NAU GPR Graduate Programs
FREQUENTLY ASKED APPLICATION QUESTIONS (FAQ)
FAQ for
BS-MS Integrated Program Applications
Also see our General Graduate Application FAQ, which covers questions related to all of our GPR graduate programs.
(A) If a students took a 400 level course as an undergraduate that is coconvened with a 500 level class, can the student then take the 500 level coconvened course and apply it toward a graduate certificate (or even a MS degree)?
- You would not need to retake the 400 level class at the 500 level. You would, however, need to find another class to replace the coconvened 400/500 level class that you already took for your undergraduate degree.
- If the 400 level class was applied toward a bachelors degree or undergraduate certificate it cannot be applied to a graduate certificate or degree. However, if you do not include the class in your application for undergraduate graduation (you need to specifically exclude the course from the undergraduate graduation application), then it could be applied to a graduate certificate or degree. (This does not apply if you are in the B.S.-M.S. Integrated program, which allows for two undergraduate courses to double-dip in both the undergraduate and graduate degrees.)
- If you want to apply the 400 level class to a graduate certificate, it would be best (though not required) to take the 500 level version of the class instead of the 400 level. 500 level classes are open to senior at NAU. Remember to exclude the class from your undergraduate degree application form.
(B) Does the 6 unit course reduction/substitution for BS-MS students apply to both the thesis option and the practicum option?
- Yes, it applies to both the Thesis Practicum. However, please be aware Practicum students are required to take more regular classes than Thesis students, who can take more independent study-type classes.
- Also, we strongly encourage BS-MS students to take the Practicum route to ensure that they finish their degree in a timely manner. Writing a thesis can potentially extend your time in school significantly. If you really want to write a thesis, you must get approval to do so from your masters degree advisor.
(C) I cannot take 681 in the Fall because it conflicts with a class that I need to complete my undergraduate degree. What should I do?
- Completing your undergraduate degree take top priority. If you absolutely have no other option, we will allow you to delay GSP 681 until the following year.
(D) I am a graduating senior and will finish my degree before I start the MS coursework. Can I still apply for the BS-MS Integrated Program?
- Yes, you can still apply for this special program and you will receive its benefits.
- Note that you will not need to submit a program of study document as part of your application, since you will not have any time period where your BS and MS coursework will actually overlap.
(E) When can I register for GSP 681/687?
- As an undergraduate, you will not be able to register for these classes until after you have been fully admitted to the MS degree program. The NAU Graduate College has a special category that they are put into in their system to allow you to register for them. The classes will not apply toward your undergraduate degree.
(F) Is the admission process the same for the BS-MS Integrated Degree program as for the typical MS Applied Geospatial Sciences degree?
- Yes. There are some slight differences (as noted in the BS-MS degree program description page). However, you still need to apply for the MS Applied Geospatial Sciences degree on the NAU Graduate College webpage.
(G) Where do I find and send the department application forms and letters?
The application form is mostly done online through the NAU Graduate College.
Non-NAU Transcripts must be sent to the NAU Graduate College (information is on their online application form).
Reference Letters, on the other hand, should be mailed, faxed or emailed to the GPR Department at:
Graduate Programs Coordinator
Department of Geography, Planning and Recreation
Northern Arizona University, Box 15016
Flagstaff, Arizona 86011-5016, USA
Fax: 928-523-2275
Email: Dr. Alan A. Lew <Alan . Lew (at) NAU . EDU>
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Other Notes
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for Graduate Students