• FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I apply?

To ensure timely review of applications and enrollment, students are encouraged to apply and submit all required supplemental documents by the following deadlines:

July 15 for fall semester; December 1 for spring semester; and May 1 for summer terms.

How long does it take to complete a program?

Length of completion depends on the particular program and how many credits the student is taking per semester. The Graduate School offers the majority of programs on a part-time basis to working professionals. However, with careful planning full-time status is possible in some programs.

When do classes begin?

The beginning of classes and other important academic dates are listed in the Academic Calendar.

What courses are you offering next semester?

Courses are listed in the Schedule of Classes.

How much is tuition?

Tuition for the 2009-10 Academic Year is $360 per credit. Most courses are 3 credits each. There is a $50 Comprehensive Fee per semester. Some courses have a $50 Lab Fee.

How do I get my own printed Schedule of Classes?

Stop by the Graduate Office, call us at (301) 696-3600 or toll-free at (800) 922-1599, or e-mail us at hoodgrad@hood.edu to have a schedule mailed to you. The most up-to-date schedule is available in the online schedule of classes.

How do I register?

A comprehensive guide can be found on the Graduate School registration Web page.

When is the last day for registration?

Students may register for classes until the first day of the semester. Late registration begins the first day of class. Students may register late for a class, with the instructor's approval, provided that the class has not met more than once. However, students who register late often risk a course being closed. Specific dates are listed in the Academic Calendar.

How do I withdraw from a course?

Notify the Graduate School Office in writing that you wish to withdraw from a course. A withdrawal form can be found on our Web site. The tuition refund policy is outlined in the printed Schedule of Classes, and deadlines are listed in the Academic Calendar. It's the student's reponsibility to know the deadlines for withdrawal.

Can I meet with an adviser before I register for my first class?

Advisers are assigned to new students during their first semester. If a student would like to be advised before registering for their first class, she or he may call the particular department for the degree program of interest and make an appointment to meet with a faculty member.

Where do I get books?

At the Hood College Bookstore, located in Whitaker Campus Center. Special hours, including Saturday and evening hours, are added to the regular schedule at the beginning of each semester. Hours are posted on the Bookstore Web site. Students with special needs are encouraged to contact the Bookstore at (301) 696-3480 or HCBookstore@hood.edu.

Do I need a parking sticker or permit?

Graduate students are encouraged to park on campus in the evenings. There is a one-year fee of $25 for vehicle registration. The vehicle registration forms are available in the Department of Security and Safety.

What about financial aid?

Limited financial aid is available for graduate students. Students may learn more by clicking here, or by contacting the Financial Aid Office at (301) 696-3411. A limited number of workships and assistantships are also available. Students should contact their particular academic department for information about specific availability. Additionally, potential graduate students should always check with their employers to determine if they offer partial or full tuition reimbursement.