Individualized Master of Arts Program, M.A.

When you can design your future,
the possibilities are endless.

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 Highlights

• Design an individualized program around a specific area of interest
• Learn in the context of small classes
• Work with published scholars in your area of interest
• For a detailed program brochure click here

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Faculty

W. Marshall Johnston, Ph.D.

Director of the University Scholars Program

Catalog

Program Director: W. Marshall Johnston, 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.

Program Structure

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.

Faculty

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.

Admissions Requirements

• Three current reference forms
• Interview with program director
• Letter of explanation if GPA is under 2.75

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.

1. Prospective students schedule a meeting or a telephone call with the program director (or representative) to discuss their interests, to determine whether or not the program is likely to meet their needs and whether or not Fresno Pacific University is able to offer study in the proposed area.
2. Applicants must prepare a preliminary proposal of study (two to three pages long) that will later be developed into their final study plan and that includes their proposed objectives, a proposed concentration, a summary of their preliminary proposal of study and a summary of their background for study in the proposed area.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. The student will identify and explain the key concepts in the chosen field of study.
2. The student will demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and responsibly both orally and in writing.
3. The student will interpret and appraise the literature related to the chosen thesis/project topic.

Proposed Course of Study

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:

1. Theoretical context for the field(s) in which the study will be undertaken.
2. Rationale and objectives for the program of study, including how they fit into professional and/or personal goals.
3. A title that reflects the field of study and a brief description of the content.
4. Key questions to be investigated and/or skills to be developed.
5. Lists of activities and experiences, including proposed courses, faculty and unit credit information. (Courses of study should typically involve at least five faculty members.) A proposed time frame for completing coursework should be part of this exposition.
6. A tentative focus for the master's degree project or thesis.
7. The major resources to be accessed, including preliminary overview of available bibliographic and human resources.

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.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno, Online
 

Possibilities Await
With an FPU Education

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, visit our Connect page to schedule a meeting with an admission professional or to find an upcoming information session or registration event.

Ready to take the next step?

To be considered for admission to the program please submit the following items:

• Completed Application for Admission and $45 non-refundable application fee.
• Official college/university transcript(s) verifying receipt of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and any post-baccalaureate work.
  • Applicants to the IMAP are expected to have sufficient background in proposed areas of study.

  • Transcripts can be sent electronically by your institution to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or via mail in an envelope sealed by your institution to:

    Fresno Pacific University
    Office of the Registrar
    1717 S. Chestnut Ave.
    Fresno, CA 93702

• If your cumulative GPA for your bachelor’s degree is below a 2.75 (4.0 scale), a letter of explanation is required.
  • If a master’s degree has already been attained, the GPA requirement is waived.
• A maximum of 12 units may be approved for transfer from other accredited (or equivalent) graduate programs and must be relevant to the program of study being undertaken.
• No course may be more than 10 years old at the time of completion of the IMAP.
• Reference Forms – Two references are required for the Individualized Master of Arts Program. The references should attest to your professional qualities and your academic qualifications, noting your ability to complete graduate-level work.
• Statement of Intent – Provide a written statement explaining your interest in the program, long-term goals and your experience in the field.
• Preliminary Proposed Course of Study – Applicants must prepare a preliminary proposal of study (two-three pages long) that includes their proposed objectives, a proposed concentration, a summary of their preliminary proposal of study and of their background for study in the proposed areas.
• Preliminary Program Interview – After submitting your application materials including transcripts, a representative will contact you to schedule an interview. During this meeting students should be prepared to discuss:
  • Objectives and purpose of the proposed study.
  • Area of concentration: Define the specific field of study within the broader objectives. Provide a tentative title that reflects academic interests.
  • Key questions: What are some of the key questions to explore? Identify some of the major areas (or subjects) in which to read. Are there particular writers to study or specific courses to take?
    • Qualifications and background: Describe qualifications or skills brought to the study to aid success in the program; for example, previous studies, work experiences, etc.
    • Culminating experience: What are your ideas about the nature or content of a thesis or project (required for all IMAP students)?
• Writing sample – Provide a short paper (one-two pages in length) showing proficiency to write at an academic level.
• International applicants must submit additional documentation including English Proficiency Score (TOEFL=minimum of 550 PBT or 79 iBT, IELTS=6.5), copy of passport, visa information and a statement of financial support.

View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure here.

Cost & Financial Aid

Tuition & Fees

Career Opportunities

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.

Career Development Happens Here