Switching MS Programs

When you apply to our MS Programs, you may choose and rank order the program(s) you wish to be considered for. If we admit you, it will be to a specific program, and that's the one you'll follow. However, this program may have been your second-choice and you want to change back into the program you originally picked as your first-choice. Or, after starting a program, circumstances change and you want to switch to a different program. Before you request to switch programs, make sure that the courses you have already taken fit into the program you are requesting. Courses that don't fit will not be accepted in the new program, and this may result in having to take courses beyond the 30 hours. Consult your advisor if you have questions about this.

How to apply to switch programs

Switches to other programs can only be approved at the same time that we are reviewing new applications to the MS programs, which means April and October. If you are already in a program, all you need to submit your request by the regular application due date (typically March 1st, and the second week of September). Your request must be in writing, addressed to the Chair of the Reading Department, and either mailed or hand-delivered to the Department. Make sure you get an acknowledgement that the Department has received your request. The request must include the following:
--a program plan for the program you are requesting, showing how courses from your current program (if any) map onto the new program.
--a letter which explains why you are making the request.

How your request is reviewed

In the interest of fairness, the Department reviews your request at the same time as it reviews new applicants for each of our MS programs. Your original application to the program, plus your current transcript, are included, along with your letter and accompanying materials (e.g., program plan marked up with courses already taken). You will be informed of the Department's decision about one month from the application date, at the same time as new applicants are informed. If your request is approved, we will notify you and you need to confirm the change by email to Linda Papa (LPapa@albany.edu) within 2 weeks. You then have 30 days to submit a letter of request to the Graduate Office, enclosing your application fee (see below--not all switches require a fee, but all require a request to the Graduate Office). If these deadlines are not met, permission to switch may be revoked. In other words, you can't get permission to switch, and then wait for two or more months before switching. If you do, you'll have to start the whole process over again.

Application fees may have to be paid
If a switch is requested and approved for programs within the MS
Literacy Specialist programs (B-6, B-12, 5-12), or between Childhood Ed and Early Childhood, there is no application fee. However, if you are switching between different certification programs (e.g., from Early Childhood to Literacy B-6), you have to pay the $75.00). If you have been approved for this type of switch, you have 30 days to submit a letter of request to the Graduate Office, enclosing your application fee, with a check made out to "The University at Albany." Otherwise, permission to switch may be revoked.