Please review the Frequently Asked Questions on our MPS in Security and Terrorism Studies. Feel free to reach out to education-start@umd.edu if you have additional questions.
GENERAL
Q: What is an MPS?
At the successful completion of this program, students earn a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Security and Terrorism Studies. An MPS is an applied program, in comparison to M.A. and M.S. degrees, which are often more research-oriented. The courses in the Security and Terrorism Studies MPS focus on developing professional and practical skills.
Q: Do you need prior professional experience relating to terrorism or security studies to be accepted in the program?
A: No. The students in our program come from a range of backgrounds. We find that the mix of students fosters discussion and provides a variety of perspectives and lived experiences.
Q: How long does it take to complete the program?
A: As a full-time student, the program takes as few as 15 months (or four semesters) to complete.
Q: Will I ever need to come to the University of Maryland Campus?
A: No. The program is entirely online. In fact, instructors often teach from locations all over the country.
Q: Do you have classes at night or on weekends?
A: At this time, all classes are held between 6-8:30 pm Eastern Time on weeknights. No classes are offered on weekends. Additional course times may be added as more course offerings become available.
ADMISSIONS
Q: Do you have both Spring and Fall admission cycles?
A: Yes. We have both Fall and Spring admission cycles.
Q: Is the GRE test mandatory?
A: GREs are not required to apply to this program. We do not consider the GRE scores of applicants.
Q: What is the minimum GPA?
A: The Graduate School requires as a minimum standard an average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in all undergraduate courses taken at a regionally accredited college or university. Adequate performance in prerequisite courses is required. Applicants with international credentials must submit in the original language those academic records that are not written in English. Such credentials must be accompanied by a literal English translation. Both must be submitted at least six months prior to the first day of classes of the semester for which the applicant seeks admission.
Q: Do I have to send official transcripts and degree certificates for graduate admission?
A: The online application requires applicants to upload a scanned copy of their official transcripts/diplomas in English. Official (paper) transcripts can also be sent to:
The Graduate School (Admissions)
2123 Lee Building
7809 Regents Drive
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742
Q: How can I check to see if my application is complete?
A: When you apply using the on-line application system, you will receive an email confirming that your application has been received. The email will also contain a password and directions on how to log back into the system to check and update your application status.
STUDENT STATUS
Q: If I am accepted to the program, would I be considered a full-time student?
A: If MPS students take 9 credits a semester, they will be considered full-time. Please see this Registrar’s Office webpage for more details.
Q: Do I have to complete the program in two years?
A: No. It is up to you to determine your coursework plan that best fits with your goals and other commitments. Students will work with the program coordinator before the start of each semester to develop an academic plan. Students will have up to five (5) years from the time of admittance to complete the program. The coordinator will work with you to accommodate any registration issues that may arise during the time you are enrolled in the program.
Q: Can I attend your program part-time?
A: Our program can be taken part-time. Students taking two or fewer classes per semester will be considered part-time.
Q: I applied to your program in the past. Do you still have the information I sent in for that application?
A: No. In order to be considered for admission you will need to complete a new application, pay the application fee, as well as submit all required materials to the Graduate School/Admissions. Please see this Graduate School webpage for more details.
FINANCES
Q: I live in Maryland. Will I be charged in-state tuition even though the program is online?
A: All students, whether they’re living in Maryland or outside the state, are charged the tuition and fee rates posted on the program’s Tuition & Fees website page.
Q: Is financial aid available for this program?
A: Students seeking the MPS may be eligible for federal financial aid. Please see this Graduate School webpage for more details.
Q: What is the institution code for the University of Maryland?
A: The University of Maryland, College Park institution code is 5814.
Q: Will I be required to buy books for the courses?
A: Yes. The instructors often require the students to buy at least one book. The book list for each course may change from one semester to the next. Students will be informed of the required textbooks prior to the start of the course. Instructors may make other readings available online.
Q: What benefits will I have as a University of Maryland student?
A: As an online graduate student, you have access to UMD resources listed on the Online Learning & Resources website page.
RETURNING STUDENTS
Q: Will the credits earned for the Graduate Certificate in Terrorism Analysis count towards completion of the Security and Terrorism Studies MPS?
A: The transfer coursework from the University of Maryland or from another institution must have been taken within five years of the award of a University of Maryland master's degree for which the student is currently enrolled. For example, if you are to be awarded the degree in the spring of 2023, graduate certificate courses taken in the prior five years may be applied to your MPS starting with fall 2018 forward. Please see this Academic Catalog webpage for more details.
Q: If I am already admitted to the Graduate Certificate program, can I have my application fee waived?
The department does not waive application fees. However, the Graduate School waives the application fee for applicants who have been members of certain organizations and/or participated in certain preparatory programs. For more information and to view the listing of such organizations/preparatory programs, please visit this Graduate School webpage.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Q: Will I be eligible for a visa?
A: No. It is a non-residency program.
Q: Do I have to take the TOEFL?
A: You will be required to submit TOEFL, IELTS or PTE scores if you do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution or from one of the English speaking countries. If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with international credentials, you will still be required to submit English test scores if you do not hold a degree from one of the countries on this list. For more information, please visit the Graduate School webpage on English Language Proficiency Requirements.
