Degree Quality and Recognition While you may or may not have heard of the institutions to which you are applying, you should know that the universities that CIS represents all are accredited within their country and the degrees that they offer are recognized worldwide, including the U.S. and Canada , as well as by employers worldwide. In fact, all of the universities that CIS represents have been given approval by the U.S. Department of Education to participate in the Federal Financial Aid program. This is an assurance that these universities meet similar requirements to U.S. universities. |
Graduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certification While there is no true equivalent in the U.S. system, the graduate diploma (sometimes referred to as the post grad dip, graduate certificate or grad cert) is usually an intensive, one-semester to one-year course open to students who already hold a bachelor’s degree. The diploma can be used for some as a “bridge” for those wishing to change career fields or for those who must fulfill prerequisites for a graduate degree. It can also lead to professional certification in some fields. For students looking for a short-term, international experience, with a resulting qualification, these types of degrees can provide an excellent opportunity. |
Master's Degree The master’s degree is similar to that in the U.S. , but can take anywhere from 1 year to 2.5 years to complete. You will find three types of master’s degrees at our partner institutions: masters by course work; masters by course work and research; and, masters by research. Masters by course work is a degree that requires the student to attend classes and complete projects and assignments. Assessment is by written examination and assignments. This is very similar to most U.S. master degrees. Master’s by research programs do not include any course work , but you will be expected to produce a thesis, developed by research of a topic that has been approved by an advisor. The masters by course work and research typically includes one year of course work and a research project that is related to your specific area of interest. |
PhD The Ph.D. is generally a 3-5 year program of self-directed research that culminates in a major dissertation. An applicant will have to have a very sound topic of research and a short thesis is usually required as part of the application process. The PhD abroad is nearly the same as a PhD degree in North America. |
Academic Calendar The academic calendar for European universities is similar to that of the U.S. and Canada. Universities in the Southern Hemisphere, however, are reversed with their first semester beginning in late February and going through July, and their second semester beginning in mid July and running through November. A notable exception is Bond University in Australia , which has an academic schedule coinciding with that of North America . Graduate degrees often offer several entries throughout the year. Look carefully, however, at the admission information for the degree program to which you are applying to verify the semester(s) for which entry is available.
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Related Links
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 CIS - Center for International Studies 25 New South Street # 102, Northampton, MA 01060 Toll-free phone 877 617-9090, Phone: 413 582 0407 Fax: 413 582 0327, Request More Information |
