Masters of Social Science

The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) welcomes international students and has specific entry requirements for postgraduate programs. 

1. Academic Requirements: For admission to postgraduate programs at CU Denver, international students are typically required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent. This corresponds to approximately 75% and above.

2. English Language Proficiency: The accepted English language proficiency tests and their minimum score requirements are as follows:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is generally required, with no individual band (listening, reading, writing, speaking) score falling below 6.0.
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 80 on the Internet-based test (iBT) is typically required.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 60 is usually required.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 110 is generally required.

The University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) recognizes the importance of providing financial assistance to international students and offers various scholarships to support their education. 

1. International Freshman Scholarships: CU Denver offers scholarships specifically for international freshmen students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements. These scholarships are merit-based and awarded based on the students' high school GPA, standardized test scores, and other criteria. The university provides partial tuition scholarships, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of attending CU Denver.

2. International Merit Scholarships: CU Denver provides merit-based scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. The amounts awarded can vary and are renewable for up to four years for undergraduate students and up to two years for graduate students, depending on the specific scholarship.

3. International First-Year Student Scholarships: CU Denver offers scholarships to international first-year students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. These scholarships are renewable for up to four years and provide partial tuition coverage. The university considers factors such as high school GPA, standardized test scores, and other criteria when awarding these scholarships.

4. College/School-Specific Scholarships: Many of CU Denver's colleges and schools offer scholarships specific to their respective academic disciplines. These scholarships are available to international students pursuing undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, engineering, health sciences, arts and media, and more. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific scholarship and college/school.

5. Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship offered by CU Denver to a limited number of international undergraduate and graduate students. It is a highly competitive scholarship that recognizes exceptional academic achievements, leadership skills, and a commitment to global engagement. The scholarship provides significant financial support to recipients.

6. Other External Scholarships: In addition to CU Denver's scholarships, international students can explore external scholarships and funding opportunities. Various organizations, foundations, and governments offer scholarships specifically for international students studying in the United States. The university's Office of International Affairs provides resources and guidance to help students explore and apply for these external scholarships.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and award amounts may vary each year.

Graduates of the Master of Social Science program have diverse career opportunities in research, policy analysis, non-profit organizations, government agencies, education, and more.  

1. Research and Data Analysis: Graduates can work as researchers or data analysts in research institutions, think tanks, or government agencies. They can conduct social science research, analyze data, and contribute to the understanding of social issues.

2. Policy Analysis and Advocacy: Graduates can work in policy research organizations, government agencies, or non-profit organizations, analyzing social policies, evaluating their impact, and advocating for policy changes. They can contribute to social justice initiatives, policy development, and community advocacy.

3. Program Evaluation and Social Planning: Graduates can work in non-profit organizations or government agencies, conducting program evaluations, assessing social interventions, and contributing to social planning initiatives. They can work on projects related to community development, social services, or urban planning.

4. Social Services and Community Engagement: Graduates can work in social service organizations, community development agencies, or non-profit organizations, providing support to vulnerable populations, developing community programs, or engaging in community outreach and empowerment.

5. Education and Training: Graduates can pursue careers in education and training, working as instructors, trainers, or curriculum developers in educational institutions, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. They can contribute to social science education, professional development, or community education programs.

6. Market Research and Data Analytics: Graduates can work in market research firms, consulting companies, or corporate research departments, conducting consumer research, market analysis, and data-driven decision-making. They can apply their social science knowledge to understand consumer behavior, market trends, and societal influences on business strategies.

7. Human Resources and Organizational Development: Graduates can work in human resources departments or organizational development roles, applying their social science knowledge to foster diversity and inclusion, enhance employee satisfaction and productivity, and develop effective organizational strategies.

8. Public Administration and Government: Graduates can pursue careers in public administration, working in government agencies, policy-making bodies, or public service organizations. They can contribute to policy development, program management, or community engagement initiatives.

The Master of Social Science program at the University of Colorado Denver provides students with a solid foundation in social science theories, research methods, and analytical skills. It prepares graduates for a wide range of careers where a deep understanding of social issues and strong research capabilities are valued.