In today's turbulent economic times, many people are returning to college for graduate degrees to bolster their professional credentials and increase opportunities for career advancement. Many others are returning to school for degrees to learn new skills as they switch careers into such fields as nursing and education. "Gaining personal as well as professional enrichment has always been a motivation for the students enrolling in our graduate programs," says Marianne Gumpper, Fairfield University's director of graduate and continuing studies admission. "Now, more than ever, people are recognizing the value of a graduate degree to help them achieve their personal and professional goals."

Fairfield University offers 35 graduate programs and the University will host two public Graduate Information Sessions in April where prospective students will be able to meet deans and faculty and learn details about the many features and benefits of master's programs and admission criteria. Representatives from Fairfield's Financial Aid office will also be on hand to provide important information on the many ways to finance a graduate education. Both Graduate Information Sessions will be held on campus at the Kelley Center from 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.

The event held on Wednesday, April 1 will feature information about 17 master's degrees offered by the Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions. Faculty will be on hand to discuss programs in applied psychology, community and school counseling, teacher certification, education technology, marriage and family therapy, school psychology, special education and TESOL/bilingual education.

On Tuesday, April 7, the Information Session will highlight 18 other graduate programs offered in business (MBA, finance, taxation and accounting) American studies, engineering (electrical and computer, software, mechanical and management of technology) mathematics, nursing (nurse anesthesia, family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, clinical nurse leader) and two of the university's newest graduate programs; the MFA in creative writing and M.A. in communication.

To RSVP for the events or more graduate program information, go to http://www.fairfield.edu/grad or call (203) 254-4184, toll-free (866) 333-8648.

Contact: Marianne Gumpper
(203) 254-4000, Ext. 2908

Posted On: 03-12-2009 10:03 AM

Volume: 41 Number: 243