Admissions - Graduate Programs

• Admissions Requirements for all Graduate Programs
• Additional Admissions Requirements for specific programs
  • Dayton School of Business - Master’s Programs
  • School of Christian Studies - Master’s Programs
  • School of Communication - Master’s Programs 
  • School of Education - Master’s Programs 
• Post Master’s Programs (School of Education)
• Transfer Credit in the Graduate Program

Admissions Requirements for all Graduate Programs

The following information details the application process, admissions, and transfer for all graduate programs. Additional requirements for specific programs are listed under each school. Students may not enroll in more than one graduate program at a time.

Application Process and Admissions Requirements

1. Complete online application at apply.asbury.edu, including any required Character & Fitness and Reference Waiver forms.
2. Transcript(s): Submit final and official transcript(s) showing:
   • Conferred Bachelor’s degree(s). Note: Graduate admissions may request additional transcript(s) as necessary to fulfill admissions or state certification requirements.
   • All Master’s coursework or beyond, including any Master’s conferral (independent of intent to transfer).
   • See specific programs for minimum degree and GPA requirements.
   1. Final and Official Transcripts: Final and official transcripts are required from institutions that granted any and all undergraduate or graduate degrees, and any graduate-level program attended even if a degree was not granted. All final and official transcripts must be delivered directly from each college/university at which undergraduate and/or graduate work was completed.
      Submit transcript(s) to:
      • Mail: Asbury University Graduate Admissions, One Macklem Drive, Wilmore, KY 40390
      • Official electronic transcripts: GradAdmissions@asbury.edu. Electronic transcripts are only accepted through secure transcript retrieval services, and only if, when printed, they do not show watermarks.
      • Hand-carried transcripts, even in sealed envelopes, will not be accepted.
   2. Official International Transcripts: International candidates whose transcripts are from non-U.S. institutions must be submitted through World Education Services (WES), and student must request the WES ICAP package with verified transcript and course-by-course evaluation.
3. TOEFL scores/English Language Proficiency: TOEFL scores are required for all applicants whose native language is not English.
   Minimum score required varies by school:
   • Dayton School of Business: 550 minimum on the paper-based test (PBT) or 80 minimum on the Internet-based test (iBT).
   • School of Christian Studies: 550 minimum on the paper-based test (PBT) or 80 minimum on the Internet-based test (iBT).
   • School of Communication Arts: 577 minimum on the paper-based test (PBT) or 90 minimum on the Internet-based test (iBT).
   • School of Education: 550 minimum on the paper-based test (PBT) or 80 minimum on the Internet-based test (iBT).
4. References/Recommendations - at least two recommendations are required. Number and type of references and recommenations vary by Program. See Additional Admissions Requirements for specific details.
5. Community Expectations: Sign and submit the Asbury University Community Expectations Statement on the online application.
6. Additional requirements and materials specific to your program as outlined below.

Students may be provisionally accepted to a program after all documents are submitted, pending further review and full acceptance into a degree program. Provisionally accepted students may register for certain recommended classes while they await full admission.

Additional Admissions Requirements for specific programs

• Dayton School of Business - Master’s Programs
• School of Christian Studies - Master’s Programs
• School of Communication - Master’s Programs 
• School of Education - Master’s Programs
• School of Education - Post Master’s Programs

Dayton School of Business - Master’s Programs

Dayton School of Business (DSB) offers two graduate programs:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science in Accounting (MSAC)

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Sustainable, innovative wealth creation in the economy, as well as viable, effective social institutions in the nonprofit sector, require sophisticated management skills grounded in a robust understanding of ethics and Christian virtues. Asbury University’s online MBA program educates women and men from around the world in a graduate management curriculum that will enable them to integrate their faith and work in a manner that leads to our distinctive focus on management of the triple bottom line - profit, people, and purpose. First, profit is important to sustain and grow the organization. This requires students to learn how to steward financial capital. Second, people are equally important; this principle necessitates that managers be stewards of social capital. Without trust and respectful treatment, employees and suppliers cannot create value for the customers. Third, a business needs a broader purpose. Students need to learn that spiritual capital can transform the community in which the business works. Students who complete our program will be poised to provide effective leadership in management, with integrity and conscience, across a broad range of careers and organizations.

See Admissions Requirements for all DSB Master’s programs and Additional MBA Admissions Requirements.

Master of Science in Accounting (MSAC)

The accounting industry is growing and as such, accounting graduates, especially Asbury University’s Dayton School of Business accounting graduates, are in high demand. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy recognize that the accounting industry is evolving and thus are implementing changes to the Certified Public Accountant exam, beginning January 2024. The Master of Science in Accounting degree provides accounting students with the information needed to enter the accounting workforce, to successfully complete the CPA exam, and to fulfill the 150 credit hours required to become a CPA in the state of Kentucky and potentially in other states.

Program Objectives:

1. Fluency in the accounting language in order to prepare and analyze accounting information for decision-making within a variety of organization types.
2. Effective application of the IRS tax code for individual, partnership, and corporate taxation.
3. Effective application of the generally accepted auditing standards and tools for performing and communicating external and internal auditing.
4. Knowledgeable in the role of information systems and effectively apply them to organizational processes.
5. Discuss and demonstrate how faith intersects with business, accounting, tax, and auditing principles. 

See Admissions Requirements for all DSB Master’s programs and Additional MSAC Admissions Requirements. 

Admissions Requirements for all DSB Master’s programs

1. All requirements and materials listed above in Admissions Requirements for all Graduate Programs.
2. References/Recommendations: Provide at least (2) two recommendations (1 - academic or professional, and 2 -  character) from individuals who are able to objectively assess the quality of the student’s character, capabilities, and accomplishments. References should be non-family members who can measure an applicant’s overall potential as an MBA/MSAC student and future business leader. Online application provides instructions. An email address for each reference will be requested on the application.
3. Resume: Submit a current resume via the application portal or by email to GradAdmissions@asbury.edu.
4. Essay: Complete the Short Essay on the online application.
5. Additional Requirements per program as listed below.

Additional MBA Admissions Requirements

1. Completed application and materials as listed above.
2. Minimum requirements for Transcripts, Degrees, and GPA:
   1. Applicants should possess a four-year undergraduate degree (or its equivalent) with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 point scale. See Final and Official Transcripts for transcript delivery requirements.
   2. Final and Official transcripts required for all undergraduate and graduate coursework from accredited institutions.
   3. Candidates not meeting the grade point average criteria may apply for admission on a conditional status.
3. Peregrine Exam: Students are required to take the Peregrine Inbound Assessment Exam at the time of application. A link for the exam will be provided upon submission of the online application. It is expected that students will meet or exceed a score of 40 on the Peregrine Inbound Assessment Exam.
4. Work Experience: While work experience is preferred, there is no minimum requirement. Work experience and test scores are considered together to gauge the readiness of the student for graduate business success.
5. Transfer Credit limits: A maximum of 9 graduate course credits can be transferred from a college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACSCOC, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation). Transfer credit is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
6. Pre-MBA Foundation Requirements: Generally, it is assumed that students have completed a degree in business administration or accounting (major or minor) or possess a mastery of pre-MBA skills and knowledge. However, many students will come from non-business backgrounds, or need to refresh their basic business knowledge. Certification of pre-MBA foundation courses may be satisfied in one of the following options:
   1. Earn at least a ‘C’ in these pre-requisite courses at Asbury or equivalent:
      1. Economics 100-level higher course, including ECN 272 Introduction to Microeconomics (3)  or ECN 273 Introduction to Macroeconomics (3) . 
      2. Accounting 100-level or higher course, including ACC 201 Financial Accounting (3) . 
      3. Business Statistics 100-level course or higher, including BU 261 Business Analytics I (3) .
         [These course credits will not be counted toward fulfillment of the M.B.A. degree.]
   2. Passing equivalent courses at another college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACSCOC, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation).
   3. Passing college-level proficiency (CLEP) examinations.
   4. Successfully completing Series 1 and 2 of the Institute for Business Management and Leadership Excellence.

Additional MSAC Admissions Requirements

1. Completed application and materials as listed above.
2. Minimum requirements for Transcripts, Degrees, and GPA: 
   1. Applicants should possess a four-year undergraduate degree (or its equivalent) with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 point scale. See Final and Official Transcripts for transcript delivery requirements.
   2. Final and Official transcripts required for all undergraduate and graduate coursework from accredited institutions. 
   3. Candidates not meeting the grade point average criteria may apply for admission on a conditional status. 
3. Transfer Credit limits: A maximum of 9 graduate course credits can be transferred from a college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACSCOC, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation). Transfer credit is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
4. Pre-MSAC Foundation Requirements: Generally, it is assumed that students have completed a program in accounting (major, minor, or undergraduate certificate). 
   1. However, if the student does not have an undergraduate degree in accounting, it is expected that that following Asbury University undergraduate courses were completed: ACC 201 Financial Accounting , ACC 202 Managerial Accounting , ACC 301 Intermediate Accounting I , ACC 302 Intermediate Accounting II , ACC 305 Cost Accounting , ACC 307 Principles of Federal Income Taxation , ACC 361 Information Systems & Business Technology , and ACC 402 Basic Auditing . 
   2. Students may satisfy these foundation requirements by passing equivalent courses at another college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACSCOC, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation).
      [These course credits will not be counted toward fulfillment of the MSAC degree.]

School of Christian Studies - Master’s Programs

The School of Christian Studies (SCS) offers one graduate program:

• Master of Arts in Ministry Innovation

Master of Arts: Ministry Innovation

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Admissions Requirements for all SCS Master’s programs

1. All requirements and materials listed above in Admissions Requirements for all Graduate Programs. 
2. Minimum requirements for Transcripts, Degrees, and GPA:
   1. Bachelor’s degree or an advanced degree from a college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACSCOC, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation), with a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, or a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (based on last 60 hours of undergraduate degree). See Final and Official Transcripts for transcript delivery requirements.
   2. Candidates not meeting the grade point average criteria may apply for admission on a conditional status.
3. References/Recommendations: Two references: (1) an academic or professional reference, and (2) a personal character reference (not a family member). References are submitted during the online application process.
4. Essay: During the application process, you will complete two short essays (350-500 words each).
   1. Explain your personal vision statement for completing the program and outline any leadership experience.
   2. Describe your Christian testimony and overview of your doctrinal positions.
5. Prerequisite Courses: applicants must have completed these Asbury courses or their equivalents:

• OT 100 Understanding the Old Testament  
• NT 100 Understanding the New Testament  
• TH 250 Foundations of Christian Thought  

School of Communication - Master’s Programs

Graduate Programs in Communication

As a student in Asbury University’s graduate communication program, you will learn from our highly experienced, award-winning faculty, including experts in screenwriting, cinematography, producing, directing, production design, instructional design, public relations, international communication, and social media. You will learn how to use the latest technology, but more importantly, you will master the principles of storytelling, all within a context that emphasizes spiritual vitality. 

The School of Communication Arts (SOC) offers five graduate programs:

• Master of Arts degrees
  • Master of Arts in Communication (M.A.C)
  • Master of Arts: Digital Storytelling
  • Master of Arts: Instructional Design, Innovation, & Leadership
• Master of Fine Arts degrees
  • Master of Fine Arts: Film Production
  • Master of Fine Arts: Screenwriting

Master of Arts in Communication

Created for professionals and recent graduates setting their course for careers in public relations, advertising, and corporate or nonprofit communications, the Asbury M.A.C. focuses on the study of communication at an advanced level of theory and practice, emphasizing strategy, planning, and evaluation, as well as organizational rhetoric and global awareness. 

See Admissions Requirements for all SOC Master’s Programs and Additional M.A. & M.A.C. Admissions Requirements. 

Master of Arts: Digital Storytelling

This M.A. program enables students to create engaging stories that leverage the ever-growing resources of digital technology. Effective digital storytelling requires a mastery of social media, writing, and video production, and other aspects of convergent media. The digital storytelling program teaches students how to effectively use these technologies, and how to create and package stories that will captivate your audiences and impact culture. [Note: An agreement exists between Asbury University and Lumina College Ltd. for delivery of this master of arts degree.] 

See Admissions Requirements for all SOC Master’s Programs and Additional M.A. & M.A.C. Admissions Requirements. 

Master of Arts: Instructional Design, Innovation, & Leadership

This M.A. program teaches students how to use cutting-edge technology to grow the skills they need in order to impact and lead others in the much needed and fast growing industry of Instructional Design. Many of the skills students will learn can be adapted to teaching, training, web design, consulting and, of course, educational settings as well as corporate or nonprofit training.

See Admissions Requirements for all SOC Master’s Programs and Additional M.A. & M.A.C. Admissions Requirements. 

Master of Fine Arts: Film & Television Production

The M.F.A. in Film & Television Production at Asbury University equips students with the expertise needed to be a successful professional working in the media industry. M.F.A. students in Film & Television Production will learn the fundamental principles of storytelling and discover how to expertly translate them in practice. Students work closely with top faculty and successful industry professionals to hone their craft.

See Admissions Requirements for all SOC Master’s Programs and Additional M.F.A. Admissions Requirements.

Master of Fine Arts: Screenwriting

Students enrolled in the M.F.A. in Screenwriting program will learn how to become versatile and marketable writers by studying a variety of genres including feature films, television programming and webisodes. They will refine their skills and develop a valuable professional network by studying under leading faculty and expert writers working in the industry.

See Admissions Requirements for all SOC Master’s Programs and Additional M.F.A. Admissions Requirements.

Admissions Requirements for all SOC Master’s Programs (M.A., M.A.C., M.F.A.)

1. All requirements and materials listed above in Admissions Requirements for all Graduate Programs. 
2. References/Recommendations: Two references: (1) current or recent employer, and (2) a personal character reference (not a family member). References are submitted during the online application process.
3. Resume: Submit a current resume via the application portal (include awards, leadership positions, and industry experience).
4. Additional Requirements per program as listed below.

Additional M.A & M.A.C. Admissions Requirements

1. Completed application and materials as listed above.
2. Minimum requirements for Transcripts, Degrees, and GPA:
   1. Bachelor’s degree or an advanced degree from a college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACSCOC, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation), with a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, or a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (based on last 60 hours of undergraduate degree). See Final and Official Transcripts for transcript delivery requirements.
   2. Candidates not meeting the grade point average criteria may apply for admission on a conditional status.
3. Essay: During the application process, you will complete a Personal Vision Essay (maximum 350 words) in which you convey your personal vision (goals and life purpose) for implementing Digital Storytelling, Instructional Design, or Communication (as applicable to the program applying to) in your career. Clearly state in your essay the contributions you expect to make to the field and how this program will help you achieve those goals.
4. Transfer Credit limits: With approval of the Dean of the School of Communication Arts and the Registrar, a student may transfer up to nine semester hours of prior graduate credits toward a Master of Arts or Master of Arts in Communication degree. 
   1. These credits must have been completed at a graduate school accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACSCOC, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation).
   2. Only courses with a grade of B or better which are equivalent to Asbury University courses may be transferred. 
   3. Any graduate level course older than ten years at the time of program admission is ineligible for transfer and use towards any master’s degree.
5. Credit for Prior Learning limits: Students entering the M.A. or M.A.C. programs can satisfy a maximum of three credits for extensive professional media experience through a Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) process. There will be a cost to apply for CPL credit. See Transfer Graduate Courses and Other Credit in Academic Information for Graduate Students .

Additional M.F.A. Admissions Requirements

1. Completed application and materials as listed above.
2. Minimum requirements for Transcripts, Degrees, and GPA:
   1. Bachelor’s degree or an advanced degree from a college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACSCOC, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation), with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (based on last 60 hours of undergraduate degree). See Final and Official Transcripts for transcript delivery requirements.
   2. If GPA is lower than 3.0 (based on last 60 hours of undergraduate degree), a GRE will be required with a minimum score of 940.
   3. Candidates not meeting the minimum GRE criteria may apply for admission on a conditional status.
3. Work Samples & Essay:
   1. The M.F.A. in Screenwriting requires the following:
      1. Essay (500-750 words), submitted during the application process, in which you present yourself as a unique individual with characteristics, values, and experiences that influence who you are as a screenwriter. Please clearly state in your essay your personal vision (goals and life purpose) for pursuing the M.F.A. in Screenwriting. What kinds of scripts do you hope to write? What contributions do you expect to make to the field? How will the M.F.A. program help you achieve these goals? Please write in a manner that is clear, creative, and professional.
      2. Writing Sample of 15-25 Pages of material that aligns with the type of writing that you are pursuing (example: drama, comedy, etc.).
   2. The M.F.A. in Film & Television Production requires the following:
      1. 6-30 minute film/video production or demo reel with supporting documentation (must be submitted via online application portal). Applicant must have played a significant role in the production submitted or the reel must only include your work.
      2. Essay (500-750 words) in which you present yourself as a unique individual with characteristics, values, and experiences that influence who you are as a visual storyteller. Please clearly state in your essay your personal vision (goals and life purpose) for pursuing the M.F.A. in Film and Television Production. What kinds of stories do you hope to tell? What contributions do you expect to make to the field? How will the M.F.A. program help you achieve these goals? Please write in a manner that is clear, creative, and professional.
4. Transfer Credit limits: With approval of the Dean of the School of Communication Arts and the Registrar, a student may transfer up to twelve semester hours of prior graduate credits toward the Master of Fine Arts degree. 
   1. These credits must have been completed at a graduate school accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACSCOC, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation). 
   2. Only courses with a grade of B or better which are equivalent to Asbury University courses may be transferred. 
   3. Any graduate level course older than ten years at the time of program admission is ineligible for transfer and use towards any master’s degree.
   4. *Students who have completed the M.A. in Digital Storytelling at Asbury and wish to pursue an M.F.A. degree may utilize up to fifteen credit hours from their completed M.A. degree at Asbury toward the M.F.A. degree.
5. Credit for Prior Learning limits: Students entering the M.F.A. program can satisfy a maximum of three credits for extensive professional media experience through a Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) process. There will be a cost to apply for CPL credit. See Academic Information for Graduate Students .

School of Education - Master’s Programs

Graduate Education Program Mission Statement

Our mission as the School of Education is to facilitate the preparation of professional educators who embody world-class academic excellence, spiritual integrity, and servant leadership.

Visit our Graduate Education page for more information.

Graduate Education Governance

The Dean of the School of Education and its Administrative Council are responsible for all policies related to the Graduate Education Program including admission, graduation, academic policies, and appeals. The Registrar serves as policy and curricular consultant for institutional graduate issues. The School of Education is responsible for recommending candidates for education licensure.

M.A. or M.A.T. Admissions Requirements

1. All requirements and materials listed above in Admissions Requirements for all Graduate Programs. 
2. Minimum requirements for Transcripts, Degrees, and GPA:
   1. Bachelor’s degree or an advanced degree from a college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACS, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation) with a cumulative grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. This requirement may also be met by cumulative grade point average of 3.00 on last 30 hours of undergraduate coursework or graduate coursework. See Final and Official Transcripts for transcript delivery requirements.
3. References/Recommendations: Three professional recommendations from the following: 1) personal, not family member; 2) employer; 3) professional colleague.
4. Valid Teaching Certificate (only for programs with certificate as a prerequisite).
5. M.A.T. applicants must pass the PRAXIS II content exam in respective disciplines (excluding LBD, ESL, Principal Licensure, and Elementary Education).
6. Final admission to the Graduate Education Program will be made by the School of Education.
7. The M.A. Principal Licensure program requires a faculty interview for admission and 3 years’ teaching experience. 

Candidates meeting the above requirements are admitted for the first hours of graduate work. See requirements below for admission to Degree Status.

Endorsements and proficiency evaluations in several areas are also available for qualified candidates. Contact Graduate Education Office for further information: 859-858-3511 (x2502).

Admission to Degree Status (Gate 5)

Note: M.A. Principal Licensure completes Gate 7. See Principal Licensure/Instructional Supervisor Program for details.

The student must meet all of the following requirements to be admitted into degree status:

1. Successful completion of a minimum of two program courses at Asbury University.
2. A minimum of 3.00 grade point average on all graduate coursework completed.
3. Minimum grade of C or better on all coursework.
4. Successful submission of Entry Professional Portfolio demonstrating critical thinking, communication, creativity, and collaboration as well as demonstrating professional dispositions expected of professional educators.

Certification Examinations

All candidates seeking teacher certification are required to pass the appropriate PRAXIS II Specialty Area Examination(s) in order to be recommended for certification. A passing score on the appropriate Principles of Learning and Teaching Examination(s) is also required for M.A.T. candidates (excluding LBD). Contact the Graduate Education Office for a list of tests required for each program area.

All candidates seeking principal certification are required to pass the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) exam to be recommended for certification. 

EPSB Disclaimer: Teacher certification requirements are subject to change. Before registering for the test(s), please refer to the Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB) website for current requirements or contact the Division of Educator Preparation, Assessment, and Internship at (502) 564-4606. 

A bachelor’s degree is a pre-requisite to all Master of Arts and Master of Arts in Teaching degree programs. Additional pre-requisites may be required for each program. All these programs lead to Kentucky certification.

Post Master’s Programs (School of Education)

• Ed.S. Degree in Principal Licensure/Instructional Supervisor
• Post-Master’s Non-Degree Programs
• School Superintendent State Certification

Principal Licensure/Instructional Supervisor (Ed.S. Degree) Admissions Requirements

This program is a post-Master’s certification, offered as an Ed.S. Degree, and includes 37 hours above the Master’s degree of intensive research and field work. There are no electives.

The graduate educational leadership model is a hybrid format with weekly synchronous sessions. Level I provides initial certification, and an additional 6 credits of coursework are available to achieve Level II certification. Completion of a 1-credit hour research project course, LDG 781, is required for the Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree.

Program Application Requirements and Admission to Principal Licensure and Ed.S. Degree Status

Admission to the Graduate Education Program for Principal Licensure / Instructional Supervisor includes the requirements and protocols outlined below:

Pre-requisites: Master’s Degree; teaching certification; 3 years’ teaching experience

1. All requirements and materials listed above in Admissions Requirements for all Graduate Programs. 
2. References/Recommendations: Professional Recommendations (choose at least 2) from applicant’s: (1) principal, (2) superintendent, designee, or other supervisor OR Master’s program professor, or (3) colleague.
3. Minimum requirements for Transcripts, Degrees, and GPA:
   1. Master’s degree from a college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACS, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation) with a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
   2. See Final and Official Transcripts for transcript delivery requirements.
4. Copy of current teaching license.
5. Letter of application outlining:
   1. skills and understanding related to his/her ability to improve student achievement
   2. evidence of ability to exhibit both leadership and an advanced knowledge of curriculum, instruction, and assessment
   3. personal statement of career goals
   4. resume or CV showing at least three years’ successful teaching experience
6. Character and Fitness form
7. Principal Candidate Interview
8. District/University Screening Committee Review. All above required admission submissions will be reviewed to determine if applicant meets requirements for entry into program.

Students may be provisionally accepted to a program after all documents are submitted, pending further review and full acceptance into a degree program. Provisionally accepted students may register for certain recommended classes while they await full admission.

Admission to Principal Licensure Level I/Ed.S. and M.A. Principal Licensure Level I Degree Status (Gate 7)

The student must meet all of the following requirements to be admitted into degree status and/or certification-only programs.

1. Successful completion of 9 semester hours at Asbury University.
2. A minimum of 3.00 grade point average on all graduate coursework completed.
3. Minimum grade of C or better on all coursework.
4. Successful submission of Program Entry Professional Portfolio.

Post Master’s Non-Degree Programs

Programs for State Administrative Certifications Only*

Additional routes are available for educators to meet state certification requirements in Director of Pupil Personnel , Instructional Supervisor , and School Superintendent . Applicants for these non-degree programs will follow similar admissions requirements as outlined above for Post Master’s Degree programs. Contact Graduate Admissions for more information. Candidates in state certification programs are considered non-degree and are not eligible for Federal financial aid. *Federal financial aid eligibility is available only for degree-seeking (Ed.S.) candidates.

School Superintendent State Certification Program Admissions Requirements

Admission to the Graduate Education Program for the Superintendent Certification Program includes the requirements and protocols outlined below:

Admission to the Superintendent Program Requirements:

1. Complete online application at apply.asbury.edu, including any required Character & Fitness and Reference Waiver forms.
2. Transcript(s): Submit final and official transcript(s) showing:
   • Master’s Degree from a college or university accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACS, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation) with a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
   • Final and official transcripts are required from institutions that granted any and all undergraduate or graduate degrees. In addition, transcripts from all graduate-level programs attended are required even if a degree was not granted.
   • See Final and Official Transcripts for transcript delivery requirements. See International Transcripts for transcripts from non-US institutions. Graduate admissions may request additional transcript(s) as necessary to fulfill admissions or state certification requirements.
3. Current qualifications for KY Teaching Certification
4. Completion of Levels I and II preparation and certification for the position of school principal, or instructional supervisor; OR for a candidate who completed preparation for principal prior to 1988, completion of the assessments for administration; and completion of at least three (3) years of full-time teaching experience, including at least 140 days per year. 
5. Written letter of recommendation from a supervisor/education agency representative attesting to applicant’s suitability for
6. Character and Fitness Form
7. University Screening Committee Interview

All above required admission submissions will be reviewed to determine if applicant meets requirements for entry into program.

Admission to Superintendent Certification (Gate 10)

The student must meet all of the following requirements to be admitted into certification-only program:

1. Successful completion of 6 semester credits at Asbury University.
2. Minimum of 3.00 grade point average on all graduate coursework completed.
3. Minimum grade of C or better on all coursework.
4. Successful submission of Program Entry Professional Superintendent Portfolio.

Exit from the Superintendent Program Requirements:

1. Complete the four-course sequence with a minimum 3.0 GPA and no individual class grade below a C.
2. Complete a minimum of 60 clinical hours with an experienced superintendent.
3. Successful completion of the Gate 11 portfolio.
4. Successful completion of the Gate 11 presentation.
5. At least 2 years administrative experience as a principal, instructional supervisor, guidance counselor, DPP, DoSE, school business administrator, local district coordinator of vocational education, or a coordinator, administrator, or supervisor of district-wide services. Other administrative experience may be substituted for this requirement with the approval of the Educational Professional Standards Board.
6. Meet expectations of School of Education dispositions.

*Federal financial aid eligibility is not available for state certification-only programs.

Transfer of Credit for Graduate programs

With approval of the Dean of the School and the Registrar, a student may transfer up to 9-12 semester hours of prior graduate credits toward a graduate degree. These credits must have been recently completed at a graduate school accredited by WASC, NWCCU, HLC, SACS, MSCHE, or NECHE (previously regional accreditation). Only courses with a grade of B or better which are equivalent to Asbury University courses may be transferred. Total transfer limit varies by program; see Graduate Transfer  for full details.