International Graduate Studies Preparation Program

Looking for an Excellent Pre-Masters or Pre-Doctorate Program?

Higher education at the graduate level (Masters and Doctoral Degrees) in a top U.S. university is considered by many international students a necessity for achieving their academic and career goals.

Navigating admission to these advanced degree programs, however, may be challenging for those unfamiliar with U.S. academic culture. Despite years of preparation in study and work in their home environments, many promising pre-graduate students are unsure of how and where to apply to U.S. graduate schools. Many have their applications rejected not because they lack the academic qualifications, but because they lack the specific skills needed for being selected.

University of California Irvine Extension's International Graduate Studies Preparation Program (IGSPP) prepares international students to meet admission requirements for graduate school. This new program also develops the academic, professional, and communication skills students will need to succeed in graduate studies in the United States.

Benefits of IGSPP

• Gain confidence and fluency in studying and using English in an academic environment and in everyday living.
• Earn one or more post-baccalaureate professional certificates in fields such as Business Administration; Marketing; Communication Systems Design Engineering; International Business Operations and Management; International Finance; International Tourism & Hotel Management; and Teaching English as a Foreign Language.
• Strengthen your resume with unpaid internship work experience in a company of your choice, including multinational corporations, or for TEFL participants, a valuable teaching practicum.
  
• Receive maximum support under ideal conditions, including one-on-one advising from a qualified, experienced academic advisor; support with research guidance and professional direction; and assistance with standardized test and application preparation.
  
• Attend a 20-hour university skills course entitled American & Academic Culture Course, which lays the foundation for developing critical thinking skills and provides strategies for academic success and cultural awareness.
  
• Make lasting friendships with other potential incoming international grad students.
  
• Become comfortable with the UC Irvine campus, its abundant resources, and its academic rigor.
  
• Join social events and excursions with other international and American students.