Admissions FAQ
Claremont Graduate University currently offers the following programs online: MS in Evaluation & Applied Research. In addition, CGU offers a certificate in Advanced Study in Evaluation.
CGU’s master’s degree programs are designed to be completed in 18 months by working professionals attending full time. Time to completion will vary based on program and number of units taken per term.
Yes. In order to enroll in a CGU online program you must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or a recognized equivalent outside the U.S. If you are currently earning a degree that will be completed prior to attending CGU, you will be required to submit a transcript showing work in progress for evaluation purposes.
Applicants who apply by the priority deadline are among the first reviewed for admission and considered for fellowship funding (CGU scholarships). Registration for classes opens early so we encourage applicants to submit their applications by the priority deadline.
You can learn more about the application process and requirements here. Applicants must have either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS). While either a BA or a BS is a minimum requirement, it is recommended that you speak first with our enrollment team about your academic and professional background to ensure a competitive application as well as to discuss any program-specific admissions requirements.
CGU Online Enrollment Team
Email: onlineadmissions@cgu.edu
Yes. CGU may accept up to four units of transfer credit from another university.
Prospective students can apply to any semester. View upcoming application dates or upcoming start dates.
Program FAQ
Yes. The online programs were designed with working professionals in mind. Live class sessions are scheduled in the evenings or on weekends, and all courses offer asynchronous (self-paced) content as well. Recognizing the value of a CGU master’s degree, some employers offer tuition support for employees engaged in our programs.
Yes. You may expect to complete your degree in as little as 1-1.5 years while taking only two courses per semester. Some students choose to take only one course per semester.
As a general rule, you will want to commit about 15 hours per week for each course. This includes time spent in live class sessions, engagement with asynchronous (self-paced) content, and course homework assignments.
Yes. You will have the opportunity each week to engage with expert faculty and classmates in the online classroom. Just like CGU’s campus-based programs, online class sizes are small and designed to facilitate real-time collaboration and interaction.
All live sessions are recorded and catalogued within the course. However, live sessions are mandatory and necessary for successful completion of your degree. We understand that there may be times when you need to miss class. If you miss a live session, or if you need to review a discussion or lecture from a previous class, the session recording will be available to you.
Assignments are usually submitted through Canvas, our online learning platform.
No. While we hope you will have the opportunity to visit campus, you may complete your degree entirely online.
Yes. Like all CGU graduates, you will be invited to join commencement ceremonies held each May.
No. Your diploma will state only your degree. No distinction is made between a degree earned online and one earned through residential study.
Student Life FAQ
Yes, we encourage you to join student groups on campus if you are local to CGU. As a CGU student, you have the opportunity to start your own student group. Student Life, Diversity & Leadership can assist you in starting your own student organization.
Our Career Development Office is available to assist you in resume review, interview preparation, and personal branding virtually. Our staff is trained to assist all you at any stage in your career search while you are a student and after you graduate.
Of course! We would welcome you to campus any time.
In addition to the shared services offered by The Claremont Colleges, you will have a student success coach assigned to you while a student here at CGU. This coach is your primary contact for support and information as you complete your degree. We ask that you schedule regular check ins with your coach.
Yes, we will assist you with receiving your ID.
Financial Aid FAQ
Yes. Many students mistakenly think they do not qualify for aid when in fact they may qualify. Federal Direct Loans are available regardless of income. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available online at no cost.
No. You can complete FAFSA prior to receiving an offer of admission. However, to receive financial aid funds, you must be admitted and enrolled at CGU.
Students must be enrolled in a minimum of four degree-seeking units to be eligible for federal financial aid.