Graduate Admissions

Performance-Based Graduate Admissions

Central is implementing a new Performance-Based Graduate Admissions (PBGA) pathway, ideal for adult learners, such as mid-career professionals whose experience prepares them for graduate study — even if their earlier academics were in an unrelated field. The PBGA pathway is only offered within select majors and features a streamlined application process. Once accepted, students must enroll in prescribed classes for the first semester.

At a glance:

During the admissions and onboarding process you will: 

  1. Submit a streamlined version of the graduate admissions application
  2. Submit only your Proof of Degree Transcript from your bachelor's degree-granting institution
  3. Enroll in courses designated by your faculty advisors
    1. At the end of your first semester, if your pathway GPA is 3.0 or higher, you will matriculate into your program
    2. At the end of your first semester, if your pathway GPA is 2.99 or less, you may be dismissed 

The Performance-Based Graduate Admissions pathway is available for: 

  • Applied Linguistics - Language Policy & Planning, MA
  • Applied Linguistics - TESOL, MA
  • Biomolecular Sciences, MS
  • Construction Management, MS
  • Criminal Justice, MS
  • English - Hybrid/Online Track for Teachers, MA
  • English - Literary Studies Track, MA
  • Geography, MS
  • Geography: Global Sustainability, MS
  • International Studies, MS
  • Physical Education - Exercise Science, MS
  • Physical Education - Teaching Physical Education, MS
  • Strategic Communication Online, MS
  • Strategic Communication, MS

PBGA pathway students will not receive merit scholarships and may not work as a Graduate Assistant, Graduate Intern, or Student Worker until the first-semester pathway is complete. Applicants who might qualify for our CSU-Alum course must complete one full-time semester after they complete the first-semester pathway before we can honor the free class.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Performance-Based Pathway, contact us at 860-832-2278, graduateadmissions@ccsu.edu, or set up a one-on-one appointment here.