FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs).
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about our unique program. If you have questions that are not answered here, please email them to foresight@uh.edu
Is the program totally virtual?
Yes, the entire course is taken online. Students with Internet access can take the entire program from anywhere in the world! For professionals who travel the country or globe, class is an Internet connection away. All student work is submitted via online learning platforms, either Blackboard or Canvas. We do hold virtual classes at 5:30pm CST (UTC -6) each night via Zoom meeting software — everyone sees the same screen, we can all hear each other, and we can even break into groups! You can also watch a recording of the class at a later time to review the material.
Within the online learning platform, you have access to your instructors and students in the class to discuss projects, concepts, or course materials. Only registered students and the faculty member within the class can see the course materials and posted discussions.
What kind of computer set up do I need?
Mac/Windows/Linux computer with standard broadband connection, web browser and a headset with headphones and microphone. Students have even taken classes with a iPad or a smartphone.
How much does it cost to attend the program?
There is a handy tuition estimator that gives you a quick and accurate idea.
Tuition Calculator
Are there scholarships available?
The College of Technology offers some scholarships that in some cases provide in-state tuition for out-of-state students. The Foresight program offers The Kay Hamilton Memorial Scholarship with awards of up to $1,000 towards tuition.
How long does it take to complete the program?
Our Master’s program is now 30 credit hours, which is ten courses. To help you decide how many classes to take, we recommend that you budget 10 hours per week per course, which includes reading, class time, assignments, and online discussions. It can be done in one calendar year by taking four courses in the Fall semester, four in the Spring semester, and two in the Summer semester. We don’t recommend this for the faint of heart as it is very challenging. The regular full-time load is three courses. The majority of our students are part-time, taking one or two courses at a time.
What do graduates do with their degree?
Some graduates apply what they learn to use foresight to help the organization they have been currently working for. Some become organizational or in-house foresight professionals within corporations, governments, NGOs, etc. Others become consulting foresight professionals working on a wide range of projects and topics with a variety of different clients. Check out the Alumni page for student success stories and stay tuned to the blog, where we routinely feature what alumni are up to.
What’s the difference between the Grad Certificate and the Master’s degree?
The Master’s degree requires ten courses and the Grad Certificate is earned by taking four from among these same ten courses. The Grad Certificate is aimed at those who already have experience as foresight professionals and need to sharpen up their practice. It is also easier to get into (basically just transcripts and not a graduate test). If you fall in love with the program, you can roll over the four courses into the full Master’s degree, but you’ll have to re-apply for full university admission.