Academic Colleges
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Design
The MFA in Design is a terminal degree that provides opportunities for students who are interested in design education, research, and proficiency. Designers are innovative problem solvers who process information and user needs to improve communication and environments. The Department of Design at UCO offers coursework in Graphic Design and Interior Design. In the State of Oklahoma, Interior Design professionals need to register if they wish to be designated as Interior Designers. The Oklahoma Board of Architects, Landscape Architects and Interior Designers requires a degree from a program accredited by CIDA (formerly FIDER) for registration. At UCO the BFA in Interior Design is an accredited program.
Music
Music, M.M. - Education Emphasis The Master of Music is a flexible program that allows the student to concentrate in his/her area of specialization in a program that develops teaching and creative skills while providing the student with a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of his/her area than can be obtained on the undergraduate level. The School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Music, M.M. - Performance Emphasis The Master of Music is a flexible program that allows the student to concentrate in his/her area of specialization in a program that develops performing and creative skills while providing the student with a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of his/her area than can be obtained on the undergraduate level. The Master of Music with an emphasis in performance includes two main areas of specialization; applied performance and conducting. Those students with a particular interest in Music Theatre can be accommodated within either the applied or the conducting emphasis.
Jazz Studies
Jazz Studies - Commercial Music Production, M.M. The School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). The program is highly specialized and requires students to develop professional level skills in music production ultimately demonstrated by a completed CD album. Additionally, students will expand performance proficiency, research and creative skill, arranging, jazz history, and career management at a more comprehensive level than can be obtained as an undergraduate. Please check our website at: http://www.uco.jazzlab.com Jazz Studies - Performance, M.M. The School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). The program (instrumental or vocal) is highly specialized and requires students to develop professional level performance abilities in jazz and commercial styles as demonstrated by numerous concerts and a graduate recital. Additionally, students will expand research and creative skill, pedagogy, arranging, jazz history, music technology, and career management at a more comprehensive level than can be obtained as an undergraduate. Please check our website: http://www.uco.jazzlab.com
Business Administration - General
Business Administration, M.B.A. The mission of the MBA Program at the University of Central Oklahoma is to provide a unique learning experience that will give each graduate the managerial and leadership skills to be productive, creative, ethical, and engaged, excelling in everyday decision-making in varied business environments. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) is designed for students who desire broad preparation for managerial and executive positions in business, industry, government, and education. Courses in the innovative, integrated curriculum focus on the knowledge and expertise that today’s managers need to solve everyday problems. The MBA is intended to provide students with a 21st-Century MBA education using integrated learning strategies for teaching integrated organizational functions. The UCO MBA student will learn to combine the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to develop the leadership and management skills required in today’s business world. The College of Business is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) as well as by the Higher Learning Commission.
Business Administration - Accounting
Business Administration - Accounting, M.B.A. The MBA – Accounting Major Program provides a transformative learning experience that will give each graduate the specialized accounting, managerial, and leadership skills to be productive, engaged, and ethically aware professionals, excelling in everyday decision-making in varied business environments. MBA – Accounting Major students will demonstrate: knowledge in overall Business topic areas, the ability to perform research in the field of accounting, technical writing skills for the accounting field, theoretical, statistical and practical accounting knowledge, and an awareness of the ethical issues in the field of accounting. The College of Business is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) as well as by the Higher Learning Commission.
Adult & Higher Education
Adult and Higher Education, M.Ed. This major provides students with preparation to work in teaching positions in higher education institutions, such as community colleges and four-year colleges. Anticipated interest groups for Adult and Higher Education are persons wanting to teach as their major responsibilities and who have approximately 18 credit hours in the subject area and/or licensure they want to teach (e.g., business, sociology, foreign language, etc.). This program is also geared to act as a spring board into similar doctoral programs at terminal degree granting institutions. Adult and Higher Education - Interdisciplinary Studies, M.Ed. This major provides the student with preparation to work in a variety of disciplines that allow a non-specific master’s degree and desire an area of specialization. This major allows students to develop expertise in a subject area (e.g., safety, English, history, etc.). Adult and Higher Education - Student Personnel, M.Ed. This major provides the student with preparation to work in non-teaching positions in higher education institutions, such as community colleges, four-year colleges, and state agencies. Examples of interest groups for Adult and Higher Education - Student Personnel include persons desiring careers such as the following: Adult and Higher Education – Training, M.Ed.
This major provides the student with preparation to work in industry training, and government service oriented environments. These may include public school adult programs, adult basic education, career technology education, corporate training, and non-profit community services programs. The program is also geared to act as a springboard into similar doctoral programs at terminal degree granting institutions.
Anticipated interest groups for Adult Education – Training:
Bilingual Education/TESL
Bilingual Education/TESL, M.Ed. The Masters of Education degree in Bilingual Education/Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) major is designed to prepare teachers to work with the ever increasing number of non- and limited-English-proficient students in Oklahoma’s schools. The program provides already-certified teachers the training to better assist K-12 English language learners who are struggling to survive and succeed academically. Graduates of the UCO bilingual Education/TESL Program are expected to become leaders who can apply their knowledge, skills, and dispositions in the classroom setting, professional settings, and the community. The focus of the program coursework includes foundations of research, second language acquisition theory, cultural influences, historical and philosophical foundations of educational practices related to language minorities, current instructional and assessment practices across the curriculum, and grounding in English language structure and usage. Graduate students not holding Oklahoma teaching certification, but otherwise eligible for admission, will be required to complete alternative prerequisites. Nationally accredited by the Teachers of English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and aligned with the TESOL P-12 Standards for Teacher Preparation, the UCO Bilingual Education/TESL Program objectives are designed to develop the following areas of competency:
Early Childhood Education
Early Childhood Education, M.Ed. The Early Childhood Education program is designed to provide an advanced program of study focusing on the developmentally appropriate care and education of children from birth through age eight within various early childhood and elementary school settings. The student will be given the opportunity to demonstrate a basic knowledge of educational research including: research procedures and methods; sources and formats utilized for presenting education research; critical review of research reports; and the preparation and defense of a research proposal. The Early Childhood Education program emphasizes the whole child and exposes the student to the scientific knowledge bases regarding: 1) development of children, 2) learning theory, and 3) appropriate educational practices as well as the opportunity to develop competence in working with parents of young children. The scientific and theoretical foundation for the program is the study of the Constructivist Theory as it relates to cognitive and affective development and the implications for the care and education of young children. The curriculum is designed to provide an individualized program of study based on the student’s experience and professional goals. Other areas addressed will include: assessment issues and techniques, multicultural aspects of child development, principles of play in child development, principles of guidance, professionalism and advocacy. Note: A master’s degree in Early Childhood Education does not fulfill the requirements for initial certification/licensure by the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Additional coursework will be included in the master’s degree plan of study for those who desire to obtain certification through UCO’s teacher preparation program or those who do not have a background in Early Childhood Education.
Educational Leadership
Educational Leadership, M.Ed. The Master of Education in Educational Leadership offers a degree in school administration PK-12. The degree program is based on requirements for the Elementary and/or Secondary School Principal Standard Certificate as set forth by the Oklahoma State Department of Education. The Educational Leadership degree program prepares school leaders who demonstrate the knowledge and skills required of future administrators. The curriculum is designed in an integrated problem-based mode to promote an understanding of the relationships between the various knowledge and skill areas in education leadership. Clinical internship tasks and field experiences provide the necessary transition from the study of content areas toward a more realistic workplace experience.
Education Guidance & Counseling
Education Guidance and Counseling, M.Ed. The primary mission of the Masters of Education in Guidance and Counseling is to prepare professional counselors who specialize in the school environment. The program prepares both master’s students and post-master’s for the School Counselor Certification examination. This is a PK-12 certification. For information on Preparation for School Counselor Certification, see the Certification Programs section of this catalog. The UCO Guidance and Counseling Program adheres to the national standards of the American Counseling Association and the American School Counselors Association and standards of the Oklahoma State Department of Education. These standards are linked to the criteria set forth by the National Board for Certified Counselors. Meeting these standards will enable students to pursue the National Certified Counselor and the National Certified School Counselor designations. In order to promote professionalism, students are encouraged to obtain these certificates and to actively participate in professional organizations.
Elementary Education
Elementary Education, M.Ed. The Elementary Education program is designed to provide a more advanced program of study for teachers in Elementary School settings. The student will be required to demonstrate a basic knowledge of educational research including: research procedures, and methods; sources and formats utilized for presenting education research; critical review of research reports; and the preparation and defense of a research proposal. The curriculum is designed to provide an individualized program of study based on the student’s experience and professional goals. The student will be required to demonstrate their knowledge in the following areas: curriculum theory and development; theoretical basis of instructional practices; current practices, innovations, and trends in various subjects; current instructional materials; norm-referenced and criterion-referenced evaluation of pupils’ progress including development, use, interpretation, and reporting; social class and cultural background differences among students and their implications; methods of developing and implementing instructional programs for culturally different pupils; historical development of elementary education in America; the impact of society and social change on the educational process; and major philosophical views of education and their relation to educational theory and practice.
Library Media Education
Library Media Education, M.Ed. The Master of Education in Library Media Education offers a Library Information major according to requirements set forth by the Oklahoma State Department of Education for standard certification as a School Library Media Specialist for grades PK-12. Upon completion of this specialized program, students will have developed a theoretical, philosophical and practical knowledge base and prescribed competencies upon which to enter the common school, private school, and other institutional job markets in school librarianship. The major serves a twofold purpose: it enables students to earn an M.Ed. in Library Media Educaton that includes all the components for Oklahoma School Library Media Specialist Certification; and students already holding an M.Ed. must complete 24 hours of specialized course work for Library Media Specialist certification. Completion of these degree requirements alone will not satisfy certification requirements for the Standard Library Specialist Certificate. For additional certification information see: Media Specialist Certification Preparation section of this catalog.
Reading
Reading, M.Ed. The Master of Education in Reading is designed to meet requirements set forth by the Oklahoma State Department of Education for standard certification as a Reading Specialist for grades pre-k through twelve. A graduate curriculum in Reading uses multiple educational settings to prepare students for positions as reading consultants, reading teachers in public and private education, remedial reading teachers, reading clinicians, directors of reading programs, reading supervisors, reading diagnosticians, reading coaches, reading interventionists, and reading coordinators.
Secondary Education
Secondary Education, M.Ed. The Secondary Education major is designed for professional educators who seek a broader cultural and professional learning experience than is possible on the undergraduate level. The curricular program enhances knowledge of content-areas and specific pedagogical techniques and skills which will be required in professional work. Students have the opportunity to study a specific curricular area; to explore the American educational system; to demonstrate their knowledge of educational research procedures and methods, sources and formats, and critical reviews of research reports; and to prepare and defend a research proposal and its results. Other areas of advanced learning include: The development of adolescence and social forces on adolescence and their implications for the classroom; student learning styles and behavior both individually and in classroom settings; and, professional relationships with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and other pertinent individuals. The program is aligned to the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), and program assignments simulate activities which teachers complete while pursuing National Board Certification. In fact, program students may be granted elective credit, under certain conditions, for successful completion of National Board Certification. The program accommodates both traditionally trained and certified teachers with undergraduate education degrees and others holding bachelors degrees and seeking alternative certification. For this latter group, the program offers courses in managing classrooms, designing instruction, meeting students’ needs, and assessing students’ performances.
Special Education
Special Education, Mild-Moderate Disabilities, M.Ed The specific goal of the Special Education Program is to provide specialized training in the areas of mild-moderate disabilities and severe-profound/multiple disabilities. This goal includes the following objectives: The graduate program in mild-moderate disabilities is designed to offer advanced study to those students interested in infants, early childhood, elementary, middle, secondary, and adult education of students with mild/moderate needs. Special Ed., Severe/Profound/Multiple Disabilities, M.Ed. The specific goal of the Special Education Program is to provide specialized training in the areas of mild-moderate disabilities and severe-profound/multiple disabilities. This goal includes the following objectives: The graduate program in severe-profound/multiple disabilities is designed to offer advanced study to those students interested in infants, early childhood, elementary, middle, secondary, and adult education of students with severe-profound/multiple needs. The program provides practicum experiences with children with disabilities in various settings.
Psychology
Psychology - Counseling, M.A. Counseling Psychology prepares graduates to provide services in diverse settings including community mental health centers, youth and family service agencies, marriage and family counseling centers, child guidance clinics, university counseling centers, psychiatric hospitals, drug and alcohol treatment centers, shelters and centers for child abuse and domestic violence, and private practice. Some graduates complete additional training at the doctoral level. Students in the counseling program are typically working towards Licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC) or Behavioral Practitioner (LBP). Each license requires that applicants complete a Master’s degree with at least sixty (60) hours of counseling related coursework. Further information concerning licensure may be obtained from the Oklahoma State Department of Health at www.ok.gov/health/Protective_Health/Professional_Counselor_Licensing_Division Students in the program are expected to: Develop an understanding of the ethical and legal standards of behavior for counselors and consistently function in an ethical, professional manner; Develop and demonstrate skills in creating effective professional relationships that facilitate the counseling process; Develop and demonstrate effectiveness evidence-based treatments in working with diverse models, theories, and techniques that contribute to positive outcomes in counseling including; Develop and demonstrate skills in conducting effective assessment and treatment of children, couples, families, and groups while being sensitive to the special needs and considerations of these client populations. Develop an understanding of the importance of the science of psychology, applied research, and scientific inquiry and their contributions to the counseling process; Develop and demonstrate skills in working with individuals who are culturally diverse. Demonstrate a science-based understanding of the development, diagnosis and treatment of psychopathology. The Counseling major requires a minimum of 60 graduate hours. In addition to the core courses required for all M.A. students, the program also requires that students complete coursework in counseling, psychological assessment, legal and ethical aspects of counseling, psychopathology, and other counseling-related courses. Psychology - Experimental, M.A. The Experimental Psychology major is a flexible, multipurpose degree program. One of its major strengths is in preparing students to pursue the doctoral degree in psychology. The program is also structured to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify students for specialized employment opportunities. The Experimental major requires a minimum of 40 graduate credit hours. In addition to the core courses required for all M.A. students, students exercising the Experimental major must also enroll in PSY 5343 Psychology as Science; and PSY 5383 Multivariate Analysis in Psychology, and additional course work as required by the advisory committee. Students enrolled in this major must submit a thesis in partial fulfillment of their degree requirements. The student’s advisory committee, with the addition of one faculty member from outside the department, will constitute the reading committee for the master’s thesis. The member from outside the department, will, at the request of the student, be appointed by the graduate dean along with confirmation of the total committee as the thesis is begun. The master’s thesis is a research project which has the potential for publication in a psychological journal. For clarification of what qualifies as research in the field of psychology and for matters of concern regarding the design and reporting of research, the student is referred to the publication manual of the American Psychological Association. Psychology - Forensic Psychology, M.A. The Forensic Psychology major prepares students for careers in intelligence analysis and criminal investigation at the local, state, and federal levels of law enforcement. The program emphasizes scientific research in experimental psychology and applications to forensics issues. This is a non-clinical program that trains students in quantitative methods of scientific inquiry. The Forensic Psychology major requires a minimum of 49 graduate credit hours. In addition to the core courses required for all Psychology M.A. students, a student exercising the Forensic Psychology major must also enroll in the Forensic Psychology course work and additional course work as required by the advisory committee. A student enrolled in this major must submit a thesis in partial fulfillment of their degree requirements. The student’s advisory committee, with the addition of one faculty member from outside the department, will constitute the reading committee for the master’s thesis. The member from outside the department will, at the request of the student, be appointed by the graduate dean along with confirmation of the total committee as the thesis is begun. The master’s thesis is a research project which has the potential for publication in a psychological journal. For clarification of what qualifies as research in the field of psychology and for matters of concern regarding the design and reporting of research, the student is referred to the publication manual of the American Psychological Association. Psychology - General Psychology, M.A. The Master of Arts in General Psychology is a 32-hour degree that is designed to meet the needs of a wide variety of students. This degree would be ideal for the student who desires a graduate degree for career advancement in the business world, or for the student who already has a master’s degree but is returning to take additional hours for certification or licensure in the mental health or school services fields. The 32-hour M.A. would also be appropriate for those who wish to obtain more advanced knowledge in psychology but do not necessarily want to become a counselor or complete a thesis. The General Psychology major requires the same core courses as the other options yet has more opportunity for elective coursework and course substitutions. Psychology - School Psychology, M.A. The School Psychology Major at UCO is a NASP accredited program leading to state and national certification as a specialist-level school psychologist. There are two options. The M.A. in School Psychology option leads to a master’s degree and culminates in a post-graduate 6 credit hour [1,200 clock hour] internship and awarding of the College of Education Advanced Studies in School Psychology certificate and eligibility to sit for the national exam leading to credentialing as an NCSP. The Advanced Studies option is available to those currently holding an earned graduate degree in a related field who wish to pursue state and/or national certification in school psychology. Both M.A. in School Psychology and Advanced Studies candidates complete the same 60 credit hour program and the culminating 6 credit hour internship. Advanced Studies candidates may apply to have courses from their previous graduate degree substitute for coursework in the 60 credit hour school psychology program if the course meets the equivalency and recency requirements set by the UCO school psychology board. Courses submitted for equivalency must be accompanied by a catalog description and a syllabus from the institution where the course was taken. The School Psychology Program at the University of Central Oklahoma is designed to prepare school psychologists who work at the specialist level with children, youth, and families to prevent and solve individual, school and family-related problems. At UCO, school psychology is viewed as a specialty within the area of psychology. Our philosophy is that all children and youth have a right to maximize their personal potential, gain social competencies, and accomplish meaningful goals. We believe that prevention is the best intervention; however, when problems arise, we believe that problem solving must occur in the full light of cultural, ethnic, and family diversity with particular attention given the culture of the school in which the problem exists. The program emphasizes utilizing the full range of psychological services in schools and school-related mental health settings. The school psychologist’s role is viewed as one that includes the prevention, assessment, and remediation of child and adolescent learning and behavior problems through direct and indirect services. Training is broad and provided in the context of research and highest ethical standards and adheres to the conceptual framework of the College of Education. (Program objectives are based on the NASP domains National Association of School Psychologists standards for training and practice.) School Psychology is accredited by NASP
Athletic Training
Athletic Training, M.S. The Master of Science in Athletic Training degree is a 45-hour, entry-level athletic training degree which provides graduate students with the knowledge, skills and clinical education necessary to meet the Board of Certification Inc. (BOC), certification exam. The program is designed for students who have completed an undergraduate degree but are seeking entry into the athletic training profession through a graduate education program which meets Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) standards. This program is not intended for students who already have an undergraduate athletic training degree from a CAATE accredited institution or are currently eligible for the BOC Certification Examination. According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, www.nata.org, "Athletic trainers are health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to optimize physical activity and participation of patients and clients." Athletic training encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and intervention of emergency, acute, and/or chronic medical conditions which may lead to impairment, functional limitations, and disabilities. To become a certified athletic trainer, a student must graduate with a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited professional athletic training education program and pass a certification examination. More than 70 percent of certified athletic trainers hold at least a master’s degree. Certified Athletic Trainers must meet ongoing continuing education requirements established by the Board of Certification, Inc., www.bocatc.org. Although not yet a universal requirement, more and more athletic organizations and insurance companies are requiring the presence of Certified Athletic Trainers due to concerns about participant safety and organizational liability. An athletic trainer is not the same as a personal trainer, who is not usually considered a health care professional and whose vocation is exercise management. A personal trainer may or may not be certified. The mission of the Graduate Athletic Training Education Program (GATEP) is to provide transformative educational opportunities for students to achieve intellectual, professional, personal and creative growth within a nationally accredited curriculum in the field of athletic training to service the health care needs of Oklahoma.
Family & Child Studies
Family and Child Studies / Infant/Child Specialist, M.S. Infant Mental Health Endorsement The M.S. in Family and Child Studies / Infant/Child Specialist prepares students for the certification examination in Family Life Education from the National Council on Family Relations. The Certified Child and Parenting Specialist credential is also available to those graduates who successfully complete the required examination and internships. The UCO Child Study Center provides the practical opportunities for these programs with hands-on experience and research. Internship and Practicum requirements are a part of all three programs, as well as a required number of prerequisites. Family and Child Studies / LMFT, M.S. The M.S. in Family and Child Studies / Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist prepares students to apply for the Oklahoma Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certification examination. The UCO Child Study Center provides the practical opportunities for these programs with hands-on experience and research. Internship and Practicum requirements are a part of all three programs, as well as a required number of prerequisites. Family and Child Studies / Family Life Education, M.S. The M.S. in Family and Child Studies / Family Life Educator prepares students to apply for the certified in Family Life Educator credential from the National Council on Family Relations. The Certified Child and Parenting Specialist credential is also available to those graduates who successfully complete the required examination and internships. The UCO these Child Study Center provides the practical opportunities for programs with hands-on experience and research. Internship and Practicum requirements are a part of all three programs, as well as a required number of prerequisites. The FCS - Family Life Educator Program is accredited by the National Council on Family Relations.
Nutrition & Food Management
Nutrition and Food Management, M.S. The Nutrition and Food Management program provides knowledge and skills in human nutrition, principles of food management, food science, and practice in problem solving and decision making. The curriculum encourages critical and creative thought, development of skills in human relations and communications and the value of life-long learning. The academic program is sensitive to changes in our dynamic society; it emphasizes personal and professional growth as well as research. There are diverse opportunities for the graduate in the areas of food service management, education, administration, nutritional care, and health promotion. Applicants must have either an undergraduate degree in the discipline or sufficient course work in the field to provide the background required or may complete additional undergraduate or graduate prerequisites.
Speech/Language Pathology
Speech-Language Pathology, M.S. The Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology is designed to complete the academic and practical preparation of individuals seeking the professional credentials for working with persons who exhibit disordered communication. The program is designed to prepare individuals to serve in a variety of professional settings and with a variety of populations. Completion of the program satisfies requirements for the Oklahoma State Department teaching certificate, the Oklahoma Board of Examiners license, and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. This program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Basic courses in normal and disordered human communication, completed either as part of the undergraduate major or as graduate prerequisites, must precede application for admission to the graduate program. Upon admission to the graduate program, students complete graduate level courses to further their understanding of normal and disordered human communication. Ultimately, students apply this knowledge in accumulating a minimum number of practicum clock hours representing experiences with a variety of disorders, settings and populations. Application Deadline: January 31st In order for an application to be considered, all items must be received by or postmarked no later than January 31. This program begins in the summer semester.
Wellness Management
Wellness Management - Exercise Science, M.S. The Master of Science in Wellness Management with an emphasis in Exercise Science is designed to prepare the student to promote and manage healthy and active lifestyles. It is designed to provide to the corporate, industrial, recreational, educational, and medical settings trained personnel who are capable of conducting adult physical fitness testing and developing personal fitness training programs that involve exercise and physical activity. The student will gain knowledge in the core foundation, exercise prescription for normal and special populations, wellness management, administrative tasks, professional development, and practical experience. Wellness Management - Health Studies, M.S. The Master of Science in Wellness Management program provides the student with a working knowledge to address wellness issues within multiple populations. Students will gain skills in grant writing and interpretation of statistics as well as experience in research and leadership centered on issues of health and wellness. Aspects of legal and ethical principles within wellness programs will be addressed. The student will be able to optimize their learning through elective courses in Adult Education, Family and Child Development, Gerontology, and Substance Abuse Studies. These electives will provide students with an important knowledge base that is helpful in working with diverse populations without creating the appearance of expertise in these areas.
Crime & Intelligence Analysis
Crime and Intelligence Analysis, M.A. This option is designed to offer students a foundation of comparative studies, statistical analysis and technological courses that have an emphasis on information/intelligence evaluation and reporting. The classes present both a theoretical and practical approach to develop general tools of research, writing and analysis. A selection of elective courses allow students to investigate particular areas of interest and the interdisciplinary nature of the electives provide additional skill sets necessary for developing a global perspective.
Criminal Justice Management & Administration
Criminal Justice Management & Administration, M.A. The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Management and Administration degree program is designed to meet Oklahoma’s needs for graduate education in the area of criminal justice management and administration. The curriculum provides those individuals who have a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field, are presently employed in a criminal justice environment, or want to work in the field of criminal justice an opportunity to advance their skills and knowledge to qualify them for specialized job opportunities in the area of criminal justice. The curriculum also encourages the development of the student’s critical, analytical, and creative abilities related to the subject area. This is accomplished by the development of research skills, class work, and out-of-class projects and practicums.
English
English – Composition & Rhetoric, M.A. Students seeking the M.A. in English with a Composition and Rhetoric major pursue a program of studies in the history of rhetoric, composition pedagogy, and rhetorical and composition theory. English – 20th & 21st Century Studies, M.A. - Film Emphasis Students seeking the M.A. in English with a 20th- and 21st-Century Studies major pursue a program of studies focused on twentieth- and twenty-first-century literature, culture, and media. Students may choose to concentrate their studies in literature or film. English – 20th & 21st-Century Studies, M.A. - Lit. Emphasis Students seeking the M.A. in English with a 20th- and 21st-Century Studies major pursue a program of studies that focuses on twentieth- and twenty-first-century literature, culture, and media. Students pursuing the 20th and 21st-Century Studies major may choose to concentrate their studies in the areas of literature or film. English – Creative Writing, M.A. Students seeking the M.A. in English with a creative writing major pursue a program of study that includes both writing workshops and historically-focused literature seminars. Students in this major are required to complete a thesis consisting of an original, sustained, creative work. English – TESL, M.A. Students seeking the M.A. in English with a TESL major pursue an interdisciplinary program of studies in language acquisition including courses in theory, methodology, and language structure. English – Traditional Studies, M.A. Students seeking the M.A. in English with a Traditional Studies major pursue a program of studies in British and American literature focusing on an extensive range of authors, genres, and historical periods.
Gerontology
Gerontology, M.A. The Adult Education – Gerontology major provides the student with a base of information and experiences, in and out of the classroom, for dealing with the many aspects of aging. Many of today’s concerns with a more mature population are explored. The emphasis in the Gerontology major is on the "humanistic" approach, recognizing that aging is a developmental state. Anticipated interest groups for Gerontology major:
History
History, M.A. This option is designed for those who wish to further their knowledge of history and the historian’s craft, prepare for doctoral programs, or pursue other professional goals. History – Museum Studies, M.A. This option is designed for those who wish to pursue a career in museums, archives, or other public history areas. Vital to this pursuit is the expansion of the knowledge of history and the historian’s craft. History – Social Studies Teaching, M.A. This major is designed for those who are professional teachers at the secondary-school level. The program will deepen and broaden the content knowledge in the social studies while also delving into pedagogical and educational theory.
Human Communication
Communication, M.A. The Master of Arts in Human Communication provides an avenue for academic research and professional enhancement by engaging students in advanced and contemporary communication theory. Through consultation with their primary professor, students will develop a specific academic focus appropriate to their interests and goals. Students who wish to pursue a doctoral degree are better prepared by expanding upon the knowledge base obtained in their baccalaureate program, thus enabling them to develop research skills necessary to earn a doctorate. Students who wish to enhance their professional consulting expertise may specialize in areas such as conflict management, relational dynamics, family communication, ministry, interpersonal communication training, intercultural/global competencies, and mediation. Students are required to complete thirty hours of course work and six thesis hours. Twelve of these hours are required Mass Communication courses with the remaining eighteen hours as electives (electives must be approved by the director). Students do have the option of completing up to twelve hours outside the Mass Communication Department. Course work completed outside the department generally should result in a minor concentration in an area that will complement Human Communication studies such as sociology, psychology, education, English, or business.
Political Science
Political Science, M.A. This option is designed to enable students to achieve competence in political science – teaching, research, government-related work, and related activities – through a program of study in which they acquire appropriate analytical skills, a general knowledge of the discipline, and more specific knowledge of selected subfields. Political Science – International Affairs, M.A. This option is designed to enable students to achieve competence in political science – teaching, research, government-related work, and related activities – through a program of study in which they acquire appropriate analytical skills, a general knowledge of the discipline, and more specific knowledge of selected subfields.
Substance Abuse Studies
Substance Abuse Studies, M.A. The Oklahoma state legislature created a license for substance abuse counselors in 2004. Among the innovations contained in this law was the requirement that a licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC) not only have a master’s degree but that the degree shall be in "...alcohol and substance abuse counseling..." or a master’s degree in a behavioral science or counseling related field which is "content-equivalent" to a graduate degree in alcohol and substance abuse counseling. The law also specifies knowledge areas known as the "the twelve core functions" as well as graduate hours (Title 59. Chapter 43B-Licensed Alcohol and Drug). The graduate degree in substance abuse studies will assist students to develop their skills not only in the therapeutic areas, but also in the area of social advocacy for better treatment/facilities. Leadership/management skill development will be stressed in order to keep pace with the field’s quickly evolving standards of best practices and legal/political changes. Moreover, the graduate degree will promote sound research supporting proper advancements in the treatment of the debilitating diseases of substance abuse and dependency. Training students to be competent licensed professionals in their field supports both primary goals of the UCO Mission Statement: 1) to provide excellent education enabling students to achieve their intellectual, professional, personal, and creative potential; and 2) to contribute to the intellectual, cultural, economic and social advancement of the communities and individuals it serves.
Creative Writing
Creative Writing, M.F.A. Candidates for the MFA in Creative Writing pursue a program of study that includes sequential writing workshops addressing different phases of the writing process, as well as courses in literature and in editing and marketing. Candidates for the MFA in Creative Writing are required to complete a thesis consisting of a major original creative work.
Public Administration
Master of Public Administration, M.P.A. This Master of Public Administration program is an applied management and policy degree that prepares students for careers and positions of leadership in local, state, tribal, and federal governments, private firms doing business with governments, and nonprofit organizations. The objectives of this MPA program are to help students develop their abilities to (1) lead and manage in public governance and nonprofit administration in order to improve the quality of life of communities, states, and regions within the context of a globalized environment, (2) make substantive contributions to the public policy process through active and meaningful participation, (3) make effective and timely administrative decisions based on sound critical analysis, (4) articulate and apply ethically sound public service ideals and perspectives informed by credible theory and evidence-based research, and (5) communicate and engage productively with a diverse and changing citizenry and public workforce.
Applied Mathematical Science
Applied Mathematical Science – Computer Science, M.S. This major is designed to prepare students to meet the demands of industry, business, and government for individuals with expertise in the applications of the mathematical sciences. While ensuring sound mathematical training, the degree program concentrates on the development of widely applicable intellectual skills and provides experience with concrete problems. Applied Mathematical Science – Mathematics, M.S. This major is designed to prepare students to meet the demands of industry, business, and government for individuals with expertise in the applications of the mathematical sciences. While ensuring sound mathematical training, the degree program concentrates on the development of widely applicable intellectual skills and provides experience with concrete problems. Applied Mathematical Science – Statistics, M.S. This major is designed to prepare students to meet the demands of industry, business, and government for individuals with expertise in the applications of the mathematical sciences. While ensuring sound mathematical training, the degree program concentrates on the development of widely applicable intellectual skills and provides experience with concrete problems. Applied Mathematical Science – Teaching, M.S. This major is designed to prepare students to meet the demands of industry, business, and government for individuals with expertise in the applications of the mathematical sciences. While ensuring sound mathematical training, the degree program concentrates on the development of widely applicable intellectual skills and provides experience with concrete problems.
Biology
Biology, M.S. as an educator at the secondary or two-year college levels may want to take advantage of this option. The M.S. Degree in Biology is designed to give students a breadth and depth of training in biology beyond that provided by the baccalaureate degree. The educational breadth that our students achieve through the Biology M.S. degree originates in the requirement that students complete upper level/graduate courses in six core areas: Plant Biology, Animal Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, Ecology, and Cell Biology. All students choose one of two paths of study. The Field/Laboratory-Thesis Option and the Literature-Thesis Option both provide further educational depth through research and completion of specific courses selected for the students’ personalized programs of study. The Field/Laboratory-Thesis Option provides graduate students with experience in the design, execution, and reporting of scientific research based upon the collection of original data. Graduate students who plan to enter research professions and/or pursue a doctorate degree should enroll in the Field/Laboratory Thesis Option. The Literature-Thesis option provides graduate students with more graduate coursework than the Field/Laboratory Thesis option. Graduate students who want to reinforce their knowledge of biology for a career
Engineering Physics
Engineering Physics, M.S. This program is designed so that its graduates can enter careers in diverse interdisciplinary fields in science and technology-related industries. The program also provides advanced study in physics and engineering for traditional students who intend to pursue the Ph.D. in Physics or Engineering.
Nursing
Nursing, M.S. The Nursing Master of Science degree will help to provide for the increasing global need of healthcare practitioners with expanded nursing knowledge. The degree directly addresses the University of Central Oklahoma’s mission to contribute to the intellectual, cultural, economic and social advancement of the communities and individuals it serves. The inclusion of 100 clinical hours facilitates the participation of students in transformative educational experiences that directly benefit the Oklahoma City metro area community. The degree integrates each of the Central Six tenets of transformative learning including Health and Wellness, Discipline Knowledge, Leadership, Problem Solving (Research, Scholarly and Creative Activities), Service Learning and Civic Engagement.
Forensic Science
Forensic Science, M.S. The M.S. Forensic Science degree is a research-oriented, thesis-required graduate degree program. Students must complete a minimum of 36 hours of graduate level work, including a core of 15 hours, 6 hours of thesis research and a minimum of 15 hours of electives in their major area.
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