Bachelor of Science* FAQ
What degree will I receive?
NGS offers two Bachelor of Science Degree Completion programs: Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management (BSQSM) and Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security (BSHS). Specializations include but are not limited to Health Systems, Environmental Quality Management, and Homeland Security.
Is the National Graduate School a business school?
Yes. NGS is an accredited, not-for-profit, business school whose graduates achieve tangible results before graduation.
Suppose I don’t have a business background or business degree?
A business background is not necessary to succeed in this program. Our graduates come from diverse backgrounds: science, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, service, biomedical, accounting, DoD, USCG, etc.
How long will it take to complete the program?
Twelve months. Graduates say they appreciate being able to finish their degree in a workable timeframe.
What makes this program unique?
An emphasis on tangible, financial results in real time. The program provides general, contemporary knowledge for flexibility through systems-based quality, team-based projects and practical applications.
Is The National Graduate School accredited?
Yes, by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEAS&C), the same accreditors for Harvard and MIT. NEAS&C may be contacted at cihe@neasc.org or 781-271-0022. In addition, DoD and USCG installations only allow accredited schools on their sites.
If I’m transferred or temporarily move, what happens?
If it’s a temporary move, faculty members work with you on independent study. If it’s permanent, we devise a tailored plan or alert you when the next cohort begins.
When do classes meet?
Onsite classes meet evenings or weekends to accommodate working adults. Online programs delivered through the NGS Portal have set deadlines for assignment deliverables.
What are the admission requirements?
We respond to every applicant individually. In general:
- Associate degree transcript or at least 60 cr. equivalent from an accredited institution meeting General Education Core requirements. The accreditation must be recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Association (CHEA). An official High School transcript is required for those submitting transcripts of at least 60 credits without an associate degree.;
- two letters of recommendation
- work or military experience (résumé)
- Personal statements regarding commitment to achieving tangible results;
- Access to and familiarity with computers (including the Internet);
Contact Admissions before you apply if you do not have an Associate’s degree.
Can I apply even if I do not have my Associate’s degree?
Yes. Before completing the NGS application, NGS will review each student’s official transcripts showing at least 60 or more college-level credits for appropriate lower-level requirements. Students without an Associate’s degree must submit their official high school transcript.
What is the Experiential Learning Portfolio?
It is a compilation of the student’s experiences in work, training, volunteer, and other non-academic activities that qualify for the assignment of upper college-level credit. In essence, it is a student’s autobiography.
Do I take final exams?
No. Students complete an individual or team work-related business project (BBP).
What are the requirements for graduation?
- Satisfactorily complete the bachelor completion program of study with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0
- No grade lower than a “D”
- Receive no more than 2 grades that are “D”
- Have an associate degree or at least 60 cr. equivalent meeting 30 cr. General Education Core requirements.
- Complete 15 upper level transfer credits from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Association (CHEA)
- Total credits equal to 120 cr.
- Be fully accepted
- Have successfully completed the Bachelor’s Research Project
- All tuition and fees must be paid in full
*Not available in Massachusetts