Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much time must I commit to the program each week?
A: We expect you to allocate 15-20 hours per week. This will include both individual learning and group collaboration time. Most of this time can be scheduled at your convenience as long as you access Blackboard and participate in activities and discussions.
Q: What happens during the face-to-face sessions?
A: Each course includes two hours of face-to-face classroom introduction. If unable to attend in person you will be able to video-conference in. Please note the computer software/hardware question below.
Q: How will I learn the knowledge I need to apply to my master’s project?
A: The faculty will help you define specific learning outcomes associated with each project. They will identify appropriate materials (book chapters, articles, CD ROMs, web sites, etc.) associated with each outcome for you to read and exercises for you to complete. If you have difficulty with any of this material, you will be able to email faculty and they will help you overcome your difficulties. When necessary, you can discuss your problems with faculty by telephone.
Q: How many students do you plan to enroll in the next class?
A: We plan to enroll 25 in each cohort. You will stay with the cohort throughout your learning experience.
Q: What are the dates of the residencies?
A: The first residency whether in person or video-conference will be approximately the third week in August, second week in November, and middle of February. The specific dates will be posted annually on the Homeland Security webpage.
Q: What happens if I cannot attend one of the sessions?
A: Participation in each session is an integral part of the master’s program. You should plan to attend all sessions. By missing a session, you will adversely affect the learning experience from getting to know your colleagues and risk delaying or preventing completion of the program. In case of a medical or similar emergency, the faculty may schedule a separate evaluation.
Q: Are Pace’s course credits transferable to other MA programs?
A: The maximum of 6 graduate level credits will be assessed on a case by case basis.
Q: Can I transfer credits from another MA program?
A: The maximum number of transfer credits is six (6). Students must submit transcripts and course description/syllabi at the time of application in order to apply for transfer credit review.
Q: Where will sessions be conducted?
A: The sessions will be conducted at Pace University’s Pleasantville campus and online via our Learning Management System which is known as Blackboard. Prior to the beginning of this program students must take an online tutorial at Blackboard Toolkit.
Q: What is the program tuition?
A: For tuition information click this link.
Q: What financial aid is available to students in the program?
A: Students are eligible for federally assisted student loans and from private sources. Pace University is a recognized Yellow Ribbon participant. More information is available on our Financial Aid site.
Q: Where can I get more information about Pace University?
A: The most convenient source of information is our Web site. You can also call the admissions office 212-346-1531.
Q: What computer experience and capability must I have?
A: We expect students to be proficient with Microsoft Windows and a universal internet browser as well as with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Students must also have access to a webcam, speakers and microphone. Waiting for Martina Blackwood’s response.
Q: What computer hardware and software does the program provide?
A: The University will provide a number of educational software products that will be required to complete the course of study. The ITS page lists some recommendations for your computers.
Q: Do you have a help desk for technical questions?
A: Yes, we will have technical help available for phone and email consultation. Although we do not expect to provide 24x7 coverage, we do expect to provide about 12-hour coverage and maximum 12-hour response times for students. They can be reached at 914-773-3333 or online.
Q: What prerequisites are required for admission?
A: You must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an appropriate institution.
Q: Will you consider GMAT, GRE, LSAT scores if I submit them to the program?
A: We are willing to consider scores, but we do not require them of this Master program applicants. If submitted, they will not be the primary basis for determining admission. However, since the program involves intensive writing we do require that you submit two writing samples with your application.
Q: What computer experience and capability must I have?
A: We expect students to be proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word and PowerPoint. Users should be proficient using Internet browsers and navigating the web. .
Q: What computer hardware and software will I need?
A: Students are required to have a computer with access to Microsoft Office, as well as internet accessibility. If you don't already have MS Office, it is available for download to members of the Pace community on a singe personal device.
The computer should also be capable of supporting a web cam, pc microphone and web conferencing software, such as Skype or Blackboard’s Collaborate Ultra. View the Collaborate Ultra required computer specs online.
Your computer should have sufficient memory and storage to support the program software required. You should also have reliable internet access through modem or other facilities.
Blackboard, a courseware system designed and distributed by Blackboard, Inc will be the major communication interface among students and faculty. You will be able to access Blackboard through a variety of web browsers, but the preferred browser is Mozilla Firefox browser. For additional information on Blackboard, see www.blackboard.com.