JBU Graduate Program

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I study at JBU?
Three reasons: academic quality, Christian principles, and real-world application. We call our educational approach "Head, Heart, Hand." Our faculty have the academic preparation, professional experience and personal values to guide you in an advanced understanding of your chosen career field. Small class size means you won't be lost in a crowd. You will study theory as well as current principles and practices, integrating Christian foundations and ethics.

Is there an application deadline?
Counseling programs have specific deadlines for acceptance. While our other programs do not have firm deadlines, we suggest that you apply at least six weeks prior to the beginning of your first course to allow ample time for transcript evaluation and recommendation forms.

What is the cost to attend JBU?
John Brown University is fortunate to have graduate programs that are well supported, enabling JBU to keep costs close to state schools and below costs of other private institutions. For the 2008-2009 academic year, tuition cost is $430 per credit hour.

Is there financial assistance available for graduate students?
We recommend that students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for student loans. Scholarships, Fellowships, and Graduate Assistantships are available to eligible graduate students. Students can obtain a scholarship application online. Some companies offer educational benefits to their employees; contact your Human Resources department to determine if your employer offers educational assistance.

How long will it take to get my degree?
The length of time required to receive a graduate degree from John Brown University varies by program.

  • School Counseling can be completed in 2 1/2 to 3 years on a part-time basis.
  • Community Counseling can be completed in 2 years as a full-time student or 3 years as a part-time student.
  • Marriage and Family Therapy can be completed in 2 1/2 years as a full-time student or 3 1/2 years a part-time student.
  • Business Administration can be completed in 2 years which includes classes during the summer.
  • Leadership & Ethics can be completed in 2 years, which includes classes during the summer.
  • Ministry can be completed in 2 1/2 years.

Are the programs accredited?
Yes. John Brown University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The School Counseling program is approved by the Arkansas State Department of Education and accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). The Graduate Business Programs are accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE).

Do I have to take an entrance exam?
Yes. Entrance exams and score requirements vary by program. Please see the Admission Requirements for more information.

Is it possible to balance a career, family and graduate-level studies?
One of the distinctives of the JBU Graduate programs is the flexibility of the course schedules. If you work during the day and manage family responsibilities in the evening, returning for your master's degree can seem overwhelming. It is our experience that students who enroll in one of our graduate programs have done so with the support of family, friends, and employers. This has allowed them to be very successful in the classroom, work world, and at home

Is housing available?
John Brown University offers safe, attractive and comfortable housing for students in Siloam Springs. Housing facilities are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit our list of on-campus housing or contact Student Development at (479) 524-7229 or (479) 524-7252 for additional information. Off-campus housing is also available.

Are classes only offered in Siloam Springs?
No. We offer graduate courses in at the Fort Smith Center and the Rogers Center in addition to courses offered on the main campus in Siloam Springs. Programs vary by location.

Is the program going to prepare me for the pursuit of a doctoral degree?
Graduate programs at JBU will give you the academic preparation to begin study at the doctoral level. Alumni of JBU graduate programs have been accepted to doctoral programs and have done well at that level. Doctoral programs vary in their admissions and academic requirements and often use multiple means to measure a candidate's likelihood of success - entrance exams, references, professional experience, and essays, as well as performance at the graduate level.