About

Welcome to the School of Graduate Studies and Research

The Mission

The mission of The School of Graduate Studies and Research is to enhance the success of graduate students and ensure the quality of all graduate programs at the University. The Graduate School provides the institutional perspective on graduate education, serves as the central organizational unit for graduate studies, and provides administrative support to graduate programs, faculty, and students. The Graduate School also promotes scholarship, research and professional development among graduate students and faculty.

Our Goals

The overall goal of graduate education at Norfolk State University is to provide advanced, discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and perspectives which prepare graduates to assume leadership roles and contribute to a profession, discipline or field. Master's degree programs build upon the foundation of undergraduate education and provide advanced knowledge, specialized skills, methodologies, and opportunities for independent learning. Doctoral degree programs provide the highest level of preparation for leadership roles and careers in teaching, research, and professional practice.

Our Programs

The University offers seventeen master's degree programs housed in the Colleges of Liberal Arts, Science and Technology and in the Schools of Social Work and Education. Each master's degree program consists of a coherent program of study which includes core and concentration coursework, electives, seminars, and other educational experiences, such as practicums, theses and creative scholarly projects.

The University offers three doctoral degree programs in Materials Science and Engineering, Psychology, and Social Work. Doctoral programs include core and concentration coursework, comprehensive and/or qualifying examinations, advanced research coursework, and preparation and defense of a dissertation. The aim of doctoral education is to prepare leaders who are grounded in the knowledge, theories and best practices of their disciplines and professions.

Graduates are expected to demonstrate competence and expertise in their fields, a global perspective, and the ability to engage in both independent scholarship and interdisciplinary collaboration in knowledge development.