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Pepperdine | Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Master of Arts in Social Entrepreneurship and Change

Program Overview

School: Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Cost: $1,270 per unit
Units: 40
Terms: Fall, Spring, Summer
Length: 20 months
Location(s): West Los Angeles (classes are occasionally held on the Malibu campus)*
Format: Online-Hybrid
Deadlines:
  • To be considered for a $750 scholarship apply by 11:59 PM PST on August 5th, 2019.
*Please note that your campus of choice cannot be guaranteed. Campus offerings are contingent upon availability and subject to change.

The Master of Arts in Social Entrepreneurship and Change program will prepare students to work in social activism and entrepreneurship, to become better leaders in their industry, or to pursue doctoral studies.

Program Overview

Designed for both working professionals and full-time students alike, this online hybrid program equips students with the critical knowledge, skills, and resources to lead and effect change in their organizations, local communities, and across the globe. As social entrepreneurs, students learn to examine complex social problems and to create sustainable market-based solutions. As impactful leaders, students learn management practices such as formulating strategies, implementing programs, and creating marketing campaigns. In the second year of the program, students participate in a global exchange experience in a developing country. The program culminates in a two-term capstone project, during which each student researches and designs a social enterprise, writes a business plan, and presents their validated idea to social entrepreneur leaders in a Fast Pitch event.

Application Deadlines

Fall 2019 Application Deadline

Aug 5 Countdown Timer

Fall 2019 Final Application Deadline to be considered for a $750 scholarship is August 5th, 2019, 11:59PM PST.

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Quick Facts

  • 20moProgram Completion
  • 1Trimester Abroad
  • GRENot Required
  • HybridProgram Format

Program Benefits

  • Prestigious program at the #46-ranked university in the US*
  • Outstanding faculty, recognized industry experts, scholars and clinicians
  • Cohort model designed for strong peer support and lifelong professional relationships
  • Small class sizes providing a supportive learning environment and meaningful student-faculty interactions
  • Hybrid format with 60 percent face-to-face and 40 percent online instruction
  • Global exchange experience creates a well-rounded global perspective of social, economic, and community issues
  • Capstone project provides a firm professional next step after completion of the program
  • Extensive networking opportunities through SEC Advisory board and our alumni network with more than 20,000 professionals

* U.S. News & Report, Best Colleges Rankings, National Universities

Career Outcomes

A master's degree in Social Entrepreneurship and Change is valuable in many professional settings, including corporations, non-profit and governmental organizations, and higher education institutions. After earning your degree, you may pursue employment in a variety of mission-seeking roles, including:

  • Enterprise Director
  • Director of Education
  • Human Resources Manager
  • Program Director
  • Marketing Manager
  • Director of Development

Employment Potential

  • The average annual wage for Marketing Managers was $145,620 in 2017*
  • The average annual wage for General and Operations Managers was $123,460 in 2017*
  • The average annual wage for Human Resources Managers was $123,510 in 2017*

*U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017

FAQs

What is the required GPA?

We ask that candidates have a 3.0 cumulative GPA from their baccalaureate program; however, we review all applications holistically for individuals who show potential for success in our program. If you're concerned about your GPA, you may include a brief 'GPA Statement of Explanation' with your application.

When does the program start?

This program starts in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. We accept applications throughout the year.

What does rolling admission mean?

We begin reviewing applications at the start of each calendar year. Once an application is complete, it typically takes 4-5 weeks to receive an admissions decision. Applications received after the deadline are reviewed on a space-available basis. If the program is full, applicants will be considered for the following year.

How long is the program?

This program can be completed in 5 terms or 1.6 years (20 months).

I am an International Applicant. What additional admission requirements do I need to submit? 

You'll need to:

1. Send all international transcripts to be evaluated by either the International Education Research Foundation (www.ierf.org) or World Education Services, Inc. (www.wes.org) for a comprehensive report that they will send directly to Pepperdine. This process can take a few weeks.

2. Submit all original certified transcripts in English to Pepperdine directly.

3. If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the computer-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 220. If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. Information concerning the availability of this test outside of the US can be obtained by contacting TOEFL, Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA or online at www.toefl.org. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam.

What is the format of the program?

This is a 60/40 blended program. Sixty percent of your coursework is face-to-face and 40 percent is through synchronous and asynchronous online interactions. There are occasional asynchronous classes to provide additional information. The program will have two extended weekend face-to-
face meetings per term at the West Los Angeles Graduate Campus and once per year these classes may be held at the Malibu campus. Weekly sessions will take place online usually at 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM PST.

When are classes held?

In addition to the New Student Orientation and Onboarding, the cohort meets face-to-face twice a semester for three days. There are weekly online synchronous classes usually at 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM PST. In between face-to-face meetings and online classes, students participate in online course work, both synchronously and asynchronously, individually and in teams.

What are typical career paths for graduates of this program?

Our graduates are prepared to address major social problems such as inadequate education, civic engagement, and health systems, entrenched poverty, environmental threats, and high crime rates through innovative ideas that advance solutions. Opportunities include, but are not limited to positions in non-profits, social enterprises, for-profit corporate social responsibility, and various foundations. Some students start their own social enterprises.

How can I learn more about this program?

You're welcome to attend one of our in-person or online information sessions. If you are unable to attend an information session, you can connect with the Admissions and Recruitment Team at gsep-recruitment@pepperdine.edu to schedule a personal consultation.

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Contact Us

Enrollment Services Office
Pepperdine University
Graduate School of Education and Psychology
6100 Center Drive, 5th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90045

310.258.2850

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