Graduate Admissions Policy (ADM 100-002)

1.0 Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the graduate admissions procedures and criteria at Baker College.  This policy ensures a clear, student-friendly, and inclusive admissions process that reflects the College’s commitment to educational access and academic excellence. It establishes transparent expectations for applicants and supports a fair and holistic evaluation of each individual’s potential for success in graduate studies.

2.0 Definitions

Conditional Status - A temporary admissions status assigned to applicants who have not yet fulfilled all prerequisites but have demonstrated the potential for graduate study.

Graduate Admissions - The process of applying for and being accepted into a graduate program at Baker College, including both master’s and doctoral programs.

Permanent Record - The official record maintained by Baker College that includes a student’s academic and enrollment history.

3.0 Scope

This policy applies to all applicants seeking admission to any graduate program at Baker College.  It includes application requirements, admission criteria, required documentation, and applies to staff involved in evaluating and processing graduate applications.

4.0 Policy Statement

Commitment to Inclusive Admissions

Baker College is committed to admitting students who align with our mission of transforming lives through education.  Our admissions process is inclusive and follows a nondiscrimination policy, ensuring equal access to education for all individuals, regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or pregnancy.

Eligibility and Documentation

Applicants should submit a completed application form to begin the graduate admissions process. This application is available online at baker.edu/apply.

To support their application, students should submit an official transcript from their bachelor’s degree-granting institution demonstrating a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. Students transferring in graduate coursework should also submit official transcripts from those institutions through which coursework was pursued.  For additional information, please refer to the Baker College Student Handbook.

Optional Essay and Resume

An admissions essay and resume are optional but may be submitted as supporting documents.  Applicants are encouraged to include an essay and/or resume if they:

• Are returning to graduate school after a significant break
• Had academic challenges during undergraduate study
• Want to share more about their goals and preparation for graduate school
• Would benefit from early review of their writing skills to support future academic success

English Language Proficiency

Applicants whose primary language is not English may be asked to demonstrate English proficiency through standardized assessments such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Requirements may vary by program.  Waivers or alternatives may be considered on a case-by-case basis for applicants with academic experience in English-speaking institutions.

Graduate Program Admission Criteria

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution as recognized by the American Council on Education.  Applicants with degrees from nationally accredited institutions, such as those accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, may be admitted under conditional status if all other admissions requirements are met.

Admission to graduate programs is offered as either full or conditional status. Conditional status is granted to applicants who meet most—but not all—admission criteria.  Students are encouraged to fulfill outstanding conditions before matriculation. Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis.

Program-Specific Requirements

Some graduate programs have additional academic or professional prerequisites:

• Master of Science in Nursing - Must hold an unencumbered RN license and a BSN or BS in Nursing from an accredited program
• Master of Science in Occupational Therapy - Bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership - Master’s degree with a GPA of 3.25 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• Doctor of Business Administration – MBA or related master’s degree with a GPA of 3.25 or higher; five years of professional experience in business or management recommended

Accuracy of Information

Applicants are expected to submit accurate and truthful information.  Providing false or misleading information during the admissions process may result in denial of admission or dismissal from the College.

5.0 Procedures

 Application Process

• Submit a completed online application at baker.edu/apply
• Provide official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
• Optional: Upload a resume and/or essay to provide further context or support your application

Review Process

• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis
• The Director of Admissions – Online, Graduate and the Vice President of Enrollment Management Services will review all materials submitted and render an admissions decision
• Faculty and program directors may be consulted as needed
• Admission decisions include: Admitted, Admitted with a Director Decision of Conditional Admit, or Not Admitted

6.0 Responsibilities

Applicant

• Complete the online application and submit required documentation
• Verify that all submitted materials are accurate and reflect academic history

Office of Admissions

• Maintain and process graduate application materials
• Review documentation, verify eligibility, and issue timely decisions
• Coordinate with faculty and program leadership when needed

Graduate Admissions Committee

• Support review processes for programs with selective admissions or additional screening
• Provide input on conditional admissions and academic preparedness

Enrollment Specialist

• Ensures that all application materials are complete and that applicants meet the minimum admission criteria.

7.0 Citations & Related Information

None