn’t your native language, you’ll also need to submit official scores from either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test (DET).

To ensure your application is reviewed in time, it’s recommended to submit all materials at least two weeks before the start of the semester, unless your program has a specific application deadline. Remember, incomplete applications won’t be considered, so make sure to submit all required materials.

By meeting these requirements and submitting a complete application package, you’ll be well on your way to pursuing your master’s degree at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Understanding the total cost of your education at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania is crucial for planning your graduate studies. The university offers competitive tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students pursuing master’s programs. For Pennsylvania residents, graduate tuition is set at $559 per credit, while non-residents pay $817 per credit. If you’re enrolled in a distance education approved program as a non-resident, you’ll benefit from a reduced rate of $526 per credit.

In addition to tuition, you’ll need to account for various fees that contribute to your overall educational experience. The general fee, which supports instructional and student support programs, varies based on your enrollment status. For graduate students taking 1-8 credits, it’s $77 per credit, while those enrolled in 9 or more credits pay a flat rate of $672 per semester. There’s also a technology fee of $28 per credit for residents and $40 per credit for non-residents, which enhances access to the latest classroom technology.

Scholarships and Grants

To help make your graduate education more affordable, East Stroudsburg University offers a range of scholarships and grants. These financial aid options can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and make pursuing your master’s degree more accessible.

The university provides merit-based scholarships that recognize academic excellence and potential. While many of these are geared towards undergraduate students, some may be available for graduate students as well. It’s worth exploring the specific scholarships offered by your chosen graduate program, as certain departments may have unique funding opportunities for their students.

For those with financial need, grants can be an excellent source of support. To be considered for federal aid, including grants, you’ll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application is crucial for determining your eligibility for various financial assistance programs.

Payment Plans

If you’re looking for flexibility in managing your tuition payments, East Stroudsburg University offers the Warrior Payment Plan. This option allows you to spread your educational expenses across monthly installments throughout the semester, making it easier to budget for your graduate studies.

For the Fall 2024 semester, you have several payment plan options:

  1. A 5-month plan with enrollment from July 15, 2024, to August 9, 2024.
  2. A 4-month plan with enrollment from August 12, 2024, to September 6, 2024.
  3. A 3-month plan with enrollment from September 9, 2024, to October 4, 2024.

Each plan has a $35 enrollment fee, and you’ll need to re-enroll each semester. The last day to sign up for a Fall 2024 payment plan is October 4, 2024.

It’s important to note that as a graduate student, your financial aid options may differ from those available to undergraduates. While federal loans are available, they are limited for graduate programs. You may be eligible for up to $10,250 in federal loans per semester, provided you’re enrolled in at least 6 credits. Additionally, Graduate PLUS loans allow you to borrow up to the full cost of your academic year, minus any other financial aid received.

Student Life and Resources

As a graduate student at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, you’ll have access to a wide range of resources and opportunities to enhance your academic experience and personal growth. From comfortable housing options to career development services and research opportunities, ESU is committed to supporting your success both inside and outside the classroom.

Housing Options

While pursuing your master’s degree at ESU, you have several housing choices to consider. The university offers on-campus living experiences that foster friendship, self-growth, and engagement. You’ll have the chance to make meaningful connections and develop lasting relationships with other students while being in close proximity to campus amenities.

On-campus housing includes five traditional residence halls, three suite-style residence halls, and the University Ridge and University Apartments complexes. These facilities are equipped with lounges, kitchens, laundry and vending facilities. All residence halls are smoke-free and provide a supportive living and learning environment where you can explore your interests and values.

For those preferring off-campus options, the Residence Life and Housing Office provides a list of apartment and room rental opportunities in the surrounding area. They also offer a Guide to Off-Campus Living, which provides valuable information on what to look for when deciding to live off campus, including tips on inspecting a dwelling and reviewing lease agreements.

Career Services

The Career and Workforce Development office at ESU is dedicated to providing you with the tools and resources necessary for a successful career journey. They offer a range of services to support your career exploration, professional training, and development of industry-specific skills, giving you a competitive edge in the global economy.

Some of the key services offered include:

  1. Career coaching and interview preparation
  2. Job and internship search techniques
  3. Networking tips and hiring trends information
  4. Resume and cover letter assistance
  5. Graduate program application support

The office also provides access to Focus2 Career, a tool that guides you through a reliable career and education decision-making model. Additionally, you can explore “What Can I Do With This Major?” to review career paths for your academic major and develop strategies for achieving success.

To enhance your professional network, you can take advantage of LinkedIn profile development assistance and connect with ESU alumni mentors through the university’s mentorship program.

Research Opportunities

ESU recognizes the importance of research in graduate education and provides excellent opportunities and resources for students to engage in scholarly activities. As a graduate student, you’ll have the chance to work closely with faculty members on cutting-edge research projects in your field of study.

The university offers several avenues for research engagement:

  1. Graduate Assistantship Program (GA): This program provides valuable educational and professional experiences related to your degree program.

  2. Graduate Student Researchers (GSR): Faculty members can apply to have graduate students work with them on research projects during the summer or academic year, with grants covering student stipends.

  3. Annual Student Research and Creative Activity Symposium: This event allows you to showcase your research results through oral presentations, poster sessions, or creative performances.

  4. Sigma Xi Grants in Aid of Research: These grants offer up to $1,000 to students in sciences and engineering for research-related expenses.

By participating in these research opportunities, you’ll have the chance to hone your skills, present at conferences, publish research findings, and work side-by-side with professors in laboratories, in the field, and in the classroom.

Through these housing options, career services, and research opportunities, East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania aims to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience for graduate students pursuing their master’s degrees. These resources are designed to support your academic success, professional development, and personal growth throughout your time at ESU.

Conclusion

Pursuing a master’s degree at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania has an impact on your academic and professional growth. The university’s diverse range of programs, flexible learning options, and support services provide a solid foundation to advance your career. From the M.Ed. in Elementary Education to the M.S. in Management and Leadership, ESU offers programs that cater to various interests and career goals. The blend of online and on-campus options allows you to choose a learning format that fits your lifestyle.

East Stroudsburg University goes beyond academics to offer a comprehensive graduate experience. The university provides resources to support your studies, including career services to help you navigate your professional path and research opportunities to deepen your knowledge in your field. With affordable tuition rates, scholarship options, and flexible payment plans, ESU strives to make advanced education accessible. In the end, a master’s degree from East Stroudsburg University equips you with the skills and knowledge to excel in your chosen field.