usm phd graduation requirement

Nursing Leadership PhD

The first fully-online nursing phd, program-at-a-glance (graduate).

Credit Hours:

48-60 Hours

Cost per Credit Hour:

Calculate Your Tuition

Completion Time:

1-3 years   *pending hours enrolled

University Accreditation:

Special Requirements:

No additional requirements

Learn more about this program:

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The online Nursing Leadership PhD at The University of Southern Mississippi is a groundbreaking new program designed to bring nurses into a leadership role. Every aspect of our online nursing PhD, from the coursework to the virtual residency and dissertation, is fully online. Y ou never have to come to campus for anything; it all can be completed online from the comfort of home.

This first-of-its-kind, fully-online Nursing PhD allows you the freedom to gain valuable practice experience without interrupting your schedule. The program and classes were carefully selected to prepare today’s busy nurses for research, academic careers, and leadership roles in universities and health organizations.

Our Nursing PhD will allow you to participate in the health care field while impacting the development of up-and-coming nurses. Allow The University of Southern Mississippi to guide you from BSN to PhD in only 60 credit hours. This is your chance to make a wider impact without interrupting your position in the health care field by getting your fully online Nursing PhD from The University of Southern Mississippi.

Already have your masters degree? You can earn your nursing leadership PhD in as few as 48 credit hours. Looking for more? Our enrollment coaches are here to help. Click here for more info! This is your life, plus college!

A number of scholarship opportunities are available for online students! Our Online Student Scholarship gives first time, fully online students an opportunity for $500 towards their first semester. To get started with our Online Student Scholarship, or to view our list of available scholarships for which you may qualify, visit our  Student Scholarship page  now!

The Graduate School is now offering standardized test waivers to applicants of this program. There is currently no GRE requirement for this degree!

Nurse Faculty Loan Program

Tuition can be expensive, and at Southern Miss, we want to help. In an effort to meet the demand for qualified nursing faculty, The University of Southern Mississippi is giving the opportunity to participate in the Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) to both full-time and part-time students working toward the nursing leadership PhD The NFLP will eliminate up to 85% of student loans for students who plan to teach at any accredited school of nursing in the country after graduation.

What can you do with a Nursing Ph.D.?

A Nursing Ph.D. prepares you for leadership, research, and advanced clinical roles, allowing you to contribute significantly to the advancement of nursing science and the improvement of healthcare in your community.

We are here to help! Our enrollment coaches are standing by to help you take the next step.

We’ll call you soon! In the meantime, learn more about us from our blog or start your application.

Academic Progression

A sequence of courses, examinations, and a dissertation mark the students’ progression in the Ph.D. program.

• Selection of a Doctoral Program Committee.
• A comprehensive examination administered after all major coursework has been completed.
• Selection of a dissertation committee which will oversee the student’s work toward the degree.
• A final oral examination (dissertation defense) which covers the dissertation research and related fields administered at the completion of the dissertation – students should consult the Human Subjects Committee (IRB).
• Fulfillment of the residency requirement, which may be met by continuous enrollment of 6 semester hours for each of 4 consecutive semesters, or 9 semester hours for each of 3 consecutive semesters, or 12 semester hours for each of 2 consecutive semesters.
• Fulfillment of Research Tool(s) requirements.
• A 3.0 GPA is required for graduation.

Continuous Enrollment Requirement: Students must meet the requirement specified in the front section of Admission Requirements and Procedures page of the Bulletin.

Research and Scholarly Integrity Education

All graduate students must complete the CITI training modules required by the Graduate School and their departments the first semester they are enrolled in graduate school. The Department will require subsequent CITI training in other areas such as Human Subjects at a time closer to their dissertation. The RSIE policy and training information are found on the Graduate School web page –www.usm.edu/graduate-school. Contact the Dean of the Graduate School if you have any questions regarding the policy of training information. Further, all faculty supervising student research, including regular or associate graduate status faculty must complete the CITI training module required by the Graduate School and their department.

A total of 48 semester hours are required for graduation, including 12 dissertation hours.

Core I - 36 hours

Requirements for BSN to Ph.D. and Post-Master’s tracks

Core II (12 hours)

Additional Southern Miss requirements for BSN to Ph.D. track.

• NUR 827 – Structure and Governance in Higher Education 3 hrs.
• Support Courses (9 hrs.)

Dissertation

Required for BSN to Ph.D. and Post-Master’s tracks. A total of 12 semester online hours is required for dissertation research (NUR 898).

Research Tools Requirements

Required for BSN to Ph.D. and Post-Master’s tracks

The following courses meet the research tools requirements for the School of Leadership and Advanced  Nursing  Practice:

These courses will be taken in a prescribed order not reflected here. Courses will also be taken during the summer semester.

• NUR 818 – Quantitative Research Design 3 hrs.
• NUR 821 – Qualitative Research Design 3 hrs.
• NUR 823 – Measurement in Nursing Science 3 hrs.
• Advanced Statistics 3 hrs.

Additional Note

Please note that the above information is meant to be a guide and is not official. For further information regarding courses for this degree, see the University Bulletin . Please be aware that not all course choices listed in the University Bulletin are available online. However, sufficient online options are available to complete this degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

To find pricing information,   visit our pricing page . For financial aid information,  view our financial aid page . For detailed tuition information,  visit our business services page .

The University of Southern Mississippi provides a Senior Citizen Tuition Scholarship Program for Mississippi residents age 62 or older. Legal residents of the State of Mississippi age 62 or older may enroll tuition-free in a maximum of six (6) semester hours for the fall or spring term. Courses on all campuses (Online, Hattiesburg, and Gulf Coast) are available to senior citizens on a space available, first come first serve basis.  This scholarship program applies to fall and spring courses only.

To inquire about the availability of this scholarship, contact   Precia Pedersen at [email protected] or the  registrar’s office . 

Yes! To view all the funding resources available to graduate students, please visit the  Graduate Admissions Funding Resources  page.

Yes. The online Nursing Leadership PhD is the first doctoral degree that can be completed  fully online.

No, online students pay resident tuition. For information about pricing, click here .

If yes, visit  online.usm.edu/military  for more information on how Southern Miss can serve you and your needs. We will help you with funding and scholarship information, admissions, and course enrollment.

The prospective student must complete the Graduate School admission application online and pay the application fee at  http://apps.usm.edu/graduate-school/grad-school-apps/ .

The requirement to be present during graduation has been waived for the online program. To obtain your degree, contact the department at  [email protected] . There are no penalty fees, but students will have to pay shipping charges for diploma and hood.

Admission Requirements

The purpose of the online Doctor of Philosophy degree in  Nursing  is to prepare scholars, with expertise in selected, substantive areas, who will contribute to the science and practice of  nursing  through systematic inquiry and theory development. Graduates will be prepared to meet state, regional, and national needs for doctorally prepared faculty in schools of  nursing  and other leadership positions in health-related organizations.

The Ph.D. program offers two tracks both 100% online: Post-Masters and BSN to Ph.D. The Post-Masters track requires 48 hours credits during a minimum of 24-30 months of full-time study. The BSN to Ph.D. track requires 60 hours credit during a minimum of 36-42 months of full-time study. Both full-time and part-time is available.

Admission to the online Ph.D. program depends upon sufficient enrollment, university resources, and qualifications of applicants. In addition to the criteria mentioned in  Admission Requirements and Procedures , a select number of students will be admitted to the program based on the following criteria as required by the School of Leadership and Advanced Nursing Practice:

• Graduate from a baccalaureate or master’s program accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA for the most recent nursing degree.
• A current unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license.
• Curriculum vitae or professional resumé.
• Submission of three (3) letters of reference from individuals (doctoral level nursing individuals preferred ) familiar with the applicant’s academic/professional background and experience in nursing practice, specifying in detail the applicant’s capability for doctoral study.
• Cover letter of introduction and a personal statement of research interests submitted with the application.
• Supplemental Nursing Application .
• An interview (online or telephone).
• Proof of recent health examination to include (a) proof of immunization against the Hepatitis B virus, (b) current tuberculosis (TB) skin test or quantiFERON G test, (c) current Tdap immunization, (d) Evidence of immunity to varicella, and (e) current MMR immunization.
• Submit proof of a current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certificate.
• Completion of a criminal background check and drug screen.

Exceptions to the above criteria must be approved by the School Director, the Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions, and the Dean of the Graduate School.

• A final online oral examination (dissertation defense) which covers the dissertation research and related fields administered at the completion of the dissertation – students should consult the Human Subjects Committee (IRB).
• Fulfillment of the virtual residency requirement, which may be met by continuous online enrollment of 1) 6 semester hours for each of 4 consecutive semesters, or 2) 9 semester hours for each of 3 consecutive semesters, or 3) 12 semester hours for each of 2 consecutive semesters.

The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools of Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). That means you can expect a program with the highest standards and quality.

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Research Mode Programme

• Coursework and Mixed Mode Programme
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Institute of Postgraduate Studies  |  Universiti Sains Malaysia

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• Candidature Matters

A foreign student must ensure that a student’s pass has been approved by the Immigration Department of Malaysia before entering Malaysia. For issues pertaining to immigration matters, visas, student’s pass, please contact the Officer-in-Charge at the International Office, USM.

Registration of a research mode student is based on the semester system and the date will be determined when the student registers. The period for Semester I is from the month of September-February while that of Semester II is from the month of March-August.

The registration date will take effect based on the following:

• If a student registers on or before the 15th of the month, the effective date is the 1st of that month. If a student registers after the 15th of the month, then the effective date is the 1st of the following month.

A student who is registered for a Masters or PhD degree must fulfill the duration of candidature as follows:

• Minimum - 4 semesters
• Maximum - 10 semesters
• Minimum - 6 semesters
• Maximum - 15 semesters
• Minimum - 2 semesters
• Maximum - 6 semesters
• Subject to the programme structure

It is the responsibility of a student to renew his/her registration every semester and make payment of tuition fees within the renewal registration period.

Renewal registration process is complete upon the completion of the progress report and tuition fees payment. For the students who received sponsorship, they MUST submit the copy/proof of sponsor letter to the Bursary Department according to the campus they registered. Failure to complete the renewal of registration process will result in the termination of the candidature.

A student is required to renew his/her registration and pay fees until such time that he/she has submitted the complete draft thesis for examination.

Renewal of registration can be done online through CampusOnline portal ( https://campusonline.usm.my ). 

MALAYSIAN CULTURE AND MALAY LANGUAGE (LKM 111)

Compulsory for all international students and to be passed prior to graduation. The minimum required passing grade for this course is C. Student can register for this course online through Online Registration system during the stipulated duration for course registration (usually two months before semester begin until 2nd week of the semester).

Exemption can be given to students who have taken and pass the equivalent course. Application for exemption must be submitted for approval to the Dean, School of Languages, Literacies and Translation.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY (RM) FOR RESEARCH MODE STUDENTS

This course is a pre-requisite course for graduation and compulsory to all research mode students starting from Semester II, Academic Session 2020/2021 intake and onward. Research mode students must Pass for this course as it is one of the graduation requirement.

Student can register for this course online through Online Registration system during the stipulated duration for course registration (usually two months before semester begin until 2nd week of the semester).

The course must be taken by students in the first semester of registration. Students who registered after the 2nd week of the semester will have to register for this course in the following semester.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding this course can be referred on the following link here .

PRE-REQUISITE COURSE(S) – other than LKM111 and RM course

Registration of all pre-requisite courses (if applicable) must be done latest by the second week of the semester. Student can register for this course online through Online Registration system during the stipulated duration for course registration (usually two months before semester begin until 2nd week of the semester).

A student can apply for conversion of his/her status from full-time to part-time or vice-versa. Application for conversion must be made using IPS/HEP – 03 . Approval must be obtained from the respective Dean/Director of the School/Centre/Institute. The conversion of status is permitted twice only during the entire period of candidature.

The conversion of the level of candidature from Masters degree to a PhD must be done WITHIN a period not exceeding 12 months for full-time students and 24 months for part-time students, starting from the date of registration as a student.

A Masters student who is applying for conversion of his/her candidature to that of a PhD must submit a new research proposal endorsed by the main supervisor. This application must be done in writing to the Dean of IPS via the Dean of the School/Centre/Institute. The recommendation for conversion of candidature as above is subject to approval of the University Board of Graduate Studies, USM.

An application for extension must be made two (2) months prior to the date before the expiration of the candidature.

This application must be made officially to the Dean/Director of the respective School/Centre/Institute using form  IPS/HEP – 03 .

The duration for the extension applied should be stated. IPS will process and update accordingly upon receiving the official endorsement from School/Centre/Institute. The MAXIMUM period of extension allowed is two (2) semesters only.

A student who wishes to change his/her mode of study must submit a NEW application form to IPS. A processing fee will be charged for this.

Withdrawal from programme can be made by sending a withdrawal letter to Dean/Director of School/Centre/Institute.

IPS will process and update accordingly upon receiving the official endorsement from School/Centre/Institute.

Research mode student - Refund of all fees (except registration and smart card fees) will be made for withdrawals up to two (2) months from the date of registration.

A student can apply to postpone his/her studies for a period not exceeding one (1) year.

The postponement is only allowed after registration and completion of at least one (1) semester except for medical or valid personal reasons. Apart from medical reasons, approval can also be given if a student has presented one seminar (if this regulation is stipulated in the entry requirement).

Application for postponement can be made online through CampusOnline portal.

Students are required to submit the application to the School by filling in the   form . The form must be submitted to the Supervisor for approval before it is submitted to the relevant School/Centre/Institute for endorsement.

To students who wish to apply for change of field of study, please refer here for the field code.

The University reserves the right to terminate a student’s candidature based on:

• Student’s failure to renew the registration before new semester commences.
• Unsatisfactory academic performance (Coursework/Mixed mode) / Research progress  (Research mode).
• Failure to pay the tuition fees.
• Maximum candidature.

Application for prorated tuition fees are eligible for research mode student who already submitted Notice of Submission and are about to submit the draft thesis within the first two month of the new semester.

Application can be submitted through the following link here  during renewal registration period. (Application will be closed one day before the commencement of the new semester)

Disclaimer:  Universiti Sains Malaysia shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused by the usage of any information obtained from this web site. We reserve the right to revise any information from time to time at our absolute discretion without prior notice and shall not be liable for any loss or damage on any ground due to such revision.

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QUICK LINKS

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Our support Hotline is available 8 hours a day Monday - Friday: 8.10am - 5.10pm Weekend: Closed

Application for Graduate School

The University of Southern Mississippi (“the University”) is committed to the safety and security of the Southern Miss community.  Our annual federal compliance document contains crime statistics as well as policies, procedures, and programs concerning campus safety and security, including processes for responding to emergency situations or sexual offenses.   Among the crime statistics included are three years of statistics for certain types of crimes reported to have occurred on campus, in or on off-campus building(s) or property(ies) or property(ies) controlled by the University and on public property within or immediately adjacent to the campus.  A copy of our annual federal compliance document can be downloaded from the University Police Department (UPD) website .  A copy may also be requested by contacting UPD at 601-266-4986 or at Bond Hall, 1 st Floor West, Hattiesburg, MS 39406. 

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Office of the Registrar

Pre-Graduation To-Do List

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Preparing for graduation can seem like an overwhelming task. In order to make your celebration easy and memorable, students are recommended to reference this Pre-Graduation To-Do List to aid in your completion of the graduation/commencement process.

Grad Fest Spring 2024

Hattiesburg barnes & noble bookstore  thad cochran center.

Monday, March 4, 2024 10:00am - 5:00pm

Tuesday, March 5, 2024 10:00am - 4:00pm

Gulf Park Barnes & Noble Bookstore Hardy Hall

Wednesday, March 6, 2024 1:00pm - 5:00pm

Click on Order Caps and Gown s below for more details!

Apply for Graduation 

*All students regardless of participation in Commencement ceremony MUST apply for graduation.

Optional Services

Order Graduation Announcements

Photo Services - Students may choose to have their photos made in advance of graduation through Southern Miss Photo Services. Call 601.266.4149 to set up an appointment in Hattiesburg. 

Graduates Participating in Commencement

SPRING 2024 COMMENCEMENT SEAT RESERVATION

Tickets will NOT be required for entry into Reed Green Coliseum for the Spring 2024commencement ceremonies. Students are permitted to invite any number of guests.

• Commencement ceremonies will be streamed live at https://www.usm.edu/university/live.php for families and friends who are not able to attend in person.

S outhern Miss wants degree candidates to enjoy this milestone for years to come. Barnes & Noble @ Southern Miss will host Grad Fest for degree candidates to have the convenience of taking care of all of their graduation needs at one time and place. Students may purchase and receive regalia on this day, order invitations, class rings, and visit with other campus representatives. While this event is not mandatory, students are encouraged to receive their regalia early by coming to enjoy Grad Fest on the following dates: 

Hattiesburg Campus (Barnes & Noble): Monday, March 4 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or Tuesday, March 5 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. USM Gulf Coast Campus (Barnes & Noble): March 6 from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

If students are not able to attend Grad Fest, regalia (caps and gowns) may be ordered from Barnes & Noble at Southern Miss during regular business hours for Spring 2024 beginning March 7, 2024, thru April 8, 2024. A late fee will be charged for all orders on April 2, 2024.

Please note:  All orders placed in-store after Grad Fest will be available for pick-up at your campus Barnes and Noble Bookstore May 7-8, 2024, from 9:00am - 5:00pm.

ONLINE REGALIA ORDERING AND PICK UP Caps and gowns may be ordered online beginning March 7, 2024. The deadline to order your cap & gown for the Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremony is April 8, 2024 (date subject to change). A late fee will be charged for all orders starting April 2, 2024.  Students are allowed to keep their regalia (cap, gown and tassel) after their ceremony and have the option to pick up in store or have items shipped to them.

In-store pick up for online orders will take place at your campus Barnes and Noble Bookstore May 7-8, from 9:00am - 5:00pm.  If you choose ship-to-home, your order will ship to you for arrival the week of April 24, 2024.

• Undergraduate Regalia – $53.48 incl. tax (includes cap, gown, and tassel)
• Master’s & Specialists – $106.98 incl. tax (includes cap, gown, hood and tassel)
• Doctoral Mortarboard Cap Package – $74.88 incl. tax (includes mortarboard cap, gown, and tassel)
• Doctoral Tam Package - $139.08 incl. tax (includes deluxe tam w/gold bullion tassel and gown)

o   Graduate School provides Doctoral hoods for their degree candidates.

Caps and gowns may also be ordered in store at Barnes and Noble on both campuses starting March 7, 2024.

Hattiesburg Barnes and Noble    (601) 266-4381

Gulf Park Barnes and Noble        (228) 214-3479

*Orders must be picked up from the campus where the order is placed. Please contact your campus bookstore to arrange a pick up time if you are unable to pick up during the designated pick up dates. 

MASTER'S AND SPECIALISTS HOODS Master's and Specialists hoods are purchased from Graduate Supply House, Inc . Click here to view the various academic hood colors (disciplines) so that you may choose the appropriate hood color to order.

DOCTORAL HOODS Doctoral students should not buy a hood. The cost of the hood is included in your doctoral graduation fees. The Graduate School will provide you with your hood at Commencement check-in on the day of Commencement. Your regalia is yours to keep. Seating cards for doctoral students will be distributed at check in by the Graduate School on the day of commencement.

  VENDORS FOR DOCTORAL REGALIA PURCHASE Graduate Supply House   Oak Hall Cap & Gown

You may choose any other vendor, as long as your gown is in accordance with USM standards - black doctoral with black velvet stripes OR black doctoral with color velvet stripes to match your hood. (Hood is provided by the Graduate School.)  When ordering custom regalia, orders must be placed by March 1st each  Spring semester and October 31st each Fall semester.

Below is a quick reference for information on the color of your velvet stripes if you choose the Deluxe Regalia.

UNIVERSITY ISSUED HONOR CORDS To give distinction to student honor achievements, the University offers honor cords for undergraduate candidates (and approved petitioners) that have a current cumulative Southern Miss GPA of 3.5 or higher.  A black and gold honor cord can be purchased for $15 March 18, 2024 - May 10, 2024. All students who qualify for honor cords are notified via Southern Miss email. Students may opt to have their honor cord mailed to their home or can visit either campus for purchase and pickup.

Students wishing to purchase and pick up honor cords in HATTIESBURG may do so in the Registrar’s Office, Kennard-Washington Hall Room 110 Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m starting Monday, March 18, 2024.

Students wishing to purchase and pick up honor cords on the GULF COAST CAMPUS may do so in the Student Services One Stop, Gulf Coast Library, room 101 Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m starting Monday, March 18, 2024.

Students wishing to have their honor cords mailed can request and purchase using our Honor Cord Request Form .  The link for the online purchase will be available to students beginning Monday, March 18, 2024.

A student’s Latin designation shown in the Commencement program is based upon the student’s cumulative USM GPA at the end of the term preceding the graduation term. The official distinction on a student’s diploma and final transcript may differ, depending upon the student’s final semester’s grades.

R EQUESTS FOR COMMENCEMENT STOLES/CORDS FOR ON CAMPUS ORGANIZATIONS A commencement stole is a decorative vestment worn by students who are members of various organizations for the purpose of denoting outstanding achievements in academics and used to indicate membership in a professional organization. All commencement stoles worn at graduation must be approved through the Office of the University Registrar.

Organizations must complete the online application   along with submitting a supplemental formal letter addressed to the Academic Regalia Subcommittee of the Executive Commencement Committee by February 1 for Spring commencement and September 1 for Fall commencement . The letter will need to address justification for requesting cords and will need to include the academic requirements for joining the organization. The committee will only consider commencement stoles/cords that are associated with academic excellence. Along with attaching the formal letter to the online application , the organization must attach a picture of the stole/cord they’re wishing to purchase when submitting the application.

Please address memo to: Academic Regalia Subcommittee of the Executive Commencement Committee ATTN: Dana%20Berry 118 College Drive #5166 Hattiesburg, MS 39406

All questions regarding organizations applying for a commencement stole or cord should be directed at our Graduation%20Listserv  or to Dana%20Berry .

Students may choose to have their photos made in advance of graduation through Southern Miss Photo Services. Call 601.266.4149 to set up an appointment in Hattiesburg. 

Find out more about commencement photos on our Day of Commencement page

An  undergraduate student  who wishes to make petition to walk in a ceremony for which he/she is not an actual degree candidate, should complete the Commencement Ceremony Petition .

The Graduate School allows students to attend a Commencement Ceremony only for the term in which they are graduating (excluding summer graduates who are allowed to participate in the Fall Commencement Ceremony following their summer graduation). For questions please contact the Graduate School at (601) 266-4369 or email Document%20Specialists . 

Students who graduate in the summer may walk in the Fall Commencement Ceremony.

IMPACT ON GRADUATION It is important to understand that your privacy status could impact your graduation in several ways:    •  Your name will not appear on the RSVP Confirmation page    •  Your name will not appear in the Commencement Program    •  We will not be able to confirm your degree to potential employers

DIRECTORY INFORMATION The University of Southern Mississippi has designated the following items as Directory Information, subject to public disclosure in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974:    •  Address                           •  Dates of Attendance    •  Student Name                 •  Classification    •  Telephone Number         •  Degree(s) Earned    •  E-mail Address                •  Previous Institutions Attended    •  Major                                •  Class Rank

Directory Information pertaining to students of The University of Southern Mississippi is never knowingly provided to any requester for commercial purposes. Students must request the University not to release Directory Information; however, the consequences of that action should be considered before making the decision to do so.    •  The enrollment of students who request to withhold Directory Information cannot be verified to any outside source such as potential employers, colleges, universities, or medical insurance        companies.    •  The names of students who request to withhold Directory Information will not appear in any        official university publication distributed to the public, such as a commencement program.     •  The names of students who request to withhold Directory Information will not be provided to         the media when releasing academic recognition announcements (President's List or Dean's        List).

Please understand that academic information will be kept completely private for you with or without the privacy status. However, for students who request privacy of their public information, directory information that is normally considered public is also kept private. Directory information includes: name, address, birth date, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, major and most recent previous educational institution attended.

Students who know they will not graduate the semester for which they have applied but will graduate a subsequent semester must complete a new degree application (via their SOAR account) and obtain all necessary signatures. The completed form should be submitted to your Dean's Office for processing.

Prepare for Commencement

Office of the Registrar Kennard-Washington Hall (KWH) Room 110 118 College Drive, #5006 Hattiesburg, MS 39406

Hattiesburg Campus

Email registrarFREEMississippi

Phone 601.266.5006

Student Services One Stop Gulf Coast Library (GCL) 101 730 East Beach Boulevard Long Beach, MS 39560

Gulf Park Campus

Email OneStop_GPFREEMississippi

Phone 228.214.3370

Successful applicants are admitted to a specific program following review and approval of application by faculty and the school director in which the applicant intends to study. Non-degree seeking applicants are approved by the Graduate School Admissions Office.

All graduate applicants are required to supply the following documents:

• Official transcripts from all institutions from which a bachelor’s degree or higher degree was obtained AND official transcripts for all work completed after obtaining the bachelor’s degree, including undergraduate and graduate coursework. Junior/community college transcripts are NOT required. (Applicants who are applying for nursing programs and have earned an Associate of Science-Nursing should include those transcripts.)
• The requirement for a standardized test score (i.e. GRE, GMAT) as a component of graduate school admission applications is established by each graduate program based on accepted practices for the discipline. If a standardized exam score is required, programs may accept scores from reputable professional school admission exams or professional certification exams in lieu of the GRE or GMAT.  If a standardized exam is not required, programs must substitute other rigorous assessment criteria.  A holistic review of all applications must be the normal practice, with consideration given to a variety of parameters that provide both qualitative and quantitative assessment of the applicant’s readiness for graduate-level study. Admissions criteria can be more rigorous for doctoral programs than lower-level graduate programs.
• 3 letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic performance. Applicants may contact the school of their major to determine if the school will accept non-academic recommenders.
• Other supplemental materials as required by schools, such as a résumé, statement of purpose, writing sample, etc. Applicants may contact the school of their major for additional information regarding these supplemental documents.
• International students must submit TOEFL, IELTS or PTE scores

In addition to the above documents, certain schools may conduct interviews or auditions as part of their application process. Applicants will be contacted at a later date if selected to interview or audition. International applicants, please mail official transcripts to:

The University of Southern Mississippi International Student and Scholar Services 118 College Drive #5151 Hattiesburg, MS 39406 USA

The academic record and character of the applicant must be in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning, the laws of the state of Mississippi, and the policies of the university. The university reserves the right to cancel the admission or registration of an individual whose attendance at the university, in the opinion of the appropriate administrative officer and the President, would not be beneficial to the student and/or to the institution.

Students admitted to a graduate degree program may not pursue a second graduate degree concurrently unless the dual graduate degrees are approved and identified in the Graduate Bulletin . Approved dual graduate degrees require a second application and application fee. Students may not pursue a second undergraduate degree while pursuing a graduate degree.

The admission requirements listed below represent the minimal standards set by the Graduate Council. Additional requirements and higher standards may be stipulated by the various schools. Applicants should check for such requirements in the school section of the Bulletin .

Deadlines for Graduate Admission Application

Graduate School Admission Deadlines:

Fall-August 15

Spring-January 15

Summer-May 15th

Many programs have earlier priority deadlines. Please contact the program of your major regarding earlier deadlines.

All application materials, including test scores and transcripts, must be received by Graduate School Admissions by the school’s deadline. (Official transcripts must be sent directly to Graduate School Admissions).

Types of Admission to Master’s Programs

An applicant may be granted regular or conditional admission to a master’s program. The letter of acceptance from the Dean of the Graduate School is the official letter of admission.

• The applicant must hold a baccalaureate degree from an institution approved by a recognized accrediting agency.
• The applicant must be eligible to re-enter the last college or university attended in good standing.
• The applicant must present evidence, by official transcript, of a grade point average equivalent to at least 2.75 (calculated on a 4.0 scale) for the last two years (60 hours) of undergraduate study. Some schools require a higher GPA for regular admission.
• The school admissions committee and chair must be satisfied that the applicant shows promise of satisfying master’s degree requirements and that the applicant’s interests are an appropriate fit with the school.
• International students must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores, unless baccalaureate degree is from an accredited English speaking university.
• A non-refundable application fee must accompany each application.
• Conditional Admission An applicant who fails to qualify for regular admission may be admitted on a conditional basis if a student possesses a grade point average of at least 2.0 (calculated on a 4.0 scale) on the last 60 hours of coursework. A master’s student admitted conditionally must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 on the first nine (9) hours of coursework at or above the 500 level. If, prior to satisfying the requirements to have the conditional status removed, the student attempts more than 9 hours of coursework at or above the 500 level, he or she must achieve a 3.0 overall grade point average on all coursework. Only USM courses will be applied toward the 9 hours required. Additional requirements may be imposed by the school. The student should consult the graduate coordinator or school director to review the requirements. When academic conditions are met, the school director may petition the Graduate School to reclassify the student as a regularly admitted student. A student achieving the required grade point average or otherwise failing to satisfy any additional requirements will be dismissed from the program.

Types of Admission to Specialist’s Programs

Advanced graduate programs leading to the specialist’s degree are available to qualified students. An applicant may be granted regular or conditional admission to these programs. The letter of acceptance from the Dean of the Graduate School is the official letter of admission.

• The applicant must hold a master’s degree from an institution approved by a recognized accrediting agency.
• The applicant must present evidence, by official transcript, of a grade point average no lower than 3.25 (calculated on a 4.0 scale) on previous graduate work. Applicants must also submit official transcripts from all other institutions previously attended.
• The appropriate school director, college dean, and the Dean of the Graduate School must be satisfied that the applicant shows promise of satisfying specialist’s degree requirements. The school admissions coordinator and chair will review all application materials and decide whether or not the applicant should be admitted.
• International students must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores, unless baccalaureate or master’s degree is from an accredited English speaking university.
• Conditional Admission Student who fails to qualify for regular admission may be admitted on a conditional basis; if a student possesses a grade point average of at least 3.00 (on a 4.0 scale) on previous graduate coursework. A specialist’s student admitted conditionally must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.25 on the first nine (9) hours of coursework at or above the 600 level. If, prior to satisfying the requirements to have the conditional status removed, the student attempts more than 9 hours of coursework at or above the 600 level, he or she must achieve a 3.25 overall grade point average on all course work. Only USM courses will be applied toward the 9 hours required. Additional requirements may be imposed by the school. The student should meet with the school director to review the requirements. All requirements must be met or the student will not be allowed to continue to seek a specialist’s degree. Upon the recommendation of the school director and with the approval of the dean, the student will be reclassified as a regularly admitted student. A student not obtaining the required grade point average or otherwise failing to satisfy any additional requirements will be dismissed from the program.

Types of Admission to Doctoral Programs

Advanced graduate programs leading to the doctoral degree are available to qualified students. An applicant may be granted regular or conditional admission to these programs. The letter of acceptance from the Dean of the Graduate School is the official letter of admission.

• The applicant must hold a baccalaureate or master’s degree from an institution approved by a recognized accrediting agency. The degree required for admission into a doctoral program varies by department.
• The applicant who does not hold a master’s degree must present evidence, by official transcript, of a grade point average equivalent to at least 2.75 (calculated on a 4.0 scale) for the last two years of undergraduate study and a grade point average of at least 3.0 on undergraduate courses in the field of proposed graduate study.
• The applicant who holds a master’s degree must present evidence, by official transcript, of a grade point average no lower than 3.50 (calculated on a 4.0 scale) on previous graduate coursework.
• The appropriate school director, college dean, and the dean of the Graduate School must be satisfied that the applicant shows promise of satisfying doctoral degree requirements.
• Conditional Admission An applicant holding a bachelor’s degree who fails to qualify for regular admission may be admitted on a conditional basis; provided such an applicant possesses a grade point average of 2.50 (calculated on a 4.0 scale) in his/her last 60 hrs. An applicant holding a master’s degree who fails to qualify for regular admission may be admitted on a conditional basis, provided however, such an applicant possesses a grade point average of 3.25 in master’s and/or specialist’s coursework. A doctoral applicant admitted conditionally must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.5 on the first nine (9) hours of coursework at or above the 600 level. If, prior to satisfying the requirements to have the conditional status removed, the student attempts more than 9 hours of coursework at or above the 600 level, he or she must achieve a 3.5 overall grade point average. Only USM courses will be applied toward the 9 hours required. Additional requirements may be imposed by the school. The applicant should meet with the school director to review the requirements. Upon the recommendation of the school director and with the approval of the dean, the student will be reclassified as a regularly admitted student. A student not maintaining the required grade point average or otherwise failing to satisfy any additional requirements will be dismissed from the program.

Regulations Governing Admission of Non-Degree Graduate Students

Applicants must apply for non-degree status by submitting the online application, proof of degree, and application fee.

A prospective student may choose to enroll as a non-degree graduate student for the following reasons:

• The applicant did not meet requirements for conditional or regular admission.
• The applicant is not seeking a degree but is taking courses for personal level update.
• The applicant is enrolled in another university and desires to obtain credit from The University of Southern Mississippi to be transferred to the university from which he or she is seeking a degree.
• The applicant did not meet the application deadline for a degree program.

Enrollment as a non-degree graduate student does not signify admission to any school or to any degree program. A non-degree graduate student must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. Non-degree graduate students are not eligible for financial aid.

Up to twelve (12) hours of coursework taken as a non-degree student may be applied to a graduate program of study with the approval of the graduate committee chair and/or graduate committee if the student is admitted later to a degree program.

Graduate Certificate Programs

Credit Hours

Graduate certificate programs require a minimum of 12 credit hours and the completion of discipline-specific requirements.

Admission Requirements

The applicant must complete the online application form and pay the application fee.

The applicant must hold a baccalaureate degree from an institution approved by a recognized accrediting agency. Some certificate programs require the applicant hold a master’s degree or be currently enrolled in a graduate degree program.

The applicant must submit official transcripts from the institution awarding the baccalaureate degree and higher graduate or professional degrees (if appropriate). The applicant must be able to re-enter in good standing the last college or university attended.

A decision to admit an applicant to a certificate program is based on school review and approval by the school director. 

Credit Hour Limitations

No more than twelve (12) semester hours of work from the certificate program may be used toward a master’s, specialist, or a doctoral degree, with the approval of the graduate committee chair and/or graduate committee.

Permission for Undergraduate Students to Register for Graduate Credit as a Non-Degree Student

Undergraduate students at The University of Southern Mississippi who meet the GPA requirements for regular admission may apply to The Graduate School for permission to take coursework for graduate credit if within 12 semester hours of meeting bachelor’s degree requirements as certified by the university registrar. If approved, the student may then register for graduate courses up to a maximum of nine semester hours of graduate credit with a total course load not exceeding 12 semester hours or 15 hours with Graduate Dean permission. The student must complete requirements for the baccalaureate degree within the first semester/term in which he or she registers for graduate courses. The student’s application for admission to graduate school will not be given final approval until after he or she satisfies all requirements for the baccalaureate degree. To apply, the undergraduate student must submit the Undergraduate Request to Enroll in Graduate Courses form, which requires approval from the instructor of the course, the student’s academic advisor, and the Dean of the Graduate School.

An undergraduate student from another institution desiring to take graduate courses as listed above should file a graduate application, have a transcript sent to graduate school admissions, and receive permission from the school director and dean of the Graduate School to take a graduate class.

Graduate Students Taking Undergraduate Courses

Graduate students enrolled in undergraduate courses as required by their Degree Progress Report (DPR) of Study must complete the “Out of Career” permission form available on the Graduate School website and receive permission from their school director and the Dean of the Graduate School. Graduate students taking undergraduate courses should be aware that such courses are considered “out of career” and do not count toward eligibility for financial assistance or the calculation of full-time status. Although graduate students taking undergraduate courses will receive a grade for the coursework, they will not receive quality points; the absence of quality points may negatively impact the ability of the student to count the course(s) for credit when seeking licensure or certification. It is the responsibility of the student to determine how the course will affect his/her status and future plans. Students should contact The Graduate School with questions. Students may not earn an undergraduate degree while earning a graduate degree.

Procedures for Applying for Admission (U.S. citizens)

• The applicant must submit a new application for each program and/or degree sought: certificate, master’s, specialist, and doctoral.
• All credentials (application, an official transcript from each institution attended, and official report of standardized test scores) must be submitted to Graduate School Admissions via the online application by the deadline published on the Graduate School Web page. Letters of recommendation and other required materials should be submitted online (see online application). If applying to more than one department, students should submit two applications and all materials. Send official transcripts and official test scores to Graduate School Admissions.
• All applicants must pay an application fee for each application submitted. Application fees must be paid by credit or debit card when application is submitted.
• After all credentials are received, graduate school admissions staff will compute the applicant’s grade point average and will forward the application and transcripts to the appropriate department chair. As soon as the application has been processed by the school director, and the Dean of the Graduate School, the Graduate School will notify the applicant of the university’s decision on the request for admission. The letter of acceptance from the Dean of the Graduate School is the official letter of admission.
• An applicant’s admission status is good for a maximum of 2 semesters (excluding summer). However, some schools require a new application if the applicant does not enroll the semester he/she is admitted. Applicants must secure school approval to change their admission date. Once a student’s admission window closes, all paperwork (transcripts, etc.) is shredded, and a student must again apply for admission (not readmission).
• Applicants whose native language is not English and have recently come to the United States are required to take the TOEFL, IELTS or PTE exam to demonstrate English proficiency. Exceptions may be made if the applicant has earned a degree from a U.S. accredited university or an English speaking university.
• If born after 1956, a Certificate of Compliance with Immunization is required.

Procedures for Applying for Admission (Non-U.S. citizens/International)

International Admissions The University of Southern Mississippi 118 College Drive #5135 Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001 U.S.A. (601) 266-4841 fax (601) 266-4898 [email protected]  

International Admissions processes all international applications, evaluates foreign academic credentials, and issues the appropriate immigration documents for non-immigrant foreign students.

International Admissions disseminates Southern Miss information to foreign schools, U.S. embassies/consulates abroad, and non-profit international organizations (such as the Institute for International Education). This office also provides information to and immigration documents for research scholars invited by Southern Miss to participate in research opportunities.

Admission Procedure:

• The applicant must submit a new online application for each program and/or degree sought: certificate, master’s, specialist, and doctoral at www.usm.edu/graduate-school. The application and supporting documents must be received by March 1 for summer admission, June 1 for fall admission and October 1 for spring admission, or by specific school deadlines, whichever comes first.
• All credentials (an official transcript from each institution attended, certified English translations and official report of standardized test scores) must be submitted to International Admissions. Letters of recommendation and other required materials should be submitted online (see online application). If applying to more than one school, students should submit two applications and all materials. Test scores should be submitted via the testing agency.
• Application materials submitted to the university will not be returned.
• After all credentials are received, graduate school admissions staff will compute the applicant’s grade point average and will forward the application and transcripts to the appropriate department chair. As soon as the application has been processed by the department chair, the college dean, and the Dean of the Graduate School, the Graduate School will notify the applicant of the university’s decision on the request for admission. The letter from the Dean of the Graduate School is the official letter of admission.
• Applicants whose native language is not English are required to take the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE exam to demonstrate English proficiency. Exceptions may be made if the applicant has earned a degree from a U.S. accredited university or an English speaking university.
• Financial Resources: To meet requirements for entry into the United States for study, applicants are required by federal law to demonstrate sufficient financial resources. Students must be prepared to provide proof that he/she has sufficient funds to cover the first year of study. In addition, students must demonstrate financial solvency for future years of study to establish that he/she will not become a public charge. Applicants must provide documented evidence of their financial resources for university study since the university has no special fund for financial assistance to international students.

A Certificate of Eligibility for exchange Visitor Status (Form DS-2019 for a J-1 visa) or a Certificate of Eligibility for Student Status (Form I-20 for an F-1 visa) is issued only to those applicants who have been officially admitted to the university.

Immunization Requirements

All students (including transfer and online) entering the university for the first time and enrolling for academic credit must document proof of immunization for measles and rubella.

• Obtain a Certificate of Compliance with Immunization (Form No. 121-C) from a local Mississippi State Board of Health office, if a resident of the state of Mississippi. Two doses of measles vaccine are required. All international students must have a chest X-ray to screen for tuberculosis;
• Documentation (month and year) of immunization that was received after the first birthday;
• Positive measles and rubella serology titer with date;
• Physician-documented history of having had measles with date of disease. History of rubella is not acceptable.
• Pregnant women
• Women suspecting pregnancy
• Women anticipating pregnancy within three months
• Medical disease that will cause a permanent contraindication to immunization
• All persons born prior to 1957

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Student FAQs

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Below you’ll find the answers to commonly asked questions from students as they approach their graduation. If you have a question that isn’t answered below, please reach out by emailing us at [email protected] .

Yes! Applying to graduate is the important first step in the process, whether you plan to attend the Commencement ceremony or not. The deadline to apply to graduate is March 1st, 2024. To apply to graduate , please visit our webpage .

Graduates of the Class of 2024 are required to wear regalia to participate in the Commencement ceremony on May 4th.

We are asking graduates to pre-order their regalia online by April 1st . Pre-ordering is not a requirement; it helps the University Store to make sure they do not run out of sizes. PhD candidates should order by April 1st as their regalia is special ordered.

Grads may select on-campus pickup in Portland (218 Abromson), Gorham (Library, Study Room 6), Lewiston (Library), or have it shipped to them.

On-campus sales for regalia will begin on Monday, April 22nd out of the University Store’s office at 218 Abromson Hall.

Bachelor degree grads who have earned academic honor cords will have their cords automatically placed in their orders starting then. If a grad picks up their order before the 22nd, they should check back after the 22nd to see if they should receive cords.

Reduce/Reuse/Recycle: The University uses ‘Greenweaver” graduation gowns. Each is made from 23-27 plastic bottles! We highly recommend that after use, graduates gift their gown to a friend of similar height that has not graduated yet. We sell hats and tassels separately for this reason. The University Store can send used gowns back to the manufacturer for recycling for any who do not wish to keep it.

There are a number of ways to apply. For more information and to complete an online application to graduate, please visit our webpage .

Undergraduate students who have completed at least 114 credits and are registered for the remaining 6 credits required to graduate by the end of summer can participate in the Commencement ceremony.

Please visit our webpage for more information and to apply to graduate .

When you applied to graduate, you indicated whether or not you plan to participate in the Commencement ceremony. If you applied to graduate in the Fall semester and don’t remember what you selected, or if your plans to participate have changed, please get in touch with the Office of Registration and Scheduling Services .

Graduates eligible to participate in Commencement 2024 do not need a ticket for themselves. Graduates will need to be in possession of their regalia to enter the venue.

Graduates eligible to participate in Commencement 2024 are allowed five guest tickets . Due to venue capacity, we are no longer able to accommodate requests for any extra tickets beyond the 5 guest tickets guaranteed to every graduate, and we are unable to make any exceptions. Please feel free to reach out to your fellow graduates for any extra tickets they may not need to utilize. There is no assigned seating associated with the tickets so guests can sit with their party. The Cross Insurance Arena requires tickets for everyone to enter the main venue of the arena. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.

A livestream of the Commencement ceremony will be available for people to watch if they are unable to attend the ceremony in person. The link for the livestream will be posted on usm.maine.edu/commencement shortly before the ceremony begins.

Students signed up to attend Commencement will be able to pick up their 5 tickets beginning April 1 . You do not need to request tickets in advance. The pick up location is Conference Services located in Suite 111 on the first floor of the Abromson Community Education Center. Pick up times are from 9am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday.

If you do not collect your tickets by 3:30pm on May 2nd, your tickets will be available at the Will Call area at the Cross Insurance Arena starting at 7:30am the morning of Commencement.

Please note, lost tickets cannot be replaced.

All tickets must be collected in person. We are unable to mail tickets at this time.

The Spring Street Parking Garage (45 Spring Street) is located adjacent to the Cross Insurance Arena and is available for parking for a fee.

We have created a color-coded map of the robing areas that graduates will go to, according to their major/department.

When you enter the Cross Insurance Arena on the morning of Commencement, there will be pathways lined with color-coded tape that will take you to your robing area. The colors of the tape correspond to the color of your robing area.

The Cross Insurance Arena is accessible to guests with mobility challenges. You may enter from both main entrances, and the Arena has wheelchairs available (located in the main lobby) which may be borrowed for the duration of the Commencement ceremony. The Arena has accessible seating (including seating for guests with wheelchairs) located in the sky boxes and on the landings, as well as elevators for accessing these spaces. There will be extra chairs set up for one additional member of your party as well. Arena staff will help direct those who need accessible seating to the appropriate areas.

ASL interpreters and CART captioning (on the jumbo screen at the Arena & on the livestream) will be available during Commencement. Limited seating for guests with hearing impairment (for ASL interpretation) or visual impairment will be located in the front row of Section C at the Arena.

If you have questions about access, need to request disability accommodations, or require other assistance for Commencement, please contact Sherry Philips Gleason at [email protected] .

Yes! The link for the video broadcast will be posted on the front page of the Commencement website closer to the date of the event.

The deadline for getting your name listed in the program is March 1st, 2024. You may still apply to graduate and participate in the May 4th Commencement ceremony, however your name will not be included in any printed materials if you miss the March 1st deadline.

Graduation with distinction categories are (a) at least 3.90 for summa cum laude; (b) at least 3.75 and less than 3.90 for magna cum laude; and (c) at least 3.60 and less than 3.75 for cum laude.

Honors status for the May Commencement ceremony is based on the cumulative GPA obtained at the time of booklet printing, March 1. For more information, read our Academic Policies .

NOTE: Honor cords will need to be picked up either from the University Store or at the booth in the Cross Insurance Arena lobby before the ceremony.

Your diploma will be mailed to you once your appropriate Academic Dean or Department has certified that you have met all degree requirements and your degree has been awarded. This process usually takes 4-6 weeks.

Undergraduate diplomas measure 7×9 inches and Graduate diplomas measure 8 1/2×11. Frames can be ordered through the University store here . Check out the University Store Graduation page for information on other items available for purchase as well.

A student who completes two majors will receive one diploma that lists both majors.

Don’t worry! You can order a replacement diploma through the Office of Registration and Scheduling Services .

USM Alumni Relations would love to communicate with you about news, events, and special offers just for USM graduates!