Question for Graduate Students

[marianne202]

I'm in an MHA program and on average in our regular 6 wk classes we have about 2-4 chapters to read in 1-3 texts, then we have to write two 800-1800 word discussion board post all in full APA format with usually a minimum of 4 references. Then we have to respond to at least two other students posts for each topic with a miniumum of 200-400 words of substantive content with a minimum of 2 references, again all in full APA format. We also have to do a learning journal entry each week.

This current term had our capstone start that will run through 3 consecutive terms. So while we do the other work listed above we have to formulate a 30-50 page paper in full APA format including all elements. We also have to submit this in sections along with a power point presentation. This capstone is based on us actually working for a healthcare facility and performing some problem solving service for them which they will give feedback for that we will submit in summary form. This will take a total of 36 weeks to complete in phases with the final paper, powerpoint and summary submitted in total at the end. This is termed a research project. Every step even the basic breakdown of the business structure of our facilty being used has to be in APA format.

I hate writing and didn't realize this was part of the requirement for this program. I would love to do my doctorate, but the dissertation and all the required writing has me shying away, so needless to say when this was revealed to us a few weeks ago I was gobsmacked! If I survive this it will be a miracle! At my age I think this will take a few years off my life. Up to this point my other 4 classes were fun and doable with working full-time and having kids still at home. This extra work load and a teacher that seems very unreasonable has several of us A students contemplating our options as we are all now barely getting B's in her class. She is our regular class instructor and our capstone instructor so we are stuck with her for 36 weeks instead of just 6. I can take anyone for 6 weeks, but 36 may be a challenge.

I agree that the program rigor is different for different majors. This is an accelerated cohort program that is completed in 18 months so it may be more work on a faster pace. Your mileage may vary!

I hope this helps.