International Graduate STEM Programs

International Graduate STEM Programs
NOTICE:
Classes canceled today due to weather conditions. Check Blackboard for communication from your instructors.
Request Info
Academics
International Graduate STEM Programs
International Graduate STEM Programs
Learn. Work. Thrive.
Building a path to Success
Why choose SBU's Graduate STEM Programs?
Southwest Baptist University (SBU) delivers exceptional graduate STEM education through
cutting-edge programs, including but not limited to MS degrees in Computer Science,
Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, and Data Science, specifically designed
for international F-1 students seeking career success in the United States. Our rigorous
academic programs provide flexible learning opportunities while ensuring students
receive comprehensive, hands-on educational experiences. SBU enhances career readiness
through valuable internship opportunities that provide real-world industry experience
and professional networking. With dedicated international student support, international
scholarships for merit students, and a commitment to academic excellence, SBU provides
the superior education and career preparation that international students need to
excel in today's competitive American job market. Our graduates are well-prepared
to meet industry demands and advance their careers in high-growth sectors.
REQUEST INFORMATION
APPLY TODAY PHD
APPLY TODAY MASTERS
1 Visa
Eligible
Stem Programs
The following programs are also CPT and OPT eligible.
Students who complete programs marked with "*" will also receive an AWS Certificate
upon completion.
PhD Programs
PhD in Technology
in Data Science^
PhD in Technology
in Artificial Intelligence^
PhD in Technology
in Management Science^
Master's Programs
Master of Science
in Artificial Intelligence
(STEM)
Master of Science
in Computer Science
(STEM)
Master of Science
in Data Science
(STEM)
Master of Science
in IT Management
(STEM)
Master of Science
in Management Science
(STEM)
Master of Science
in Information Technology
(STEM)
MBA
in Data Analytics
(STEM)
^ - Note: PhD programs pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission. Applications
are being accepted, but students may not enroll until approval is received.
Total Estimated Costs
Master of Science 30-credit programs
Without Scholarship:
$20,847
With Scholarship:
$15,405
STEM Master's Cost summary
Compare
Tuition Plans
With Scholarship
Without Scholarship
Tuition
$450
$585
Technology Fee Per Credit
$30
$30
Textbook Fee Per Credit
$30
$30
CPT Fee
$0
$0
Annual Program Estimated Cost
$7,703
$10,174
Total Program Estimated Cost:
$15,405
$20,348
*International students accepted into an MS STEM program are eligible to receive a
scholarship.
Total Estimated Costs
PhD 60-credit programs
With Scholarship:
$38,100
Without Scholarship:
$48,600
(plus dissertation course fees)
STEM Phd Cost summary
Compare
Tuition Plans
With Scholarship
Without Scholarship
Tuition Per Credit
$575
$750
Technology Fee Per Credit
$30
$30
Textbook Fee Per Credit
$30
$30
CPT Fee
$0
$0
Dissertation Course Fee (x4)
$500
$500
Annual Program Estimated Cost
$9,525
$12,150
Total Program Estimated Cost:
$38,100
$48,600
International students accepted into a PhD STEM program are eligible to receive a
scholarship. Dissertation course fees ($500 per dissertation course) are in addition
to
totals
above. Tuition applies to all three PhD programs
Contact Information
Joshua Behnken
International Student Coordinator
Email:
joshua.behnken@sbuniv.edu
Levi Fox
Designated School Official (DSO)
Email:
lfox@sbuniv.edu
Michelle Driscoll
Principal Designated School Official (PDSO)
Email:
michelle.driscoll@sbuniv.edu
Upcoming SBU Worldwide Start Dates
May 11, 2026
Apply by:
May 4, 2026
June 8, 2026
Apply by:
June 1, 2026
August 17, 2026
Apply by:
August 10, 2026
Student Testimonial Video
Important Government Info
The Department of Homeland Security has established a resource website with frequently
asked questions, forms, and other information to help international students complete
all requirements for studying in the United States. You can access those resources
at the link below.
Study in the States Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions
1. What are the admissions requirements?
We have a streamlined six-stage process for admission at SBU (
Download PDF
here
Step 1: Submit SBU STEM Application
Complete and submit your online International Graduate STEM Application through our
admissions portal.
Step 2: Document Submission
Required documents vary by student type:
New SEVIS International Student (First-time US students):
$22,450 proof of funding before scholarship awards
Unofficial transcripts of last degree earned
Clear copy of passport (identification page only)
English proficiency test scores
Transfer SEVIS International Students (Current F-1 visa holders):
$22,450 proof of funding before scholarship awards
Unofficial transcripts of last degree earned
Clear copy of passport (identification page only)
English proficiency test scores
Current visa documentation (recommended for faster processing)
Current or previous I-20 (helps with issuing I-20)
Step 3: Admission Decision
Applications are reviewed within 24 hours of receiving all required documents.
Step 4: Pre-I-20 Requirements
New International Students:
Financial Affidavit Form
Intent to Enroll Form
Transfer Students:
Financial Affidavit Form
Intent to Enroll Form
SEVIS Transfer Request (coordinated with your current university's DSO)
Step 5: I-20 Issuance
I-20 documents are issued within 24 hours of completing Stage 4 requirements.
Step 6: Enrollment Complete
Final enrollment includes official transcript submission, course registration, and
IT system setup.
2. Do I need to show proof of funding?
Yes, financial documentation is required during Step 2 of the application process
before admission decisions are made.
For the 2025-26 academic year, students must demonstrate $22,450 USD in available
funds annually. This amount covers estimated tuition, materials fees, and living expenses.
Students receiving the maximum scholarship award of $4,050 need to demonstrate $18,400
in available funds ($22,450 - $4,050 = $18,400).
Acceptable financial documents include:
Bank statements (dated within the last 6 months)
Sponsor letters with supporting financial documentation
Scholarship award letters
For PhD program students:
The annual funding requirement will be provided upon application review. PhD students
should budget approximately $9,525 per year (with scholarship) for tuition and fees,
plus living expenses. Contact your enrollment counselor for the exact proof of funding
amount.
3. When will I be admitted?
Students will be considered for admission once they submit all Stage 2 documents in
their application. We will review all documents and if you meet all qualifications
for admission, you will receive an admission decision within 24 hours.
Please note: Incomplete applications cannot be processed. Ensure all required documents
are submitted before expecting a decision.
4. What if my SEVIS record will be terminated soon?
If your SEVIS record is scheduled for termination within one week, please apply immediately
and include all documents required for transfer students.
For urgent SEVIS transfer situations, please email Joshua Behnken at
joshua.behnken@sbuniv.edu
immediately for expedited assistance.
5.
Who is my enrollment counselor?
Joshua Behnken
(joshua.behnken@sbuniv.edu)
is your primary enrollment counselor and point of contact throughout the entire admissions
and enrollment process.
6.
What if I haven't heard from my enrollment counselor?
The SBU team processes applications, emails, and inquiries in the order they are received.
For the most efficient service, please direct all inquiries to your designated enrollment
counselor.
Joshua Behnken
(joshua.behnken@sbuniv.edu)
will respond to all inquiries within 1 business day. If you haven't received a response
within this timeframe, please follow up with a second email.
7.
What are the additional fees beyond tuition?
Additional fees include:
Books fee: $30 per credit hour
Educational resources fee: $30 per credit hour
Total additional fees: $60 per credit hour
For a complete cost breakdown and current tuition rates, please visit our program
webpage or contact your enrollment counselor.
8.
Can I receive transfer credit from my previous school?
Yes, transfer credit may be available for relevant graduate coursework completed at
accredited institutions.
Transfer credit process:
Submit official transcripts from your previous graduate program(s)
Transcripts will be reviewed by admissions and academic staff
Transfer credit decisions will be communicated during the enrollment process
Please note a maximum transfer credit of 9 credit hours may be applied toward your
degree program.
Transfer credit evaluation occurs after admission but before final enrollment to ensure
accurate degree planning.
9.
What happens after I'm admitted?
After receiving your admission letter, you'll need to complete several steps before
enrollment:
Complete Pre-I-20 forms (Financial Affidavit and Intent to Enroll)
Receive your I-20 (issued within 24 hours of completing forms)
Apply for your F-1 visa (if applicable)
Submit official transcripts for final enrollment
Complete IT setup and course registration
Your enrollment counselor will guide you through each step and provide detailed instructions
as you progress.
10.
How long does the entire process take?
Timeline for complete enrollment:
Application review: 24 hours after submitting all required documents
I-20 processing: 24 hours after completing pre-I-20 requirements
Total process: Typically, 3 business days for complete applications but can be done
in 24 hours if all documents submitted correctly
Note: Transfer students may require additional time for SEVIS transfer coordination
with their current institution.
Need Additional Help?
For questions not covered in this FAQ, contact your enrollment counselor: Joshua Behnken
International Graduate Admissions Counselor Email:
joshua.behnken@sbuniv.edu
Academics
1. Can I drop a class?
If you are an F-1 student, you must study full-time.
This means at least six credit hours per semester and your CPT course. You cannot
drop below this level and remain in student status.
CPT courses are required during the residencies that take place each semester.
2. How do I register for classes?
You are automatically registered for classes each semester in a prescribed order.
Please do not request to take classes out of order or attempt to self-register.
3. Where can I find the academic catalog?
The academic catalog is
available online
Transfer Credits
1. What options do I have for transferring credits from another master's program?
Southwest Baptist University welcomes transfer students and offer flexible options
for applying previous graduate coursework toward your degree.
Transfer Credit Evaluation
We conduct comprehensive reviews of your previous graduate work to maximize eligible
transfer credits. You can transfer up to nine credit hours from accredited master's
programs, helping you complete your degree faster and more affordably.
How It Works
Submit official transcripts from your previous institution along with detailed course
descriptions. Our academic team evaluates each course individually based on content
relevance, academic rigor, and alignment with your chosen program requirements.
What You Can Expect
Thorough evaluation of all eligible coursework
Clear communication about which credits transfer
Personalized degree planning to optimize your academic path
Dedicated advisor support throughout the process
Getting Started
Ready to see how your previous coursework applies? Contact our admissions office with
your transcripts. Our team will provide a preliminary evaluation and guide you through
the next steps.
F-1 Visa/SEVIS Record
1. How do I transfer my SEVIS record to SBU?
Transferring your SEVIS record to Southwest Baptist University is a step-by-step process
that requires coordination between you, your current school, and SBU.
Step 1: Contact Your Current School's DSO
Start by reaching out to the Designated School Official (DSO) at your current institution.
They will explain their specific requirements for transferring your SEVIS record.
To help start the process, download and submit our
I-20 Transfer Form to your DSO
Step 2: Gather and Submit Required Documents
Key documents you will need to submit to your current institution are a copy of your
SBU acceptance letter and the completed I-20 Transfer Form. Please download your copy
of the
Step 3: Complete Transfer Forms
Some schools require additional transfer-out forms to be completed by both you and
a DSO at your new school. Contact our DSO, Levi Fox (
lfox@sbuniv.edu
) at SBU for assistance with any required paperwork.
Step 4: Meet Your Current School's Requirements
Submit all required documents and complete any additional requirements specified by
your current institution's DSO.
Step 5: Schedule the Transfer Date
Work with your current school's DSO to agree on the official transfer date. They will
initiate the SEVIS transfer on this agreed-upon date. SBU will issue you new I-20
on that date.
Important Notes About Your Status
You'll remain in legal status during the transfer process
Current employment authorization ends on the transfer date
New employment authorization begins on your first day in the SBU program
Need Help? Contact Levi Fox (lfox@sbuniv.edu) at SBU for assistance with your SEVIS
transfer process.
2. How do I get a travel endorsement?
Students planning to leave the U.S. must notify a DSO before traveling. I-20 travel
endorsements are for return travel to the U.S. to continue a program of study, not
for leaving the United States.
Students should plan travel outside the required residency dates. Students planning
to travel across two separate terms, must request authorization for both terms.
Email:
lfox@sbuniv.edu
to request your travel authorization.
3. When will I receive my I-20?
New SEVIS students will receive their I-20 after being admitted to SBU. Once admitted,
students will create their SEVIS account and schedule their embassy interview.
Transfer SEVIS students from another US institution will receive an updated I-20 once
they work with their current school's DSO to agree on the official transfer date.
The DSO will initiate the SEVIS transfer on this agreed-upon date, and you will receive
your new I-20 on that same date.
4. How do I know that SBU has received my SEVIS record?
Your previous institution will confirm that your record has been transferred. Retain
your existing I-20 until you are issued the updated document. Also, you will get a
new I-20 from SBU on the date your pervious institution agreed upon with you.
Important Notes About Your Status
You'll remain in legal status during the transfer process
Current employment authorization ends on the transfer date
New employment authorization begins on your first day in the SBU program
Residency
1. What is the residency requirement?
Hybrid courses require face-to-face time with your professor and classmates. Residencies
occur once per semester, three times per calendar year. Attendance is required for
all students. For F1 student visa holders, attendance is a SEVIS requirement.
Residency is a two-day class time designed to help you achieve success both academically,
and socially.
Class time and location varies. Be sure to watch your student email and your Canvas
course for updates on residency dates and locations.
2. Where will the residency classes meet?
Face-to-face courses that meet the residency requirement will be held on our Springfield
Campus, which is located at 4431 S. Fremont, Springfield, MO 65804. The campus features
modern classroom settings and is conveniently located 20 minutes from the Springfield-Branson
National Airport.
3. Is the program orientation mandatory?
Orientation is held virtually via Microsoft Teams shortly before the launch of a new
semester. The time and information link will be sent out roughly one week before Orientation.
Attendance is strongly encouraged and recommended, but a recording will be available
within your 1
st
course.
4. When will I receive a physical student ID card?
All students will receive a physical student ID card at their initial residency.
5. What are the upcoming residency dates?
Spring 2026
Residency 1: January 23-25, 2026
Residency 2: March 20-22, 2026
Summer 2026
Residency 1: May 22-24, 2026
Residency 2: June 19-21, 2026
Fall 2026
Residency 1: August 28-30, 2026
Residency 2: October 23-25, 2026
Spring 2027
Residency 1: January 22-24, 2027
Residency 2: April 3-5, 2027
Summer 2027
May 21-23, 2027
June 18-20, 2027
Career Center
1. What career support services are available?
Our Career Center provides comprehensive support designed specifically for international
students entering the U.S. job market.
Employment and Visa Support
Guidance on visa regulations and work authorization options, including OPT and H-1B
processes
Job search assistance focused on visa-sponsoring employers
Information on navigating U.S. employment requirements and regulations
Professional Development
Workshops on U.S. business etiquette and workplace culture
Resume and interview preparation tailored to American job market expectations
Professional networking strategies and LinkedIn profile optimization
Guidance on professional social media use in the U.S. context
Employer Connections
Our Career Center facilitates connections with employers who actively hire international
graduates, helping you leverage your global perspective as a competitive advantage
in the American job market.
2. Where have graduates from SBU worked after completing their degree?
SBU STEM program graduates have secured positions at leading companies including Walmart,
Microsoft, IBM, Boeing, Google, Lockheed Martin, Intel, Motorola, and many other industry
leaders across various sectors.