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| Have a question? Here is some important information about the SportsCenter: |
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Do I need an undergraduate degree in Physical Education, Sports Management or other related major to apply to your school?
No. The VCU SportsCenter encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply to our program. We feel that the various experiences and education of our students adds to the learning environment of the SportsCenter.
Do I need to take any pre-requisite courses before entering the SportsCenter program?
No. Although no pre-requisites are necessary, we may suggest certain course work prior to entering the program based upon the individual background of the student.
When applying, what information must I include in order to be considered for admission?
Students MUST submit the following materials together in order to be considered for admission: 1 signed VCU SportsCenter application form, $50 application fee (made payable to VCU in the form of a check – cash is not accepted), completed Residency Form, 3 Letters of Recommendation, Screening Profile, MAT or GRE Test Scores, and Official Transcripts from undergraduate school(s) and post-graduate institutions.
How long do admissions decisions take once my application is complete and submitted?
About 4 to 6 weeks.
If I am a Virginia resident, do I receive a reduced tuition rate?
No. All students are charged tuition and fees at a base rate. Nevertheless, applicants MUST submit a Virginia Residency Form in their applications for demographic purposes.
Are scholarships available? If so, what do I need to do?
There are possible scholarships and positions as graduate assistants available. Please submit a statement regarding your situation and need for scholarship within your application materials. Also, Financial Aid (located at www.vcu.edu/enroll/finaid/) offers students assistance in payment plans, tuition rates, and other financial matters to make our program possible for so many students.
Are there any minimum GPA or test score requirements for applying?
Applications are considered on a “whole package” basis. Consideration is given to GPA and test scores in addition to writing ability and personal recommendations. The standard requirement under University guidelines is minimum GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale on the last 60 hours of study; students may be admitted provisionally if GPA falls between 2.4 and 2.79.
What requirements must I meet to stay in the Sport Leadership Master's degree program?
Students must maintain a “B” average in all courses. Students who earn two grades of “C” or below are sent a warning letter during the semester, and may be terminated from the program if a “C” is received at the end of the semester.
I am a teacher needing hours for certification. May I take some of the courses offered at the SportsCenter?
Yes. You may take up to 6.0 hours of VCU SportsCenter courses for credit. However, if you plan to take any credits beyond these 6, you must apply to the SportsCenter program. Please request an application immediately if you plan to continue after the initial 6 hours.
I have already taken some graduate courses as a non-degree seeking student. May I use these as part of the total credits needed for the SportsCenter Master's degree program?
We may accept up to 6 credits in graduate-level courses taken prior to entering the VCU SportsCenter program as long as they have not been applied to any other degree program. However, all credits must be reviewed and approved by the SportsCenter Executive Director and Academic Director prior to being accepted as part of the degree requirement.
What if I have a special learning need, are there any supportive services available or exceptions to the structured curriculum?
There is an office of Services for Students with Disabilities at VCU. They will work with you to determine appropriate academic adjustments that you may need. They can be reached by calling 804-828-9782 (TDD: 804-828-4608). Students must complete all required coursework for the Masters in Sport Leadership degree, however, modifications to the structure of the curriculum may be made for students with special learning needs.
Do you offer distance-learning (computer, print-based) courses?
Yes. We currently offer 2 courses on-line through our Distance-Learning program. Because not all of our courses are offered on-line each semester, students enrolled in the program are considered part-time.
If I am a Distance Learning Student, what special requirements must I fulfill?
As part of the requirements of distance learning, students enrolled for on-line courses seeking a degree must come to VCU for an intensive one-week course offered in the summer at some point in their graduate career. We like to be able to meet students personally before graduating from our program.
As a Distance Learner, how do I fulfill my internship requirement?
Internship requirements for distance learners may be fulfilled in different ways. Your academic advisor will work with you to determine your needs. Some students have completed final independent projects if they already work in their field of interest. Other distance learners are assigned an actual internship in their locality.
What is the difference between the two tracks of Coaching and Sport Management?
Coaching and Sport Management differ in the electives offered and field work placements. Students in the Coaching track may select from more specialized coaching electives while Sport Management majors may opt for more relevant sport business courses.
How long does it take to get a Master's Degree in your program?
For full-time SportsCenter students, our program ranges from 15 to 18 months. This includes 2 semesters of coursework with a practical experience, and an internship over the summer. Our part-time program varies for each student, but averages around 18 months for coursework plus an internship.
Do I have to begin coursework in the Fall?
No. Students are able to take coursework in the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters. Applicants may apply for admission in any of these semesters to begin their Master's degree program.
Can I work full-time while attending classes?
Our 15-18 month full-time program is very demanding. In addition to 12 hours a week of classes, all students are required to engage in a practical experience and a final internship at the conclusion of course work. We therefore do not recommend that students work full-time.
What are the career opportunities for a graduate of VCU's Sport Leadership program?
VCU SportsCenter students have found career opportunities in a wide variety of companies and organizations. Some of these positions include marketing and promotions directors, athletic coaches (all levels), YMCA program directors, facilities managers and assistants, ticketing directors, and sport team managers. Given the constant growth of the sports industry, the VCU SportsCenter program provides graduates a firm background in all aspects of the field. |
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