Duke Environmental Leadership Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Academic/Administrative | Admissions | Financial

Academic/Administrative

How is the DEL-MEM different from the Senior Professional Program (SPP) MEM?

Both the DEL Program and Senior Professional Program target working professionals with a minimum of five years of experience, and result in the same MEM degree. However, the structure and content of the programs are quite different. The DEL-MEM is a two-year, 30-credit program that emphasizes interdisciplinary and global themes, strategic approaches to environmental management, communication and effective leadership. Coursework is completed through a combination of weeklong place-based sessions and online learning.

The SPP students spend one, preferably two, semesters at Duke enrolled in regular graduate courses. Students can choose a specialized track of study. For tracks, click here. The remaining 15 or more units required may be earned through intensive courses, independent study and research, and a master’s project. Candidates have five years from the date of acceptance to complete the required 30 credits.

Can I transfer graduate credits from other institutions?

Generally, no. Credit from other institutions may be considered on a case-by-case basis, however acceptance of transfer credits is unlikely. If credits are transferred, this will not reduce the tuition, as the rate is a flat fee for the entire program.

How accessible are the faculty online?

Faculty/student contact will be comparable to that of the on-campus MEM program. In addition to weekly office hours, faculty monitor class and group bulletin board discussions and respond to emails on a regular basis. Availability of faculty varies, however you can expect that, on average, faculty will respond within 24 to 48 hours.

How will the online courses differ from the campus-based courses?

The Nicholas School's online courses maintain the same rigor and academic standards as its on-campus courses. Course content, texts, requirements, assignments, and class participation are comparable for online and on-campus courses; however, online learning requires that students have strong writing skills, are comfortable using computers and commonly used software programs, are committed to being active course participants and have disciplined work habits, effective time management skills and can work both alone and collaboratively.

Can projects be done that are directly related to my current position?

Yes. Through individual and group coursework, as well as your master’s project, you will pursue real-life case studies involving problems and solutions directly related to your current position.

What can I specialize in?

The DEL-MEM focuses on interdisciplinary and global themes, strategic approaches to environmental management, communication and effective leadership. An area of specialty is up to each student’s discretion and can be pursued through individual and group coursework, independent studies and the master’s project.

Do I have to attend all of the place-based sessions?

Yes, attendance at all five of the place-based sessions is required.

Can I complete the degree at my own pace?

No, the DEL-MEM is a two-year program that follows a semester format. Within the courses, there will be some flexibility in terms of completing the coursework, however most assignments will have set deadlines.

Can I use my own laptop during the program instead of the one that the program provides?

Using the laptop provided by the program is strongly recommended because technical support is simplified due to the common platform shared across the program. No other hardware is supported by the IT Department. In the event a repair is needed on a Duke laptop, loaner laptops can be express mailed.

How do I get my textbooks and course materials?

For the most part, textbooks and course materials will be provided to you, and included in your tuition. There may be limited supplementary resources that you need to purchase, depending on the course.

As a Duke student, will I have access to the library?

Yes, as a Duke student, you will have remote access to the library and any other resources generally afforded to on-campus students.

What type of internet access do I need to participate?

You will need to arrange network access with your local internet service provider (ISP), and we strongly encourage students to arrange for broadband access to the internet via a cable modem, DSL, or a satellite connection. Relying on a dial-up ISP is likely to put you at a disadvantage in your coursework due to the slower connection speed. We cannot provide support for your network connection nor can we help you with any home networking equipment such as firewalls, routers, or switches.

Is this a degree program only, or can I take the courses individually?

The full-semester online courses are offered only to students pursuing a degree. However, you can take stand-alone courses through the Executive Education program. For a list of upcoming courses, please click here.

Admissions

How much do I need to know about computers to succeed in the DEL-MEM program?

Familiarity with web-based applications, word processing software and e-mail applications is necessary. Your Duke laptop will have all the software necessary for successful program completion. The IT orientation during the first on-campus session will introduce you to the programs and packages pre-installed on the laptop.

What "type" of student are you looking for?

The admissions committee considers the following in the selection process:

• Five years of relevant work experience (required to apply)
• Evidence of leadership potential and an established background in fields directly related to the environment
• Self-motivation and commitment to learn at a distance
• A working knowledge of personal computers for word processing and data analysis
• An undergraduate degree from an accredited four-year college or university
• Written sponsorship from employer
• Proficiency in English

Is the GRE required?

No. We use a diagnostic test in lieu of the GRE. The diagnostic test is a 90-minute online test comprised of one timed essay and two multi-part data interpretation questions. You will receive additional information about the test upon submission of an online application form.

How important are undergraduate grades in the overall application?

We consider each application in its entirety and take into consideration both educational and professional achievements.

Financial

What is the cost of the program?

For the class entering in the summer of 2007, tuition is a flat fee of $53,200* for four semesters. Students are billed on a semester basis in four equal payments of $13,300*.

Tuition includes books and other class materials as well as a required technology fee. The technology fee includes a laptop computer and technology support. Tuition also covers various Duke student fees. Tuition does not include travel to and from campus, lodging, or meals during the place-based sessions.

*Tuition listed above is based on the 07-08 academic year. Tuition is expected to increase slightly in 08-09. As soon as fees are determined, updated figures will be posted.

What is NOT included in the program tuition fee?

Tuition does not include travel to and from campus, lodging or meals during the on-campus sessions.

What are my financial aid options?

The DEL-MEM Program does not currently award scholarships or grants to students. However, financial aid is available through various student loan programs to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Students requesting financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For more information, visit www.fafsa.ed.gov. Private loans are also offered through institutions such as Sallie Mae, Citibank and Bank of America.

How will I be billed for the tuition?

After being accepted, you will be required to pay a deposit of $400 to reserve your spot. You will be billed for the first semester tuition prior to matriculation, with a deduction for the deposit you have already paid. Tuition for the subsequent terms is due prior to the beginning of each term.

Additional questions?
Contact our office at del@nicholas.duke.edu or (919) 613-8082.