Welcome from the Dean

I'm pleased you're considering study at Ithaca College. Whether you're interested in graduate school or continuing professional education, choosing the right program for you is important. Ithaca College has a long and rich tradition in working with students looking to further their education, be it to bolster your current career with an advanced degree or a professional certificate, or to plot a new course entirely. Our faculty have the credentials, the interest, and time to devote to mentoring. Their commitment to teaching excellence will give you the confidence and competence to move forward.

I have been affiliated with Ithaca College for nearly 30 years -- as a graduate student, an alumni, a faculty member, and now an administrator. Throughout my career I have had the good fortune to be able to apply what I learned from Ithaca to create innovative instructional programs.  I'm thrilled to continue that at my alma mater, an institution with a deep commitment to excellence.  At Ithaca we have created an intellectual environment in which a close-knit group of similarly directed colleagues -- both fellow students and internationally recognized faculty -- works with you to help clarify your vision, guide your study, nurture your talent, and creatively and broadly help to shape your future.

Whether your priority is gaining professional credentials and certifications, breaking new ground in the arts, or augmenting your experience and résumé with a graduate assistantship, consider Ithaca College. Since 1943, when we offered our first master's degrees, Ithaca has awarded nearly 5,000 graduate diplomas to curious, dedicated, and talented professionals. We offer master's degrees in music, physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, health and physical education, sport management, communications, exercise and sport sciences, business administration, and adolescence and early childhood education.

So consider your needs, your boldest dreams, and your possible future. Feel free to contact the chair of the program that interests you and explore whether Ithaca College offers the best path to your destination. We encourage you to visit us, get a feel for our distinctive brand of education, check out our outstanding facilities, and explore our beautiful campus.

If you value hands-on learning in an intimate, student-centered environment, where dedicated and acclaimed faculty mentor your personal and professional development, Ithaca just might be the place for you.

Rob Gearhart
Associate Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies
Director of Online Learning Initiatives