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OSR Master’s program

Frequently asked questions

How much total time will this take? How much time outside of class is required?

The OSR Master’s program requires a major commitment in time, dollars and energy. In addition to scheduled residential and weekend sessions, participants also have required readings, research, advisory meetings, individual preparation, and collaborative preparation meetings.

Past experience would indicate that the time commitment outside of regular class sessions could average from 2 to 5 days per month. A widely used formula for granting credit in higher education is two hours of class for every hour in class. For those employed full time, some preparation time outside of class may overlap with completion of work-related projects. Also, a phenomenon that has been observed in past program participants is that, as they progress through the program, they learn ways to be more efficient in their own personal learning. Although the OSR Master’s program is very demanding, all program commitments are manageable if the student is committed.

Are there prerequisites?

Yes. See admission requirements

What if I received my undergraduate degree outside the United States?

Applicants from outside the United States are encouraged to apply. If you are applying from outside the United States or have graduated from a non-U.S. institution, you should allow time for additional processing of your degree transcript. OSR engages a consultant with international experience to examine non-U.S. applications and advise OSR on acceptance. A small additional fee is charged for this.

What background does someone need if they're not an Organization Development practitioner? What fundamental, core skills are required?

Some participants enter the program with expertise in change management. Nevertheless, others who lack this specialized background will learn the basic concepts of OD within the first few sessions. The only fundamental or core skills needed are:

• an openness to learning about oneself,
• the willingness to learn from and with others, and
• the ability to apply what is learned by making choices about change in an organizational context.

Participants apply OSR learning in a variety of ways in many fields besides Organization Development.

Is there some way to get into the program if I don't have an undergraduate degree?

Unfortunately, no. In order for the OSR Master’s program to retain its standards and reputation, all participants must have a Bachelor's degree.

Can students opt to go through the program for just the diploma and not the graduate credit?

Some students who meet all entry requirements may not be interested in earning graduate credit and therefore wish merely to 'audit' the program. This is not possible, however, for two reasons:

• The literal meaning of an 'auditor' is one who comes only to 'hear' lectures. But the OSR Master’s program is highly experiential and requires full participation as a member of a learning community.
• Completion of learning projects and other degree requirements are an integral part of the OSR Master’s program. Merely listening to what is said during group sessions subverts the learning process and defeats the purpose of enrolling in the program.

How much time off from my job will I need to take? How will I get enough time off?

The schedule of meeting dates is published in advance and may be used as a basis for negotiating time away from work with one's employer. In addition to 22 months spaced over seven quarters, full participation in the program requires approximately 30 additional work days (M–F), including two residential weeks. Individual travel requirements may consume additional time off work. Many participants are able to gain the support of their employer so that these days are paid work days, just as if they were attending job-related training. Some participants are able to negotiate a reduced work week, such as working 40 hours over a four-day week, to allow for their heavy participation in the OSR Master’s program.

What if I fail a course?

Faculty are committed to supporting the self-directed learning process in students. If students are learning, it would be highly unusual for them to fail. OSR's retention rate is 95%, indicating that very few people do not complete the program. Of those who do not, most leave the program because of employment changes, job relocation, or for personal reasons.

Will this require a computer? What if my skills don't match what is required?

Although you do not need to own a computer, you must have regular access to one and have facility in word processing skills, internet usage, and email capability.

How many participants are needed for the OSR cohort?

OSR admits 36 participants in each cohort.