Admissions & Tuition
How to Apply To WCIU
1. Begin Your Application Online
Get started by clicking “Apply Now” at the top right of this website.
2. Get Approved For Admission
Once you complete your application, it is reviewed by our admissions board and a decision will be made.
3. Start Your Program
Start classes towards a degree that will create change in the communities you serve.
M.A. Admission Requirements
An application to WCIU requires the following from prospective students:
✓ Have a bachelor’s degree earned from an appropriately accredited institution as evidenced by submitting an official transcript
Prospective students must have a bachelor’s degree or international equivalent from an accredited university as evidenced by submitting an official transcript from said university.
**FOREIGN TRANSCRIPT EVALUATION:** WCIU requests applicants to provide official transcripts in English or with notarized translation. Students who are unable to provide official transcripts in English are required to go through transcripts evaluation by a member agency of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The University reserves the right to determine the acceptability and relevance of degrees and credits earned at other institutions.
✓ MEET THE APPROPRIATE ENGLISH REQUIREMENTS
Prospective students whose native language is not English and who have not earned a degree from an appropriately accredited institution where English is the principal language of instruction must demonstrate college-level proficiency in English through one of the following for admission:
a. Duolingo English Test score of at least 105
b. TOEFL score of at least 80 (for the internet-based test)
c. IELTS score of at least 6.5
d. A transcript indicating completion of at least 30 semester credit hours with an average grade of “B” or higher at an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Secretary of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or accepted foreign equivalent that is listed in the International Handbook of Universities where the language of instruction was English.
✓ ONLINE APPLICATION FORM
Students must complete the online application. This can be done by clicking “Apply Now”.
✓ A Government-Issued Photo Identification
WCIU requests a certified copy of a government-issued ID during the admissions process. As our education is largely online, this is necessary to validate who the prospective student is. WCIU collects students' photo government-issued identification during the admissions process and uses multiple means to verify student identity throughout enrollment. Students access the college management system using a secure login and passcode. Additionally, students participate in synchronous discussions with other students and faculty bi-monthly. During these bi-monthly discussions, faculty compare student attendance against the government-issued identifications on file.
✓ A Professional Reference
Identify a professional reference on the application who will need to fill out an online reference form. This will also be used to confirm the applicant’s agency membership (to determine if they are eligible for the 50% discount on the Foundations of Biblical Faith Course).
✓ Meet the Technology Requirements
Reliable High Speed Internet (cable, DSL, etc.)
Windows Vista/7/8/10 or comparable Macintosh/Linux operating system
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Word Processor (MS Word recommended)
Personal Email Address (Gmail or similar recommended)
✓ Official Transcripts
We prefer to receive official transcripts as soon as possible. During the application phase, WCIU can use an unofficial transcript to initially process candidacy. Candidates must be aware, however, that final acceptance and enrollment can only happen after WCIU has received and evaluated an official transcript.
Ph.D. Admission Requirements
To be admitted into the PhD in Global Development Program the following requirements must be met:
✓ Completed PhD online application
Students must complete the online application. This can be done by clicking “Apply Now”.
✓ Two references to provide letters of recommendation discussing the applicant’s academic and professional abilities.
✓ A master’s degree earned from an appropriately accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3
(Evidenced by submitting an official transcript). *
Students must earn a master’s degree from an appropriately accredited institution. If you have questions about valid institutions, please feel free to contact us.
✓ An application portfolio consisting of the following documents:
a. A well-written essay on the applicant’s academic learning objectives (see the online application form for more details).
b. A master’s thesis
(if the applicant’s master’s program did not require a master’s thesis, one of the following is acceptable) :
a graduate-level research paper,
a research report for a project in which the applicant participated, or
a paper presented at an academic or professional conference.
✓ Other supporting material that the applicant wishes to submit for consideration.
Identify a professional reference on the application who will need to fill out an online reference form.
✓ English Requirement
Prospective students whose native language is not English and who have not earned a degree from an appropriately accredited institution where English is the principal language of instruction must demonstrate college-level proficiency in English through one of the following for admission:
Duolingo English Test score of at least 110
TOEFL score of at least 90 (for the internet-based test)
IELTS score of at least 6.5
A transcript indicating completion of at least 30 semester credit hours with an average grade of “B” or higher at an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Secretary of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or accepted foreign equivalent that is listed in the International Handbook of Universities where the language of instruction was English.
✓ A certified copy of government-issued photo identification
(Uploaded to application)
✓ Technology & Computer Requirements
(see the WCIU Catalog for more information)
We prefer to receive official transcripts as soon as possible. During the application phase, WCIU can use an unofficial transcript to initially process candidacy. Candidates must be aware, however, that final acceptance and enrollment can only happen after WCIU has received and evaluated an official transcript.
* Foreign Transcript Evaluation: WCIU requests applicants to provide official transcripts in English, or with notarized translation. Students that are unable to provide official transcripts in English are required to go through transcripts evaluation by a member agency of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The University reserves the right to determine the acceptability and relevance of degrees and credits earned at other institutions.
Tuition & Fees
Fees are subject to change at the discretion of the University. These projected costs only include those charged by WCIU for its services and do not include additional costs associated with pursuing your degree such as, but not limited to, personal internet services, travel costs, etc. All costs are calculated in U.S. Dollars.
Tiered Tuition
WCIU offers a tiered tuition rate that adjusts for the economic differences across the world. The tiers are based on the United Nations Human development scale which ranks a country’s development on a scale of Very High, High, Medium and Low. The tuition rate is determined by the place a person is living at the time of application.
*Citizens of countries in the Very High Tier living overseas but being paid in home currency will be charged at the Very High Tier.
*The tuition fee will be paid to WCIU when the student registers for a course. Tuition will remain fixed for a given academic year but may change from one academic year to the next.
| MASTERS LEVEL DEGREE PROGRAMS |
COST |
|---|---|
| Very High | $465 per unit (i.e. 3 units = $1,395) |
| High | $372 per credit (i.e. 3 units = $1,116) |
| Medium | $279 per credit (i.e. 3 units = $837) |
| Low | $186 per credit (i.e. 3 units = $558) |
| PhD LEVEL DEGREE PROGRAMS |
COST |
|---|---|
| Very High | $600 per credit (3 credits x $600 = $1,800) |
| High | $480 per credit (3 credits x $480 = $1,440) |
| Medium | $360 per credit (3 credits x $360 = $1,080) |
| Low | $240 per credit (3 credits x $240 = $720) |
* All tuitions rates are in U.S. Dollars
Additional Fees
| TYPE | COST |
|---|---|
| Online Library Access Fee
WCIU's online library, Latourette Library, allows students access to required reading and textbooks. Subject to change anytime. |
$50 per term |
| Books
Most of the M.A. program course readings are accessible electronically in course lessons or through our online library catalog. However, students may need to purchase additional books (either hard copy or Kindle e-book) for the completion of course requirements. Many of these books will be used in multiple courses throughout the program. Students may contact reference@wciu.edu for further information regarding textbook costs. |
$480 - $960 + shipping (Approximate Total For Entire Program) |
| Graduation Fee
Covers the cost of a diploma and an official transcript delivered to the student's address. |
$50 |
Optional Fees
| ADDITIONAL SERVICES
|
CATALOG PAGE
|
COST |
|---|---|---|
| Course Extension Fee | 32 | $50 |
| Re-admissions Fee | 34 | $50 |
| Dissertation Continuation Fee (applies to PhD progams) | $200 per term | |
| Standard Transcript Request (US/Canada): $15 (mailed within 10 business days of date of 35 $15 payment). | 35 | $15 |
| Expedited Transcript Request (US/Canada): $35 (mailed within 3 business days of date of 35 $35 payment). An additional $25 for postage will be charged if you request express mailing. | 35 | $35 |
| Standard Transcript Request (International): $25 (mailed within 10 business days of date of payment). | 35 | $25 |
| Expedited Transcript Request (International): $40 (mailed within 3 business days of date of payment). An additional $35 for postage will be charge if you request priority mailing (6-10 business days). An additional $65 for postage will be charged if you request express shipping (3-5 business days). | 35 | $40 |
| Student ID Card | 53 | $30 |
The costs and fees for additional services are nonrefundable.
Questions about
Financial Aid?
Email: admissions@wciu.edu
Phone: 626-398-2223
FAQs
Do I have to come to Pasadena to study with WCIU?
No, we do not require our students to go to Pasadena at any time during their degree program.
Does WCIU have a bachelor’s program?
No, WCIU does not offer a bachelor’s program.
Does WCIU offer scholarships?
WCIU, at its own discretion, may award scholarships to qualified students. To be considered for a scholarship, fill out the WCIU scholarship form. Please contact studentservices@wciu.edu for more information.
How long does it take to complete your MA program?
Our MA program ranges from a minimum of 2 years to a maximum of 6 years.
How much does it cost to study at WCIU?
The MA in Development Studies costs $17,860.
What are the requirements to study at WCIU?
Complete and submit the online application.
Have a bachelor's degree or international equivalent from an accredited university.
Provide a government-issued photo ID (Driver's license, passport, or national document).
Submit a copy of official transcripts (these must be mailed to WCIU directly from previous colleges or universities).
TOEFL or IELTS score (for applicants whose first language is not English).
Technology and computer requirements. View the full admissions requirements above.
Can I take a course as a visitor?
Yes! Please refer to our Visiting Student Policy for more information!
