FAQs

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 indeed 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 go on and be very successful in the classroom, work world, and at home. Having classes one night a week permits a student the time needed for other areas of life. The JBU Graduate programs allow an individual to succeed by keeping a proper balance in life.

What tests are required for admissions to the Graduate Programs?
Each department in the Graduate Studies division requires the applicants to take one of the graduate entry exams. Below are listed the different divisions and the test that is required:

• Department of Counseling - all degrees
  GRE – combined minimum score of 1000 (Verbal & Quantitative)

• Graduate Business Division
  • MBA –
    GMAT - minimum score based on an index formula of undergraduate GPA, GMAT score, and credit for up to three years of work experience
    
  • Leadership & Ethics –
    GRE – combined minimum score of 1000 (Verbal & Quantitative) or
    MAT – minimum score of 383
    GMAT - minimum score based on an index formula of undergraduate GPA, GMAT score, and credit for up to three years of work experience
    

• Department of Ministry
  GRE – combined minimum score of 1000 (Verbal & Quantitative) or
  MAT – minimum score of 383
  

What are the GRE, MAT, and GMAT?

• The GRE is an exam consisting of verbal, math, and analytical ability questions in a multiple-choice format. Testing is done in Fort Smith (800/ GRE-CALL) and the University of Arkansas (479.575.3948). For more information go to: www.gre.org
• The MAT covers one hundred twenty analogies in the areas of literature, philosophy, history, science, mathematics and the fine arts. It involves the ability to reason out relationships. Testing is done at the University of Arkansas (479.575.3948). For more information see this PDF and visit: www.milleranalogies.com
• The GMAT measures general verbal, mathematical and analytical writing skills that are developed over a long period of time. It does not presuppose any specific knowledge of business or any other specific content area. Testing is done at the University of Arkansas (479.575.3948). For more information go to www.MBA.com
  

Why should I study at JBU?
If you are interested in integrating your Christian faith with your degree; if you value instructors who are not only highly qualified academically, but who also freely introduce a Christian perspective as it relates to their courses; and if you want a learning environment which offers small class size with individual attention – you will find the uniqueness of JBU a tremendous benefit as you study and learn.

Are your programs accredited?
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 Teach Education (NCATE). The Community Counseling programs meets the national standards of the Council of Accreditation for Counseling Related Programs (CACREP). The Graduate Business Programs are accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE).

How long will it take to get my degree?

• 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 years as a full-time student or 3 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.

How much does it cost?
John Brown University is fortunate to have graduate programs, which are well endowed. This enables JBU to keep cost close to state schools and below cost of other private institutions. For the academic year of 2007-2008, the cost is $410 per credit hour. This price per credit hour includes everything except for books. Books can average $100-$150 per course.

What financial assistance is available?
Students are asked to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): www.FAFSA.ed.gov. Scholarships, Fellowships, and Graduate Assistantships are available to eligible graduate students. Students can obtain a scholarship application online at www.jbu.edu/grad/finaid.asp

Is housing available?
JBU offers safe, attractive and comfortable housing for its students. Housing facilities are available on a first come first serve basis. Visit our list of on campus housing or contact Student Development at 479.524.7229 or 479.524.7252 for additional information.

A variety of off campus housing options are also available for off campus students. Visit our list of off campus housing for more information.

Is the program going to prepare me for the pursuit of a doctorate degree?
Doctorate programs are very competitive and a high grade point average from your master’s work is essential. Students who are focused academically and take their studies seriously will have a greater opportunity. Our graduate programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, as well as meeting all the requirements for the State of Arkansas. Also, John Brown University’s strong academic reputation and increased regional recognition will aid in assisting you to further your educational goals.

Will I be licensed upon completion of the Counseling program?
All our counseling degrees are in line with Arkansas requirements for professional licensing and/or obtaining public school credentials. Following your master’s degree in School Counseling, you are prepared to become a licensed counselor. In addition to your degree, in Arkansas you must have taught at least one year. If you are graduating from either the Community Counseling or Marriage and Family Therapy programs, you will be ready to sit for an exam giving temporary licensing which readies you for job opportunities in many counseling areas. Following approximately 3 years of continued supervision, you can then take the exam for permanent licensure.

What can graduates do with an MSLE (Leadership & Ethics) degree?
Graduates with an MSLE degree come from various walks of life. Nurses, business professionals, educators, and others have all completed the MSLE program. The MSLE degree empowers students with the ability to further their current occupation by giving them the necessary tools to advance their potential in leadership skills. Many graduates from the program have been offered promotions and advancements. Others have been empowered to pursue the career they have always desired. The MSLE allows the student to explore their potential giving them the opportunity to challenge themselves to go to the next level in their personal and professional life.