Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rabb School of Continuing Studies at Brandeis University?

Through its three divisions — Graduate Professional Studies (GPS), Summer School and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Brandeis (BOLLI) — the Rabb School of Continuing Studies extends the traditional excellence of a Brandeis education to the greater community, with opportunities for professional development through degree programs, personal enrichment and lifelong learning.

What is the Division of Graduate Professional Studies (GPS)?

The Division of Graduate Professional Studies offers master's degrees, graduate certificates and individual graduate-level courses for working professionals on a part-time, year round basis.

Classes are offered in the evenings on the Brandeis campus, online through distance learning, and on-site at corporate locations.

Our creative and flexible approach to graduate education provides individuals the opportunity to advance their education while also balancing personal and career commitments.

What types of courses and programs are offered through GPS?

GPS offers master's degrees, graduate certificates and individual courses in the areas of:

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What is the background and experience of GPS instructors?

Our experienced instructors are practicing professionals who bridge the gap between in-depth academic theory and the dynamic application of knowledge and skills required by today's changing industries and emerging fields. [top]

What type of background and experience do GPS students have?

Our students range from college graduates to working professionals who wish to expand their knowledge and skills or prepare for new careers. Whatever their motivation, they all offer extensive work and life experience and bring valuable perspectives and capabilities to the classroom. [top]

When do classes meet, and how many sessions are offered in a year?

GPS offers three 10-week sessions which take place in the fall, spring and summer terms.

Online classes meet asynchronously for 10 weekly modules.

On campus classes meet one night a week typically from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Certain courses within the bioinformatics program are 13 weeks in length. [top]

Is it possible to take classes at GPS without being formally accepted into a master's degree or graduate certificate program?

Students are allowed to take courses on an open-enrollment basis.

For admission into a graduate certificate program, students must apply by the end of their third course.

For admission into a master's degree program, students must apply by the end of their fourth course. [top]

How do I apply to a graduate certificate program?

In order to be eligible to apply for admission into a graduate certificate program, applicants must have a minimum of a high school diploma or a GED in addition to supporting documentation.

Please refer to our related Apply for a Graduate Certificate page for more details. [top]

How do I apply to a master's degree program?

In order to be eligible to apply for a master's degree program, applicants must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in addition to supporting documentation.

Please refer to our related Apply for a Master's Degree page for more details. [top]

Is advising available?

Yes, GPS staff provides individual advising to new and current students. [top]

Is TOEFL required for admission to a master's degree or graduate certificate program?

In order to be accepted into a master's degree or graduate certificate program, fluency in English as a second language is required. This requirement can be fulfilled in one of the following three ways.

1) Achieve a minimum TOEFL score of:

  • 100 Internet based exam
  • 250 computer based exam
  • 600 paper-based exam

2) Graduate from an English speaking university

3) Work for two or more years in an American corporation. [top]

Does GPS offer student visas to international students?

Please view our policies and procedures regarding international student visas.

If you have any questions, contact us. [top]