Professional Studies, Master of

As traditional fields and disciplines continue to overlap, there is a growing demand for a workforce with knowledge in more than one area of study. As part of Saint Louis University's Master of Professional Studies, you will use applied research skills, evidence-based problem solving, and the integration of theory and practice across two or more disciplines. By choosing a primary area of study paired with a secondary area of focus, you can diversify your education and gain a unique combination of skills to meet today’s workplace demands.

Whether you’re looking to advance into a leadership role in your current organization, or are pursuing a graduate degree before entering the workforce, SLU's Master of Professional Studies can be tailored for you to build the experience you need for your specific career path. 

Curriculum Overview

Unlike traditional graduate programs that focus on a single discipline, SLU's multi-disciplinary Master of Professional Studies program allows you to choose from a range of professionally focused concentrations. You will choose a primary and secondary area of concentration in consultation with your academic coach. 

Examples of the Master of Professional Studies structure include (but are not limited to) concentrations in the following areas: 

• Analytics
• Cybersecurity
• Evidence-Based Decision Making
• Information Systems
• Organizational Development
• Organizational Leadership
• Project Management
• Strategic Intelligence
• Emergency Management (Homeland Security)

The two standard courses include ORLD 5050 Ethical, Evidence-Based Decision Making and AA 5221 Applied Analytics & Methods I. The standard capstone includes a series of three one-credit master’s research project coursework where you will be expected to demonstrate competencies from both your primary and secondary concentration.

Careers

SLU's multi-disciplinary Master of Professional Studies structure prioritizes applied research skills, ethical evidence-based problem solving, and the integration of theory and practice across two or more disciplines. By engaging a multi-disciplinary approach to problem solving, students will develop their capacity to identify, delineate and research key problems, building an empowered learning approach to enhance their own professional careers.

Admission Requirements

• Completed application.
• Official transcript from a degree-granting institution.
• Most successful applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or better.
• At least two years of work experience is recommended (includes full-time and part-time employment, internships, co-ops and similar experiences).
• Three external reference evaluations (not required for certificates).
• Statement of professional goals (approximately 500 words suggested) articulating what attracted you to this program, and how a master's degree in this field will benefit you in your present or future career.
• Resume or curriculum vitae.

Requirements for International Students

All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply to international students along with the following:

• Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Some examples of demonstrated English language proficiency include minimum score requirements for the following standardized tests: \
  • ​Paper-based TOEFL: 550 
  • Internet-based TOEFL: 80 
  • IELTS: 6.5 o PTE: 54

• Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken post-secondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.

Application and Assistantship Deadlines

Students should apply for the fall semester by August 6 and the spring semester by January 7.

Review Process

Applications are reviewed by program directors.

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Scholarships and Financial Aid

For priority consideration for graduate assistantship, apply by Feb. 1. 

For more information, visit the student financial services office online at http://finaid.slu.edu.  

Roadmaps are recommended semester-by-semester plans of study for programs and assume full-time enrollment unless otherwise noted.  

Courses and milestones designated as critical (marked with !) must be completed in the semester listed to ensure a timely graduation. Transfer credit may change the roadmap.

This roadmap should not be used in the place of regular academic advising appointments. All students are encouraged to meet with their advisor/mentor each semester.  Requirements, course availability and sequencing are subject to change.

Apply for Admission

For additional admission questions, please call 314-526-2825 or email sps@slu.edu.