Application and Admissions

The criteria for acceptance into the Organization Development program are:

1. A BA. or B.S. degree from an accredited college or university.
2. Relevant work experience in organizations.
3. An acceptable level of competence in oral and written communication. This will be demonstrated by: (a) A written statement about the student’s background, relevant work experience, and specific goals to be achieved from the program, (b) Individual and group interviews during the admissions process, and (c) A recent example of the applicant’s academic or professional writing.
4. At least a 3.0 grade point average in the most recent sixty units of courses.
5. Applicants should.have a foundational understanding of issues and concepts encountered in organizations, as well as those pertaining to human behavior and experience. Generally, this may mean that applicants with a BA in Psychology may need courses in Business Administration, while those with a degree in Business may need courses in Psychology. Prerequisite course work in one or more of the following may be used to satisfy these requirements:

o Organizational Behavior or Psychology of Organizations
o Personality Theories, Human Development, or Group Process

Applicants are encouraged to consult with the OD Program Coordinator about these requirements before enrolling in prerequisite courses.

The selection and admissions process is aimed at assessing the extent to which there is a good fit between the applicant’s qualifications and goals, and the purpose and resources of the OD Program. The written statements and personal interviews, described in item 3 above, are especially useful in this regard. In addition, two reference letters are requested.

Course Fees and Financial Aid

There is a $55 application fee, and course fees for Fall 2006 are $450 per unit. Completion of the MA requires a total of 36 units. Many students find that their employer is very willing to contribute to, or fully pay for, their tuition in this program, since the competence acquired will be of significant benefit to their organization. The University also provides a range of financial aid options, including low interest loans. Financial aid applications should be filed early to increase chances of securing funding. Contact the Financial Aid office at 707/664-2389 for information and application forms.

Electronic filing can speed up the process significantly. Visit the SSU Financial Aid site for information about how to file a FAFSA form.