
Peter Smith, Ph.D.
School of Humanities, Religion and Social Sciences
Explore Individualized Master of Arts Program, M.A.
The individualized master of arts program provides a structure for master’s-level study in areas where the university has significant strengths, but does not offer a formal program.
It also makes it possible for students like you to pursue interdisciplinary graduate degrees. To gain expertise and an appropriate selection of courses, the individualized master of arts draws upon resources outside of the university.
It offers maximum flexibility, combining taught courses, independent study or research, seminars and other approved experiences. The overall content of the program is negotiated with a faculty advisor.
Program Director: Peter Smith, Ph.D.
The Individualized Master of Arts program (IMAP) provides a structure for master’s-level study in areas where the university has significant faculty strengths but does not offer a formal program. The program offers the opportunity for students, in consultation with a mentor/advisor, to design a program around specific areas of interest subject to approval by the IMAP Council and the availability and willingness of university faculty to supervise study in the proposed area. A significant provision of the program is the possibility of drawing on expertise and resources outside the university in pursuing the proposed study. All proposals are subject to approval by the IMAP Council.
The degree typically consists of a minimum of 36 units, or their equivalent, that constitutes a coherent disciplinary or interdisciplinary focus. The course of study must include a core of at least 3 units in biblical/theological/ethics studies or a related area and 4 units of thesis or project work. The 3 units of biblical/theological/ethics study are required as part of the university’s commitment to the Christian faith. At least 24 units must be taken at FPU. Six units are to be taken in a setting that provides for interaction with others-in a classroom or online.
The content and structure of each course of study is negotiated with the program advisor and may combine taught courses, independent study or research, tutorials, seminars or supervised field experience. Each final study plan is subject to approval by the IMAP Council and the dean(s) of the school(s) in which the area of study resides.
A maximum of 12 units completed prior to admission may be considered for transfer from other accredited graduate programs and must be included in the proposed program. No course may be more than 10 years old at the time of completion of the IMAP.
The program director and an IMAP Council provide general oversight to the program under the auspices of the graduate academic committee. The IMAP Council oversees the general and core requirements of the program and appoints a faculty mentor/advisor for each admitted student. Advisors are regular university faculty. Individuals from outside the university with recognized experience and expertise in the area of study may be invited to serve as instructors or supervisors of student learning experiences.
In addition, students submit a preliminary proposed course of study. Students are expected to have sufficient background in the proposed area of study to make their success in the program likely. The IMAP Council may recommend or require prerequisite studies if deemed appropriate.
The IMAP course of study must demonstrate internal coherence and should include a section that pays attention to the theoretical context of the proposed study. The proposed plan should provide evidence that specified outcomes are likely to be met. The proposed course of study should include at least these components:
The proposed course of study, when approved, is considered to be a learning contract and students will be held accountable to it at the time the IMAP is completed. At the same time, the plan is not intended to be constraining. What students discover and learn during the early part of their study may lead to modifications later on. Any substantive changes in coursework must be put in writing and must be approved by the program advisor and the IMAP program director, with a copy placed in the student’s file.
Main Campus Fresno, Online
The decision to embark on graduate studies is a big one. Our 40+ graduate programs will equip you to succeed in your career and in your life. You’ll become part of a small community of learners, thrive in a flexible learning environment and be challenged by a rigorous curriculum. Learn how much further you can go at FPU!
For more information, contact the campus nearest you, attend an information meeting or ask about a program.
The below listed prices reflect the current and upcoming Fall and Spring semesters and do not include any financial aid. Paying for college can be an overwhelming step in your education journey. We can help you find all the opportunities to reduce your out of pocket costs.
Tuition per Unit | Amount |
---|---|
700 Level | $730 |
Teacher Education | $730 |
MBA | $785 |
MSN and LEAD | $750 |
KIN | $590 |
Other Costs | Amount |
---|---|
Student services fee (per semester) | $60 |
* Field Placement Fee (charged for both the international and regional trip semesters) | $1,500 |
Tuition per Unit | Amount |
---|---|
700 Level | $705 |
Teacher Education | $705 |
MBA | $757* |
MSN and LEAD | $720 |
KIN | $570 |
Other Costs | Amount |
---|---|
Student services fee (per semester) | $60 |
* Field Placement Fee (charged for both the international and regional trip semesters) | $1,500 |
* This is an estimate. Costs subject to change. Please refer to the Catalog for additional fees. Cost of attendance figures are used for budgeting purposes only and represent an estimate of projected tuition and fees for the coming academic year. Actual tuition rates are approved by the Board of Trustees and may vary.
Financial aid can refer to scholarships, grants and loans, which are available to you from the government, the university or outside sources. Aid types vary depending on the type of student you are.
Because this degree offers such a wide range of options, career opportunities are virtually endless. The IMAP can be used to pursue scholarly interests as well as to strengthen specialized skills required by certain jobs.
The staff in our Career Development and Experiential Learning Center are here to help you prepare to enter the working world. Whether your a freshman or an FPU alum, there are a number of resources and trainings offered to help you find the internship and job you’re looking for.