Frequently asked questions
What academic programs are offered at the Kalmanovitz School of Education?
A detailed list of all academic programs can be found on the programs of study page.
How can I request an application or catalog?
Please contact us at (925) 631-4700 or soereq@stmarys-ca.edu. You may also fill out and submit our online inquiry form.
How can I speak to someone about a particular program of study?
Please contact the appropriate person for your area of interest.
Do course credits from other institutions transfer to Saint Mary's?
Yes. We accept up to 6 semester units of current, directly applicable, post-baccalaureate coursework from an accredited institution as transfer units for a Master's Degree or Credential Program, if you've earned a grade of B or higher.
When is the application deadline?
We have rolling enrollment, you can apply throughout the year. Please apply at least 2 months before the term in which you wish to begin. Most students begin in the summer, fall, January or spring semesters (January Term is a 1-month, intensive academic experience focusing on a single course of study). The exceptions are the Educational Leadership Program Tier I, which only begins in the fall and spring, School Psychology, which only begins in the fall, and the Doctoral Program, which only begins in the summer.
Who are the faculty in the School of Education?
More than 95% of our full-time faculty hold doctoral degrees. Most of our part-time faculty are current or recent classroom teachers, counselors and administrators. All our faculty members are committed to using their knowledge, professional connections and personal attention to benefit our students.
Are all Saint Mary's students Catholic?
No. We welcome students of all backgrounds, beliefs and faith traditions. Just over half of our student body (graduate and undergraduate) is Catholic. The percentage of non-Catholics tends to be higher in the graduate programs.
What will my classes be like?
They will be intimate, for one thing! Our classes average just 21 students and encourage in-depth discussion and idea exchanges among students and professors.
Do you offer an Internship Credential? Yes. The internship teaching credential allows you to work full-time in a classroom while working towards your credential. State requirements include subject matter competency, meeting the U.S. Constitution requirement, (120) hours of instruction, and an offer of employment.
I work. How will I find time to pursue the program that interests me?
We offer full- and part-time options for many of our programs, and hold classes on evenings and weekends. Call (925) 631-4700 for more information about scheduling and format options in your program of choice.
How long does a master's degree program take to complete?
A Masters degree can take from 3 semesters to 2-3 years, depending on your program of study and whether you enroll as a part time or full time student.
What is the difference between a part- and full-time student?
A student who is registered for 9 units or more is considered full-time during the fall and spring terms. Students who wish to enroll in more than 12 units must have the permission of their advisor and program director. During January and summer terms 3-5 units is the normal workload, but students are allowed to register for up to 6 units in January and up to 10 units in summer. Additional units are discouraged and must be approved by the advisor or program director.
Can I audit a class?
Yes, on a space-available basis. You must file a Petition to Audit a Course form and receive approval from the instructor and the program director before registering. Auditors cannot take examinations or submit written work for evaluation, but may participate in class discussion. Students may not obtain credit by later challenging a course they have audited.
What is the mandatory health insurance requirement?
Saint Mary's College requires health and accident insurance for all students in the School of Education. Applicants must provide proof of health and accident insurance. If you don't currently have insurance and don't plan to secure insurance while enrolled you must complete and sign a waiver form. Acceptance will be delayed until proof of insurance or the signed, completed waiver form is in your file.
What is a master's degree with honors?
Master’s degrees may be awarded with honors to graduates with a grade point average of 3.85 or higher. Other professional qualifications will also be considered.
Does Saint Mary's offer job placement services?
A list of job websites is regularly updated for use by our students and alumni. California school districts currently accept copies of recommendation letters directly from teaching or counseling applicants, which alleviates the need for a placement file. For more information please contact our credential analyst at (925) 631-4727.
Listing of job websites (PDF)
