Comprehensive Guide to Graduate Programs at the University of Dayton

Today, we want to introduce to you a complete list of University of Dayton graduate programs. Education is an essential part of everyone's life and it is also vital to choose the right specialization that you are going to accomplish. Paul Haught, Associate Provost for Graduate Academic Affairs and Professional Education at the University of Dayton, discusses the features and unique opportunities of the institution's graduate programs.

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How the University of Dayton supports graduate students

In an interview with Paul Haught, Associate Provost for Graduate Academic Affairs and Professional Education at the University of Dayton (UD), he shared valuable insights with Legit.ng into how the institution supports its graduate students in their academic and professional development. He mentioned:

• Diverse program offerings and tailored support

The University of Dayton offers a wide array of programmes, including nearly a dozen doctoral programmes, almost 50 master's degrees, and several certificate programs. Support varies depending on the program, ensuring that each student receives the specific assistance they need.

• Office of Learning Resources

All students at UD have access to the Office of Learning Resources, which provides various accommodations, mentoring services, and online support for those who need extra help in their classes.

• International Student Support Services

The office of the International Student Support Services (I.S.S.S.) offers specialised support for international students. This includes assistance with cultural transitions, academic field-specific guidance, community integration, housing opportunities, and connections to various support offices on campus.

• Graduate Academic Affairs Office

Paul's office oversees graduate academic affairs, providing orientation and general support services for all students, with particular programming for international students. This includes a comprehensive orientation process and rich online resources to help students acclimatise to university life.

Research, internships, and experiential learning opportunities

Paul highlights the extensive research, internship, and experiential learning opportunities available to graduate students at the university. He said:

Research and experiential learning are very much part of our identity in our graduate program. And I would say it's the university as a whole. As students learn about UD, these are very much part and parcel of who we are as an institution.

1. STEM programmes and sponsored research

The university's STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs, particularly in engineering and computer science, provide numerous sponsored research opportunities. Students can benefit from research grants that fund various projects, allowing them to gain valuable research experience.

2. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Additionally, the diverse engineering graduate programmes offer Curricular Practical Training (CPT) — a type of off-campus work authorization for F-1 international students who are currently pursuing study programmes in the U.S. and want to gain experience in their fields of study.

It is typically used for internships and co-ops and is available to students during their studies, but not after completing their degree programmes.

3. Strategic regional location

The University of Dayton's location provides significant advantages for experiential learning. With proximity to major metropolitan areas like Cincinnati and Columbus and a substantial urban footprint, students have access to numerous IT manufacturing companies, high-tech industries, and business partners. This regional advantage facilitates connections with national and multinational companies and research firms, enhancing research and internship opportunities.

4. Optional Practical Training (OPT) eligibility

Many of the UD programmes are STEM-designated, which means the U.S. Department of Homeland Security recognises that the university programs are eligible for three years of Optional Practical Training (OPT) post-graduation. This designation includes support for business school programmes in addition to engineering, offering extended opportunities for practical training and employment.

Paul explained that OPT is a work authorization for F-1 status students, both undergraduate and graduate. It allows graduates to work for 12 months on a student visa to gain practical training that complements their education. Students in STEM fields can apply for an additional 24-month extension. This provides up to three years of work experience in the U.S., which is highly valuable for their careers.

5. Graduate assistantships

The University of Dayton also offers graduate assistantships across various degree programs. These assistantships not only provide financial support but also contribute to students' experiential learning portfolios. Students must apply for these positions, which offer cost savings while allowing them to gain practical experience in their fields of study.

Unique features and specialisations in graduate programs at the University of Dayton

Paul also highlighted several unique features and specialisations within the university's graduate programs. He placed emphasis on research, particularly sponsored and grant-supported research, as a cornerstone of the University of Dayton's identity. To bolster these efforts, he said the university is adding a new position this year—a Vice President for Academic Research.

According to him, this role will specifically support graduate students and programs, enhancing the university's research capabilities. Other features Paul mentioned include:

1. University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI)

One of the most distinctive features of UD is the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI). This major research engine has strong national and international connections, including partnerships with the U.S. Air Force and the Department of Defense. UDRI provides substantial research opportunities, particularly in engineering, making it a unique asset for graduate students.

2. Online Master of Law degree (LLM)

The university offers an online Master of Law degree (LLM), designed as a pathway for international students to become eligible to sit for the bar in various U.S. states. This program is particularly beneficial for international students looking to practice law in the United States.

3. STEM-designated business programs

The University of Dayton’s business programs, including the Master of Finance, MBA, and Master of Business Analytics, are STEM-designated. This designation allows graduates from these programs to be eligible for three years of OPT, which is a significant advantage for international students seeking work experience in the U.S.

Students graduating with majors in STEM are eligible to apply for a STEM-OPT extension. This extension allows for up to 24 months of additional experience. If you plan to utilise OPT, be sure to follow the application deadlines. You can speak to employers about employment before your OPT card arrives, but you cannot work for an employer until your OPT period begins.

4. Specialised engineering programmes

The university offers unique engineering specialisations, particularly in materials engineering, aerospace engineering, and electro-optics. These programs are designed to provide students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills in high-demand fields.

Preparing graduate students for success at the University of Dayton

Paul detailed how the university prepares its graduate students for success in their chosen fields or industries. The institution provides extensive career support, leveraging both in-person resources and innovative online tools:

1. Robust career services

The University of Dayton boasts a strong career services office dedicated to supporting students throughout their job search journey. This office offers services such as interview preparation, job search support, resume building, and informational sessions held throughout the year. Importantly, these sessions are tailored to meet the specific needs of international students, ensuring they receive relevant guidance and support.

2. GoinGlobal: A valuable online resource

The university utilises GoinGlobal, an online resource tool equipped with a web crawler that searches for active jobs and internships worldwide. This tool allows students to search for U.S. employers who have previously sponsored H-1B employment visas, providing a historical record of potential companies experienced in hiring international talent. While it doesn’t guarantee sponsorship or current job openings, it offers valuable insights for job seekers.

Paul said GoinGlobal also provides:

• Country guides for students seeking employment abroad.
• City guides for those looking for jobs in major U.S. and Canadian cities.

He said, for those specifically interested in the Dayton region, a localised version called CinciGlobal offers similar resources tailored to the local job market.

3. Internship opportunities and high job placement rates

Paul emphasised the abundance of internship opportunities available to students, particularly through CPT. These internships provide hands-on experience and are a critical pathway for career development while students are still completing their degrees.

The effectiveness of the university’s career preparation efforts is reflected in the job placement rates of its graduates. Paul revealed that surveys carried out by the institution indicate that 60% of University of Dayton graduate students secure new jobs immediately after graduation.

Exciting developments in graduate programs at the University of Dayton

Paul concluded with some upcoming developments and initiatives in the university's graduate programs that prospective students should be aware of. These initiatives aim to enhance the student experience, foster community engagement, and provide additional learning opportunities. They are:

• Enhanced student activities and engagement

The University of Dayton is planning to introduce a range of new student events and activities, including social gatherings and organisational involvement. Paul highlighted that numerous student organisations on campus are available for graduate students to join. Paul emphasised that:

We view the graduate students as very much part of our academic culture and the vitality of our campus. We also have opportunities to engage with the campus or others through online activities as well. So, it's not limited to on-ground experiences.

• Expansion of microcredentials and certifications

The university is actively reviewing and expanding its offerings of microcredentials and certifications. These short-sequence packages of courses are designed to provide students with targeted skills and knowledge, often leading to certificates. This initiative is especially beneficial for students looking to upskill or reskill in their respective fields.

• Continuous improvement of student orientation and support

The University of Dayton is committed to continuously reviewing and improving its orientation experience for graduate students. Paul explained that the university places a strong emphasis on ensuring students feel a sense of belonging and support. He said:

We are very keen on our students' sense of belonging to UD. We want students to feel that this is their home and that they're supported. We have resources dedicated to studying that and improving it year over year.

Full list of Dayton University graduate programs

University of Dayton has several graduate schools and colleges. Among them are:

• College of Arts and Sciences
• School of Business Administration
• School of Education and Health Sciences
• School of Engineering
• School of Law

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

University of Dayton graduate school offers you 53 graduate programs in different specializations. So you have a great variety of options to choose from. We have prepared a full list of Dayton University graduate programs from A to Z for you:

• Accounting
• Adolescence to Young Adult Education
• Aerospace Engineering
• Applied Mathematics
• American & Transnational Law - LL.M.
• Bioengineering
• Biology

Photo: udayton.edu

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• Chemical Engineering
• Chemistry
• Civil Engineering
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• College Student Personnel
• Communication
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science

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• Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy
• Educational Leadership
• Electrical Engineering
• Electro-Optics
• Engineering
• Engineering Management
• Engineering Mechanics
• English
• Finance
• Financial Math

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• Higher Education Administration
• Human Services
• Interdisciplinary Education Studies
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• J.D./M.S. in Educational Administration Joint Degree
• J.D./MBA Joint Degree
• J.D./MPA Joint Degree

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• Leadership for Educational Systems
• Literacy
• Management Science
• Master's in Business Administration
• Materials Engineering
• Mathematics Education
• Mechanical Engineering
• Music Therapy

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• Pastoral Ministry
• Physician Assistant Practice
• Project Management
• Psychology (Clinical)
• Psychology (General)
• Public Administration

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• Renewable and Clean Energy
• School Counseling
• School Psychology
• Teacher as Leader
• Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
• Technology Enhanced Learning
• Theological Studies

Admission requirements for University of Dayton

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If you feel ready to make a University of Dayton graduate school application, then you should study these general admission requirements. Most Dayton University graduate programs will require:

• graduate entrance examination (GRE or GMAT);
• letters of recommendation;
• personal statement/writing sample;
• transcripts from previously attended institutions.

International students must follow some extra admission requirements and immigration purposes. They also need to review the section for international students before applying. All documentation must be sent to this e-mail address goglobalgraduate@udayton.edu.

You can find guidance on how to submit required documents on the application "Checklist & Status" page, which will be displayed after you have submitted the admission application.

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Source: udayton.edu

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