Online and Distance Master's Programs and Graduate Certificates

Agricultural Education offers graduate study leading to the M.Ed. and M.S. degrees. Advanced work may involve specialized training in vocational education, extension education, international extension, and agricultural education.

Some courses focus on problems related to various phases of Agricultural Education, including secondary, post-secondary, adult, and extension programs. Others emphasize issues common to all service areas in agricultural and extension education. Provision may be made for candidates to include internships in agribusiness, natural resources education, or other aspects of agricultural and extension education in their programs. 

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In this era of big data, analytics professionals are in demand. Graduate students and working professionals will develop the skills that can be applied to various tech-related careers, such as data scientist, statistical programmer, business analytics, computer programmer, and data engineer. As a student in this program, you will gain expertise in applied statistics, practical machine learning, data manipulation, data visualization, database system, and parallel computing. You can expect to learn how to use programming languages such as R, SQL, or Python. 

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For more information, consult the Big Data Applied Statistics Analysis website.

The Biomedical Engineering (BME) programs provide opportunities for technically qualified persons to attain specialized knowledge in an area of industry need, and to enhance career opportunities. The graduate programs in are offered jointly by NDSU’s College of Engineering, UND’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences, and UND’s College of Engineering and Mines.

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For more information, visit the program page.

The MBA program at North Dakota State University is a non-thesis, professional program structured to serve qualified students with undergraduate degrees in various fields. The program is designed to provide the student with an effective set of analytical skills, a broad view of the way organizations work, and an understanding of the functional areas of business. The NDSU program provides a generalized core curriculum along with a variety of elective options in areas such as business analytics, digital marketing and innovation, and leadership and managerial skills. 

*The online MBA program is available to individuals with significant (five or more years of) post-baccalaureate professional work experience. Core courses are delivered in a synchronous online format in the evenings, with numerous elective options offered in both synchronous and asynchronous online formats.

*Individuals with less than five years of experience may apply to the on-campus/hybrid MBA program.

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Contact Information

College of Business
Phone: (701) 231-6038
Email: Elizabeth.Worth@ndsu.edu

The online Community Development program is designed for community economic development officials, community leaders, practitioners, specialists nationwide who are already employed in the field, and for those who are committed to people and places. It provides the skills, information, and networks needed to facilitate sustainable and prosperous community change. Graduates will be prepared to initiate social action processes and help to maintain balance to improve social economic cultural and environmental situations.

Community development training is essential because it:

• Initiates social action processes and helps to maintain balance to improve social economic cultural and environmental situations.
• Encourages people to see the whole picture.
• Engages citizens in democratic decision-making and action.
• Teaches critical thought, ethical consideration, careful planning and involvement of all stakeholders.

The program is offered through the Interactive Distance Education Alliance (IDEA).

Curriculum
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Contact Information

NDSU Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Phone: (701) 231-8657
Email: christina.d.weber@ndsu.edu

NDSU IDEA Coordinator
Phone: (701) 231-7015

This online certificate program is a good fit for high school teachers in need of credentials to teach "dual credit" courses in their schools as well as AP Computer Science instructors. In addition to being online, the courses are taught in the summer in a condensed or hybrid format.

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Contact Information
gradinfo@cs.ndsu.edu 

Individuals working in all types of construction including residential, commercial, industrial, highway, and heavy construction may benefit from an online Master of Construction Management degree. This professional program consists of 30 credits of course work and the Associate Constructor (AC) Exam.

The Associate Constructor (AC) Exam is administered by the American Institute of Constructors and Constructor Certification Commission. All students in the Master of Construction Management Program must take the AC Exam before their graduation. There is no requirement that a student has to earn a pass score in order to receive the Master of Construction Management Degree from NDSU. However, students are encouraged to prepare the AC Exam and earn a pass score or better established by the testing agency. The exam may be taken multiple times. The AC exam is the first level in reaching the designation of a “Certified Professional Constructor” (CPC) which is a three-stage process consisting of the AC exam (Level I), 4-5 years of relevant construction management work experience, and the CPC exam (Level II).  The AC Exam is offered twice a year, typically in March and November. International applicants should note that the AC Exam is not offered online and is only offered in the United States.

The Associate Constructor (AC) certification is intended for constructors and supervisors who are in the early stages of their careers. The exam questions are primarily based upon education knowledge. The Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) certification is intended for the Professional Constructor who has been in the field for several years and exam questions cover both education and experience-based knowledge.

Certificate

We also offer a nine credit online Construction Management Graduate Certificate. Graduate certificates are valuable tools for career advancement and are designed for individuals who want to gain credentials at the graduate-level prior to completing a full master's program. Credits from the graduate certificate are designed to transfer into a full graduate degree program.

The Graduate Certificate in Construction Management program provides online course instruction in estimating, scheduling, and project management at the graduate level. These three areas constitute a body of knowledge that represents the fundamental core of construction management.

Curriculum
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Frequently Asked Questions

If I don’t have a construction related undergraduate degree can I be accepted into the program?
If you have work experience in construction you may be eligible for admission into the program. Ensure that when you fill out your application that you make it known that you have construction experience. You may also consider getting a letter of recommendation from your supervisor at your construction job. In general, the construction management program looks for individuals with an undergraduate degree in construction, engineering, architecture, or other related disciplines.

If I complete the Master of Construction Management program, what initials can I put behind my name?
Students who successfully complete the requirements for and graduate from the Master of Construction Management program are able to place the credentials MCM after their name. MCM stands for Master of Construction Management and signifies that an individual has completed the requirements to earn that credential.

Are the graduate-level programs in construction management accredited?
The graduate-level construction management programs are accredited through NDSU's accreditation by the North Central Association of Colleges and Universities. At the program level the graduate-level construction management programs do not require any special, additional accreditation.

Can I be admitted to the program if I do not have a 3.0 GPA in my undergraduate work?
Individuals with a GPA lower than 3.0 can be admitted into the online Construction Management Graduate Certificate program. If their GPA in that program is above 3.0, they can then be admitted into the full online Master's in Construction Management program. If your GPA is lower than 3.0 consider applying for the graduate certificate program. Classes in the graduate certificate program can be transferred into the full master's program.

How long will it take to complete this online master's program?
The length of time to completion of the degree can vary between 15 months and five years. Why the wide variation in completion time? Completion time depends on a variety of factors including things such as: how many classes a student can take each semester and whether or not the student takes the AC exam immediately following coursework. It is important to know how many credits you feel you can complete each semester because the courses are taught on a rotational basis. This means if you miss a class in fall semester, for example, you may need to wait until the next fall semester to take that course.

Contact Information

NDSU Department of Construction Management and Engineering
Phone: (701) 231-6202

NDSU Graduate School 
Phone: (701) 231-8476
Email: Neely.Benton@ndsu.edu

NDSU’s Computer Science department offers a graduate certificate in cybersecurity in conjunction with Minot State University and the University of North Dakota. This certificate is well suited to working practitioners. NDSU students may also earn the certificate concurrently with other graduate studies.

Students take three core courses, one at each of the collaborating institutions, and one elective course. This certificate program gives students a broad foundation of cybersecurity. 

Contact Information

Dr. Jeremy Straub
jeremy.straub@ndsu.edu

Our master’s degree program is designed to equip you with advanced skills for success in today's data-driven world. This strategic program seamlessly blends statistics and computer science, providing a deep understanding of data analysis, predictive modeling, and machine learning techniques while establishing a robust foundation in statistical methodologies and computational proficiency. Navigate data collection, interpretation, and cleaning intricacies, simultaneously mastering programming languages and tools crucial for efficient data manipulation and analysis. Through a specialized focus on statistics, you'll gain the expertise to extract valuable insights from complex datasets, make informed data-driven decisions, and expertly communicate findings to diverse audiences. By harmoniously merging statistics and computer science, this program empowers you to tackle real-world challenges using the power of data. Whether your ambitions gravitate towards data science, machine learning, or business analysis, our flexible master's degree, enriched by the guidance of experienced faculty from two departments, opens doors to opportunities in the dynamic landscape of data science.

Moreover, in the age of big data, the role of a data scientist exceeds conventional analytics, demanding proficiency across the entire data science lifecycle. In addition to analytical skills, it is crucial to master the capacity for crafting relevant questions, consolidating data from various sources, integrating insights, transforming raw information into actionable solutions, and effectively communicating discoveries to facilitate impactful decision-making. As the industry landscape evolves, the escalating demand for this comprehensive proficiency underscores the need for an innovative M.S. program. This initiative cultivates upcoming data scientists, equipping them with indispensable skills to not only fulfill but surpass these rapidly growing expectations.
 

For more information please contact:

Simone Ludwig
simone.ludwig@ndsu.edu 
701.231.8197

or

Rhonda Magel
rhonda.magel@ndsu.edu 

Our businesses and entrepreneurial communities are in need of skilled marketing professionals with expertise in a variety of areas. Meet the demand by honing your skills in the areas of innovation, marketing analytics, digital marketing, and marketing communications.

Required Courses
MBA 721 Creating and Marketing Innovations
MBA 722 Marketing Analytics and Customer Intelligence*
MBA 723 Digital Marketing
MBA 724 Integrated Marketing Communications

Apply for Admission

Contact Information

College of Business
Phone: (701) 231-6038
Email: Elizabeth.Worth@ndsu.edu

The School of Education at NDSU offers graduate study leading to the Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Master of Science (M.S.) degrees.

Curriculum and Instruction
The program focuses on further development of teacher leaders through study of instructional delivery and enhancement. The program curriculum includes areas of human development, learning, foundations of education, school curriculum, roles of schools and society, and further study in areas of interest. Candidates choosing this option for an M.S. degree must also complete a thesis.

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Contact Information

Dr. Ashley Baggett
ashley.baggett@ndsu.edu

The online M.Ed. in Family and Consumer Sciences Education prepares students to plan curriculum for teaching, create a physical and psychological environment for learning, engage students in the learning process, examine the relationship of diverse groups and the educational process, analyze the historical and philosophical underpinnings of family and consumer sciences, assume professional responsibilities, and apply research to practice.

This program, offered through the Interactive Distance Education Alliance, is designed for individuals who have a bachelor's degree in a family and consumer sciences (FACS) content specialization or a related area, and are seeking initial teaching certification/licensure in family and consumer sciences.

The program will offer the pedagogy (professional development) courses needed for certification/licensure. Depending on the individual’s bachelor’s degree, there will most likely be several content courses that will need to be taken as well to meet licensing requirements. Licensing also involves state mandated tests. Student teaching is included in this program. Teacher certification/licensure standards vary by state, and students must meet all the requirements in the state in which they wish to become certified. These may include additional courses in the teaching specialization, testing, and other requirements. Prior to admission, students will be required to develop a certification plan based on the standards of the state in which they want to be certified.

Curriculum
Faculty
Admission Requirements
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Contact Information

NDSU School of Education
Phone: (701) 231-7921

NDSU IDEA Coordinator
Phone: (701) 231-7015

Frequently Asked Questions

How does licensing work for the M.Ed. in FACS program if I am not from ND?
There are two ways to obtain a license for the online M.Ed. in Family and Consumer Sciences program. It is usually easiest to get a North Dakota (ND) teaching license and take it to the state in which you wish to teach. There may be a couple of courses that your teaching state will require in addition to having the ND teaching license, but they usually will allow you to teach for a couple of years and take the additional courses during that time. It is very important to make sure that your state will honor a license from ND should you choose this route. 

The second way is to be in very close contact with the state teacher licensing board in the state in which you wish to teach and to take the content area courses (in addition to the IDEA master’s courses) which your state requires. In ND, you would be licensed for grades 7-12. 

My undergraduate GPA is lower than a 3.0. Am I still eligible to apply to this program?
You will need to apply as a non-degree seeking graduate student. You will need to take three graduate courses (3 credits each) in the FACS IDEA program and achieve at least a B in each of the courses. Then, you can apply to our program as a degree-seeking student. You may only use nine credits taken as a non-degree student towards your degree. Be sure to apply as degree-seeking as soon as possible after taking those courses (or while taking the last of the courses).

I am seeking a FACS teaching license.  Will I need to take any additional courses besides those listed in the GPIDEA master’s program?
You will most likely need to take some undergraduate “content” courses along with the courses in the FACS master’s program. These are not required for the degree, but they are required for licensure. As each state has different requirements, you will need to contact the Department of Instruction or Education Standards and Practices Board in the state where you would like to become licensed. If you are planning to become licensed in ND, Dr. Mari Borr (mari.borr@ndsu.edu) has a list of the required courses.  The exact courses you will need also depends upon the courses taken during your previous college work.

Who is my advisor and how will we communicate?
Your advisor will be Dr. Mari Borr, Associate Professor in Teacher Education. Dr. Borr taught middle school and high school Family and Consumer Sciences for fourteen years in North Dakota. It is important to contact her immediately when you have questions. She will contact you twice a year (Oct. and Mar.) to set up advising meetings to plan your courses for the upcoming semester. Although it is not necessary to meet in person, meeting via phone, FaceTime, or Skype will be important to make sure you are on track with your plan of study and to ensure a timely graduation.

An online Family Financial Planning graduate certificate, offered through the Interactive Distance Education Alliance, is a great option for students and professionals who don't want to pursue a master's degree, but are looking to meet the educational requirements to sit for the Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC), or Certified Housing Counselor (CHC) exam. The Family Financial Planning graduate certificate is offered in two different options:

• Financial Planning
• Financial Counseling

What is the difference between earning a graduate certificate and earning a master’s degree in Family Financial Planning?
A certificate is a way of showing that you have completed a coherent set of courses within a certain field. Both the Financial Planning and the Financial and Housing Counseling Graduate Certificates cover a subset of courses that are included the master’s program. If you are interested in the certificate program and decide to continue on to the master’s program, the courses you take for the certificate program will apply to the master's degree.

Curriculum
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Contact Information

NDSU Department of Human Development and Family Science
Phone: (701) 231-7568
Email: Jim.Deal@ndsu.edu

NDSU IDEA Coordinator
Phone: (701) 231-7015

Joel Hektner
Prof/Unit Head
Human Development and Family Science
EML 277B
(701) 231-8269
joel.hektner@ndsu.edu

The 15-credit certificate in Gerontology is a valuable tool for career advancement and is designed for individuals who want to gain graduate credentials in this growing field. A graduate certificate can also be used to supplement a master's degree in another field.

What is the difference between earning a graduate certificate and earning a master’s degree in gerontology?
A certificate is a way of showing that you have completed a coherent set of courses within a certain field. The Gerontology Graduate Certificate covers a subset of courses that are in the master’s program. If you are interested in the certificate program and decide to continue on to the master’s program the courses you take for the certificate program will apply.

Curriculum
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Contact Information

NDSU Department of Human Development and Family Science
Phone: (701) 231-7099

NDSU IDEA Coordinator
Phone: (701) 231-7015

Family Financial Planning is an emerging area with job opportunities in areas related to insurance, real estate, investments, retirement, tax and estate planning. Financial planners are increasingly in demand as Americans seek financial service advisors to help manage their income, assets, and debts.

The online M.S. in Human Development and Family Science: Family Financial Planning (FFP) option, offered through the Interactive Distance Education Alliance, will enhance your knowledge of personal and family financial management. Students gain eligibility to sit for the CFP® Certification Examination, increase networking opportunities, and improve career options.

Career opportunities available to persons with special training in Family Financial Planning include:

• Financial planners or financial management consultants use their knowledge of investments, tax laws, and insurance to recommend financial options to individuals in accordance with the individual's short-term and long-term financial goals. Some of the issues that financial planners address are retirement and estate planning, funding for college, and general investment options.
• Financial analysts assess the economic performance of companies and industries for firms and institutions with money to invest.
• Insurance agents specialize in life and health insurance or property and casualty insurance and a growing number of "multi-line" agents sell all lines of insurance.
• Family Financial Planning (FFP) has been registered by the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Board of Standards. CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® are federally registered service marks of the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Board of Standards, Inc. They are granted by the CFP® Board to persons who have fulfilled a comprehensive educational requirement, passed the CFP® Certification Examination, satisfied a work experience requirement, and agreed to abide by the CFP® Board Code of Ethical Conduct.

Certificate

We also offer an 18 credit online Family Financial Planning Graduate Certificate and an online Financial and Housing Counseling Graduate Certificate. Graduate certificates are valuable tools for career advancement and are designed for individuals who want to gain credentials at the graduate-level prior to completing a full master's program. Credits from the graduate certificate are designed to transfer into a full graduate degree program.

Curriculum
Faculty
Admission Requirements
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Family Financial Planning master’s program?
A student can earn the Family Financial Planning master’s degree in two years as a full-time student taking nine credits a semester, with no summer classes. Students can take three, six, or nine credits a semester. Students, who also take summer classes may be able to finish one semester early. 

Are students required to come to campus during the program?
No, the program is completely online.

Is a practicum or thesis required for this program?
Students enrolled in the master’s program typically take six credits of practicum. For students interested in further education or research, another option is to do a master’s thesis (6 credits) or a master’s paper (3 credits) plus one additional 3-credit course or practicum.

Which university will I receive my degree from?
If you apply and are admitted to NDSU, you will receive a degree from NDSU even though some of your courses will be taught by professors from other institutions.

What is the difference between earning a graduate certificate and earning a master’s degree in Family Financial Planning?
A certificate is a way of showing that you have completed a coherent set of courses within a certain field. Both the Financial Planning and the Financial and Housing Counseling Graduate Certificates cover a subset of courses that are included the master’s program. If you are interested in the certificate program and decide to continue on to the master’s program, the courses you take for the certificate program will apply to the master's degree.

Can I transfer previous graduate coursework into this program?
You can transfer up to nine credits into the Family Financial Planning master’s program if they are relevant to the program. You must provide the syllabus of those courses to the Department of Human Development and Family Science graduate program in order to determine if the coursework is relevant.

I am employed full-time and have a family. How many credits would you recommend I take each semester?
For students with family and employment obligations, we recommend taking three credits the first semester. Then students are able to see how it works with their schedule and can determine how many courses they are able to take each semester.

Can I take some Family Financial Planning classes without being admitted to the program?
You can be admitted to the graduate school as a non-degree student and take Family Financial Planning classes without being in the program. Class sizes are very limited and students who are in the program are able to register first. The instructor needs to agree to allow non-degree students into their class. Non-degree students cannot register until a couple weeks before the semester in order to allow students in the program to register.

Will this program prepare me for a Ph.D. program?
If you are interested in applying to a Ph.D. program, we suggest you do a thesis instead of a practicum.

Is the program accredited? 
There is no accreditation in the Family Financial Planning field. Online degrees and classes offered through NDSU Distance and Continuing Education are accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and are approved through the academic departments and colleges at NDSU. The Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) Board of Standards has approved the FFP master’s program as sufficient preparation for students to take the CFP certification examination.

What impact can I have getting the degree when there are so many online options for families to use Is the degree still valuable today?
Precisely because there is so much “free” information online for families, it’s important to distinguish experts in the field from scammers. Earning the certificate or degree in FFP and then the CFP designation is now more important than ever, because it is a marker for families that you have the necessary background and follow ethical standards of practice.

What is this degree called?
The degree is a Master’s of Science in Human Development and Family Science: Family Financial Planning option. The “Family Financial Planning” option title appears on the student’s transcript. It is an advantage to have the broader field of human development and family science also listed in the title of the degree, to signify that your education in FFP was grounded in a well-established discipline that provides depth of knowledge in the family and social context.

Is there a required degree to be admitted into the program?
There is not a required undergraduate degree to be admitted. Some experience as an undergraduate with social science courses (e.g. psychology, sociology) or business courses is helpful.

What is the application process for the Family Financial Planning program?
To be admitted to the program, applicants must meet the Graduate School admission and application requirements.

What do I do after I am admitted to the program?
Students will need work with their advisor to identify the classes they should register for and then notify the NDSU IDEA coordinator of those classes as soon as possible since class sizes are limited. 

Contact Information

NDSU Department of Human Development and Family Science
Phone: (701) 231-7568
Email: Jim.Deal@ndsu.edu

NDSU IDEA Coordinator
Phone: (701) 231-7015

Joel Hektner
Prof/Unit Head
Human Development and Family Science
EML 277B
(701) 231-8269
joel.hektner@ndsu.edu

Gerontology is an emerging field with job opportunities related to health promotion, education, research, inter-generational activities, senior centers, and retirement communities.

Students enrolled in the online Gerontology program, offered through the Interactive Distance Education Alliance, will gain knowledge of the physical, mental, and social changes associated with aging, investigate societal changes due to an aging population, apply obtained knowledge to policies and programs and will broaden their career options.

Two major tracks for working in the field of Gerontology are available:

• Direct Service: involves working directly with older persons in such areas as health promotion programs, inter-generational activities for older persons, senior centers, or retirement communities. Direct care to frail elderly, counseling older persons and their families, and assisting persons with financial and personal preparation for retirement are also areas of direct service that need trained professionals.
   
• Education and Research: Gerontologists can also work in education and research. This can include evaluating community-based services; conducting research on the aging process and social and developmental aspects of aging; teaching students, professionals, and older adults and their families about aging; aging policy development; and program planning and administration.

Certificate

We also offer a 15 credit online Gerontology Graduate Certificate. Graduate certificates are valuable tools for career advancement and are designed for individuals who want to gain credentials at the graduate-level prior to completing a full master's program. Credits from the graduate certificate are designed to transfer into a full graduate degree program.

Curriculum
Faculty
Admission Requirements
Apply for Admission

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the gerontology program?
A student can earn a Gerontology Master’s degree in two years as a full-time student taking nine credits a semester. Students can take three, six or nine credits a semester.

Are students required to come to campus during the program?
No, the program is completely online.

Is a practicum or thesis required for this program?
Students enrolled in the master’s program have three options: six credits of practicum, three credits of practicum and three credits of master's paper or six credits of master's thesis. For students preparing for direct care or direct service work, the six-credit practicum is recommended for experience. Students interested in education or research are recommended to take either the practicum and master’s paper option or the master’s thesis option.

Which university will I receive my degree from?
If you apply and are admitted to NDSU, you will receive a degree from NDSU even though some of your courses will be taught by professors from other institutions.

What is the difference between earning a graduate certificate and earning a master’s degree in gerontology?
A certificate is a way of showing that you have completed a coherent set of courses within a certain field. The Gerontology Graduate Certificate covers a subset of courses that are in the master’s program. If you are interested in the certificate program and decide to continue on to the master’s program the courses you take for the certificate program will apply.

Can I transfer previous graduate coursework into this program?
You can transfer up to nine credits into the Gerontology Master’s program if they are relevant to the program. The syllabus of those courses will need to be provided to the Department of Human Development and Family Science graduate program in order to determine if the coursework is relevant.

I am employed full time and have a family, how many credits would you recommend I take each semester?
For students with family and employment obligations we recommend taking three credits (one course) the first semester. Then students are able to see how it works with their schedule and can determine how many courses they are able to take each semester.

Can I take some gerontology classes without being admitted to the program?
You can be admitted to the graduate school as a non-degree student and take gerontology classes without being in the program. Class sizes are very limited and students who are in the program are able to register first. The instructor needs to agree to allow non-degree students into their class. Non-degree students cannot register until a couple weeks before the semester in order to allow students in the program to register.

Will this program prepare me for a Ph.D. program?
If you are interested in a Ph.D. program we recommend our dual major Ph.D. program in Developmental Science and Gerontology. Students can go directly into the Ph.D. program without getting their master’s degree first. If you are already in the master’s program but interested in the Ph.D. program, we suggest they do a thesis instead of a practicum.

Is the program accredited?
There is no accreditation in the gerontology field. Online degrees and classes offered are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and are approved through the academic departments and colleges at NDSU.

Why go into the gerontology field?
The gerontology master’s program will prepare you for an array of different careers working with older adults including: health care, nursing, social work, counseling, hospice, working in government sectors, long-term care in administration and recreation, adult education, business, hospitality and travel. There will be a tremendous growth in career opportunities within the field in the next few decades. Organizations are especially looking for individuals with advanced degrees.

Is there a required degree to be admitted into the program?
There is not a required undergraduate degree to be admitted. Most of the coursework is focused on social sciences, so some experience as an undergraduate with social science courses is helpful.

What is the application process for the gerontology program?
To be admitted to the program, applicants must meet the Graduate School admission and application requirements that can be found on the Graduate Bulletin.

What do I do after I am admitted to the program?
Students admitted by NDSU into the program will be contacted via email by the NDSU IDEA Campus Coordinator. Students will need work with their advisor to identify the classes they should register for and then notify the GPIDEA coordinator of those classes as soon as possible since class sizes are limited.

Contact Information

NDSU Department of Human Development and Family Science
Phone: (701) 231-7099

NDSU IDEA Coordinator
Phone: (701) 231-7015

An online master's degree in Youth Development prepares students for careers in organizations such as 4-H, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, non-profits, faith based groups, community recreation, juvenile justice facilities, middle and high school programs, extension services, and military youth programs.

Youth Development has a positive orientation, meaning its focus is on promoting the positive development of youth.  Professionals in this field put developmental research and theory into practice in structuring and implementing programs and services for adolescents.

The online Master of Science in Human Development and Family Science: Youth Development option is a collaborative, inter-institutional program offered by Interactive Distance Education Alliance (IDEA), a web-based distance education program. The program requires 36 credits, including a practicum experience. A master's paper or thesis is optional. Students can complete the program in two to three years.

Certificate

We offer online certificates in Youth Development and Youth Program Management and Evaluation. Each certificate option is 13 credits.

Curriculum
Faculty
Admission Requirements
Apply for Admission

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Youth Development master’s program?
A student can earn the Youth Development master’s degree in two years as a full-time student taking nine credits a semester, with no summer classes. Students can take three, six, or nine credits a semester. Students who also take summer classes may be able to finish one semester early.
 
Are students required to come to campus during the program?
No, the program is completely online.

Is a practicum or thesis required for this program?
Students enrolled in the master’s program typically take five credits of practicum. For students interested in further education or research, another option is to do a master’s thesis (6 credits) or a master’s paper (3 credits) plus one additional 3-credit course or practicum. 

Which university will I receive my degree from?
If you apply and are admitted to NDSU, you will receive a degree from NDSU even though some of your courses will be taught by professors from other institutions.

What is the difference between earning a graduate certificate and earning a master’s degree in youth development?
A certificate is a way of showing that you have completed a coherent set of courses within a certain field. Both the Youth Development and the Youth Program Management and Evaluation certificates cover a subset of courses that are in the master’s program. If you are interested in the certificate program and decide to continue on to the master’s program, the courses you take for the certificate program will apply to the master's program.

Can I transfer previous graduate coursework into this program?
You can transfer up to nine credits into the Youth Development master’s program if they are relevant to the program. The syllabus of those courses will need to be provided to the Department of Human Development and Family Science graduate program in order to determine if the coursework is relevant.

I am employed full-time and have a family. How many credits would you recommend I take each semester?
For students with family and employment obligations, we recommend taking four credits (the Foundations course plus one other course) the first semester. Then students are able to see how it works with their schedule and can determine how many courses they are able to take each semester.

Can I take some Youth Development classes without being admitted to the program?
You can be admitted to the graduate school as a non-degree student and take Youth Development classes without being in the program. Class sizes are very limited and students who are in the program are able to register first. The instructor needs to agree to allow non-degree students into their class. Non-degree students cannot register until a couple weeks before the semester in order to allow students in the program to register.

Will this program prepare me for a Ph.D. program?
If students are interested in a Ph.D. program, we recommend our Ph.D. program in Developmental Science. Students can go directly into the Ph.D. program without getting their master’s degree first. If students are already in the master’s program but interested in the Ph.D. program we suggest they do a thesis instead of a practicum.

Is the program accredited? 
There is no accreditation in the Youth Development field. Online degrees and classes are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and are approved through the academic departments and colleges at NDSU.

Why go into the Youth Development field?
There is an increasing demand for employees of youth-serving organizations to obtain graduate degrees, certificates, and/or licensure. A master’s degree in Youth Development will benefit elementary, middle, and high school educators; extension educators; and military youth specialists.

Is there a required degree to be admitted into the program?
There is not a required undergraduate degree to be admitted. Some experience as an undergraduate with social science courses (e.g. psychology, sociology) is helpful.

What is the application process for the Youth Development program?
To be admitted to the program, applicants must meet the Graduate School admission and application requirements.

What do I do after I am admitted to the program?
Students admitted by NDSU into the program will be contacted via email by the NDSU IDEA Coordinator. Students will need work with their advisor to identify the classes they should register for and then will notify Melissa of those classes as soon as possible since class sizes are limited. 

Contact Information

NDSU Department of Human Development and Family Science
Phone: (701) 231-8269
Email: Joel.Hektner@ndsu.edu

NDSU IDEA Coordinator
Phone: (701) 231-7015

The online Leadership in Physical Education and Sport Coaching graduate option prepares physical education teachers, sport coaches, and sport leaders who wish to extend their content, pedagogical, and leadership knowledge. The program emphasizes academic excellence, the pursuit of knowledge, the development of critical and analytical abilities, and the application of theory into practice so students will assume positions of leadership within the profession.

The degree prepares students to be master teachers, head coaches, department heads, and activities directors at the interscholastic level; assistant coaches, lecturers, and assistant or lead directors at the intercollegiate level; and to become actively engaged in leadership roles within professional organizations. This degree is designed for individuals who wish to improve and expand their professional teaching and coaching skills, acquire self-assessment skills, and develop supervision and leadership competencies.

The courses in this program have been specifically designed to inform teachers and coaches about best practices in contemporary teaching, coaching, and leadership. Course assignments are mainly case study, project based, and relevant to practicing professionals so that they can apply knowledge gained to their individual settings or other appropriate contexts. This does not mean that some courses will not have exams. Most courses will use a project-based format where students read and discuss content online and then apply what they have learned in authentic action projects that are shared online with others. Some courses may require projects or field experiences related to observing, assessing, or teaching/coaching in K-12 or university settings.

There is no required course sequence. Each individual student’s program is developed in consultation with an assigned graduate advisor.

Curriculum
Faculty 
Admission Requirements
Apply for Admission

Frequently Asked Questions

How competitive is the admission process for this program?
The online M.S. in HNES: Leadership in Physical Education and Sport is currently accepting applications for the program; however, this program is nearing its capacity for accepting students. If you are unable to be fully admitted to the program you may consider enrolling as a non-degree seeking student.  Non-degree students can take up to 10 credits prior to being accepted into the program.  As long as the classes you choose are part of the required courses they should transfer into the full program. If you are interested in this program consider applying for full admission as soon as possible. 

Does this program prepare me for a career in sports management?
This program is not a sports management master's program; however, elements of sports management are addressed in this program.  This program educates individuals who want to become head coaches, master physical education teachers, high school athletic directors or assistant athletic directors, athletic department head, or collegiate-level assistant coaches. 

Can I use the credits for this program for licensure renewal or pay scale increases?
We encourage you to check with your licensing agency or school district prior to enrolling in these courses to ensure they will be accepted for licensure renewal or pay scale increases. It often depends on your license type and how flexible your school district is. 

Contact Information

School of Education
Phone: (701) 231-8676
Email: Jenny.Linker@ndsu.edu

NDSU Graduate School
Phone: (701) 231-7033
Email: ndsu.grad.school@ndsu.edu

This degree is designed to be completed in three summers or in a combination of summers and the academic year. Students must register for a least six credits per calendar year until all degree requirements are completed. Classes are offered both online and on campus. Course-work can be focused in elementary, choral/vocal, or instrumental music education. No thesis is required; rather, students will complete a four-credit practicum. The practicum will be agreed upon and planned jointly by the student and his/her adviser. Comprehensive written examinations must be passed near the end of or after coursework. The final oral examination (administered by the student’s committee) occurs after the written comprehensive examination.

Curriculum
Apply for Admission

Contact Information

Dr. Charlette Moe
charlette.moe@ndsu.edu
Challey School of Music Graduate Programs

The Master of Natural Resources Management (MNRM) degree program at NDSU is a professional, non-thesis degree program. The MNRM is specifically designed for students holding a Bachelor of Science Degree in Natural Resources Management or a closely related field who are seeking an educational opportunity for advanced coursework culminating in a professional terminal degree. 

This graduate degree program enables students to expand their existing base of knowledge by engaging in an approved curriculum of coursework (32 graduate units) encompassing the interdisciplinary format of Natural Resources Management and a culminating professional oral presentation evaluated by the student's graduate committee. 

This degree program is designed to serve recently graduated individuals seeking an advanced degree comprised of graduate coursework, as well as individuals who have several years of work experience in the field of natural resources and who are seeking to expand their educational base and advance their professional status. The MNRM is considered a terminal degree.

Learn more about the online MNRM degree.

Apply for Admission

Contact Information

Dr. Shawn DeKeyser
Edward.dekeyser@ndsu.edu

The Master of Public Health is a professional degree designed for graduates and employees in health-related fields who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in their field of practice. In addition to completing the core course work, students in the program specialize in Community Health Sciences or Epidemiology. Students in the program can choose to complete the degree at a distance through videoconferencing into the live course in real time. Students may choose to take a combination of distance-based and on-campus courses.

Certificate

We also offer online Public Health Graduate certificates with options in:

• General Public Health
• Infection Prevention
• Maternal and Child Health

Certificates are a valuable tool for career advancement and are designed for individuals who want to gain credentials at the graduate level instead of completing an entire Master’s degree. Credits from the NDSU graduate certificate are designed to roll into the full MPH degree program.

Curriculum
Faculty
Admission Requirements
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*Prospective applicants in F-1 or J-1 VISA status must contact the Office of International Student and Study Abroad Services (701-231-7895) prior to submitting an application for this program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can international students take this program fully online? 
For international students interested in the Master of Public Health degree only one online course in fall and spring counts toward F-1/J-1 status each semester. International students in F-1 or J-1 status are required to enroll in courses offered physically on-campus at NDSU and are not allowed to complete the MPH program as a fully online degree. Additional questions about this should be directed to the Office of International Student & Study Abroad Services or by contacting your assigned international student advisor.

Contact Information

NDSU College of Health and Human Services
Phone: (701) 231-6269

NDSU Graduate School 
Phone: (701) 231-7033
Email: ndsu.grad.school@ndsu.edu

NDSU’s Master of Public Policy (MPP) program provides rigorous training that meets regional, national, and international needs for policy design and program evaluation. NDSU provides the only MPP program in the Dakotas and is one of the most cost-effective options for earning an MPP nationwide. Our faculty have expertise in local, national and international policy.
 
Students may attend classes in-person or attend remotely in real time. The program accommodates both traditional students and those who have already begun their careers.
 
Curriculum
Apply for Admission
 

The online Master of Software Engineering (MSE) degree is designed for professionals seeking to update or upgrade their credentials as well as to gain current skills and knowledge in software engineering. All assignments are completed through distance education. Projects and larger assignments can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Certificate

We also offer a 10-credit online Software Engineering Graduate Certificate. Graduate certificates are valuable tools for career advancement and are designed for individuals who want to gain credentials at the graduate-level prior to completing a full master's program. Credits from the graduate certificate are designed to transfer into a full graduate degree program.

Curriculum
Faculty
Admission Requirements
Apply for Admission

*Prospective applicants in F-1 or J-1 VISA status must contact the Office of International Student and Study Abroad Services (701-231-7895) prior to submitting an application for this program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this program require a GRE exam for admission?
The Master of Software Engineering online program does not require the GRE exam.

Can international students take this program fully online? 
For international students interested in the Master of Software Engineering degree only one online course in fall and spring counts toward F-1/J-1 status each semester. International students in F-1 or J-1 status are required to enroll in courses offered physically on-campus at NDSU and are not allowed to complete the MSE program as a fully online degree. Additional questions about this should be directed to the Office of International Student & Study Abroad Services or by contacting your assigned international student advisor.

Contact Information

NDSU Department of Computer Science
Phone: (701) 231-8562
Email: changhui.yan@ndsu.edu

NDSU Graduate School
Phone: (701) 231-7033
Email: ndsu.grad.school@ndsu.edu

The Master of Science in Sport Management (MSM) is a fully online graduate program consisting of 30 total credit hours. 

The MSM is designed to fully prepare students for a career in the sports industry. As the number of sport management undergraduate programs increases, students may need to further differentiate themselves by earning a master’s degree. A graduate degree gives students the chance to distinguish themselves from other job seekers. Additionally, a master’s degree can help employees stand out in the industry when being considered for promotion and advancement within organizations.

The online degree gives students the flexibility of being able to complete their coursework anywhere and can be tailored to fit the schedule of the student – serving both the traditional student as well as the professional. 

Nine credits of coursework make up the core that all MSM students are required to take. The remaining 21 credits will be filled by elective courses. In addition to electives, students also have the option of completing the 15-credit Intercollegiate Athletic Administration (IAA) graduate certificate.

Sport Management Courses

Apply for Admission

Contact Information
Dr. Joel White
joel.white@ndsu.edu

The Department of Transportation, Logistics, and Finance offers an online master's degree in Supply Chain Management (MSCM) and an online graduate certificate in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). The degree/certificate is awarded through the College of Business in collaboration with the Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute to provide high-quality graduate programs for students. The MSCM and ERP programs take an interdisciplinary approach to transportation and logistics and attracts students with a multitude of backgrounds. These programs target aspiring logisticians, industry professionals, military officers and DOD civilians who want to meet the logistical challenges of the 21st century. A wide range of career opportunities exists in the sectors of the logistics industry, including logistics and supply chain management, operations management, purchasing and demand management, emergency management, consulting, retail, and many more.

Curriculum Focus
The uniqueness of the MSCM and ERP programs are reflected in its curriculum focus, which are a direct derivative of the Army's National Logistics Curriculum and private industry needs. The following focus areas define a framework for expected outcomes and curricula:

• Supply chain optimization and planning
• International logistics systems
• Change management and leadership
• Enterprise resource planning including hands-on SAP training and data analytics
• Remote sensing and adaptive logistics planning
• Transportation analysis and planning for logistics
• Emergency management

Curriculum
Faculty
Admission Requirements
Apply for Admission

Contact Information

Department of Transportation, Logistics, and Finance
Phone: (701) 231-7767
Email: jody.bohn.baldock@ndsu.edu

NDSU Graduate School 
Phone: (701) 231-7033
Email: ndsu.grad.school@ndsu.edu

Both certificates are excellent options for those seeking to learn more about working with youth and the approach of Positive Youth Development. A graduate certificate can complement a master’s degree in a related field such as education, social work, or other human services, or provide working professionals with additional skills needed to advance their career.

What is the difference between earning a graduate certificate and earning a master’s degree in youth development?
A certificate is a way of showing that you have completed a coherent set of courses within a certain field. Both the Youth Development and the Youth Program Management and Evaluation certificates cover a subset of courses that are in the master’s program. If you are interested in the certificate program and decide to continue on to the master’s program, the courses you take for the certificate program will apply to the master's program.

Curriculum
Apply for Admission

Contact Information

NDSU Department of Human Development and Family Science
Phone: (701) 231-8269
Email: Joel.Hektner@ndsu.edu

NDSU IDEA Coordinator
Phone: (701) 231-7015