Online Master of Health Science

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About the Master of Health Science Program and Saint Francis University

• What are the admission requirements for the Master of Health Science program?

  Admission Requirements:

  Applicants to the program must have graduated from an accredited institution, having obtained a bachelor’s degree. A cumulative QPA of 2.75* in the bachelor’s degree program is required for full acceptance into the MHS program. Additional admission requirements include:

  • Completed MHS application (electronic)
  • 1-2-page Statement of Purpose essay
  • Two letters of reference
  • Current resume/curriculum vitae
  • Non-refundable application fee of $55
  • Official undergraduate transcript(s)**
  • A non-duplicated email address (a personal email address unique to each applicant)
  • MHS applicants may be asked to participate in a telephone or Skype interview
  • Access to a computer and reliable internet service
  • Knowledge and understanding of the internet and computer programs to complete the course requirements

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  Prospective Students Residing Outside of Pennsylvania

  Saint Francis University and its online programs must be authorized by certain states prior to offering courses or programs to students residing in those states. Saint Francis University has been approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education to participate in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA).  

  As a SARA-approved institution, Saint Francis University is in compliance with the regulations of each SARA state and is approved to offer online courses and programs to residents of SARA-member states. Prospective students residing outside of Pennsylvania should determine their eligibility for admission to an online program at Saint Francis University by consulting the State Authorization Status List found at https://www.francis.edu/State-Authorization/ or by contacting program enrollment counselor at (814) 472-3012 or email worldwide@francis.edu.   

  International applicants will be considered for admission if they reside in countries where the University has proper authorization. Contact the program admission representatives for additional information.

  State Authorization

• What is the online health science degree experience at Saint Francis University like?

  At Saint Francis University, we want each of our online learners to feel like valued members of the student community and develop a strong connection to our faculty and the school itself. You will work closely with their academic advisors to plan your progression through the curriculum. This is a collaborative effort designed to assist you in achieving your academic, personal and career goals. Our online experience reflects these efforts, as we use every tool at our disposal to deliver learning content that is relevant, engaging and encourages active discussion. 

   

• What learning management system(s) will I be using?

  We utilize the Canvas learning management system for online learning. Canvas includes platforms for active discussion forums, lecture presentations that can be viewed when it suits your schedule, streaming video, group collaboration software, and other tools as they apply to each course. 

• In am an international student, can I pursue a Master of Health Science at SFU?

  Yes! Those applying to the online Master of Health Science (MHS) program from outside the U.S. must provide an independent evaluation of their previous coursework as part of the admissions process. International students can obtain this report through World Education Services (WES) or any other NACES-approved organization. The assessment allows us to determine the ways in which academic work completed in other countries relates to the admissions requirements and curriculum of the MHS Program.

  International students should note that since the program is delivered online and does not have a residency requirement, SFU cannot issue a student visa.

• What are the degree requirements?

  Students will qualify for the MHS degree after completion of the 30-credit program of study with a minimum quality point average (QPA) of 2.8.  In addition, students must maintain a grade of "C" or better in each of their individual courses.  All program requirements must be completed within five years of enrollment.  Note: All documents required for degree conferral must be received by the Registrar's Office within one semester for degrees to be posted at the newest (to degree completion) University graduation date.  Degree conferral will take place at the nearest University graduation date (May, August, December) following completion of all (academic and administrative) program requirements. 

• Does the Master of Health Science Program accept transfer credits?

  Up to 6 advanced-level health science credits may be transferred for credit toward your MHS degree.  Students must submit a written request to the Program Chair including the course to be transferred, the course syllabus, and the transcript verifying completion of the course under consideration.  The courses being considered must have been completed within five years of the transfer request and the student must have earned a grade of "B" or better.