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. This policy defines clear expectations for applicants and supports a fair and holistic evaluation of each individual's qualifications for graduate study.

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 whose academic and professional goals align with the College’s mission of transforming lives through education. The graduate 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 are required to submit a completed application form to initiate the graduate admissions process. This application is available online at baker.edu/apply.

To support the application, applicants must provide an official transcript from the bachelor’s degree–granting institution demonstrating a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. Applicants transferring graduate coursework must also submit official transcripts from each institution where coursework was completed. Additional information regarding transcript requirements is outlined in the Baker College Student Handbook.

Optional Essay and Resume

While not required, applicants may submit an admissions essay and/or a resume to provide additional context regarding academic history, career goals, and preparation for graduate-level work. These materials may be particularly beneficial for applicants who:

• Are returning to graduate study after a significant break in enrollment
• Experienced academic challenges during undergraduate study
• Wish to highlight professional accomplishments or relevant experiences
• Would benefit from an early review of writing skills to support future academic success

English Language Proficiency

Applicants whose primary language is not English are required to demonstrate English proficiency through a standardized assessment such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Program-specific variations, waivers, or alternative assessments may be granted based on prior academic experience in English-speaking institutions, as determined by the College.

Graduate Program Admission Criteria

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution 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 considered for conditional admission if all other admissions requirements are met.

Admission to graduate programs is offered as either full or conditional status. Conditional admission is granted to applicants who meet most, but not all, admission criteria, and who are expected to fulfill outstanding requirements within a specified timeframe before or during initial enrollment.

Program-Specific Requirements

Some graduate programs have additional academic or professional prerequisites:

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Unencumbered RN license and a BSN or BS in Nursing from an accredited program.
• Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) – Bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.  Applicants with a GPA lower than 3.0, but with a 2.7 or higher GPA may still be considered for admittance (Admissions leadership will consult with the program director in these situations to reach an admissions decision).
• Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD) – Master’s degree with a GPA of 3.25 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – 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 provide accurate and complete information in all application materials. Misrepresentation or omission of required information may result in withdrawal of an admissions offer or other action in accordance with institutional policy.

5.0 Procedures

Application Process

The graduate admissions application process consists of the following steps:

1. Submit Application – Applicants must complete and submit the online graduate application available at baker.edu/apply.
2. Provide Official Transcripts – Applicants must arrange for official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities to be sent directly to Baker College.
3. Optional Supporting Documents – Applicants may upload a resume and/or an admissions essay to provide additional context regarding academic preparation, career goals, or professional experience.

Review Process

1. The Office of Admissions reviews applications on a rolling basis.
2. The Director of Admissions – Online, Graduate and the Vice President of Enrollment Management Services evaluate all submitted materials and render an admissions decision.
3. Faculty and program directors may be consulted for input when program-specific requirements apply.
4. Admissions decisions are communicated to applicants as one of the following:

• Admitted – Meets all admission criteria.
• Conditional Admit – Meets most criteria; admission is contingent upon completion of specified requirements within an established timeframe.
• Not Admitted – Does not meet admission criteria
  

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

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

7.0 Citations & Related Information

None