Frequently Asked Questions
Applications to Dragonfly Graduate Programs (FAQs)
The application process involves two main steps: 1) Fill out our "My Project Dragonfly” form and 2) submission of the Miami University Graduate School application (including transcripts, essays, CV/résumé, and recommendations). More information is on the Apply page.
Yes, two recommendation letters are required. You will provide recommender names and email addresses in the Graduate School application. Miami University will then automatically email them a link to submit their recommendations.
Log in to your student application portal and select “Manage your Account” to view the status of your recommenders' submissions.
No, the GRE is not required for this program.
No, a prior biology background is not required for admission. However, one college-level life science course (or equivalent) is required to complete the master's degree and can be taken during your studies. Dragonfly offers an online course, BIO 668 Biology through Inquiry, that fulfills this requirement. Additional details are available in our Biology Requirement FAQs.
No. All applicants are considered based on their application materials, regardless of age, career stage, prior travel, or previous enrollment at Miami University. The program seeks a diverse group of individuals from various backgrounds and experience levels.
No. The program welcomes applicants from all disciplines and professional backgrounds.
The Miami University Graduate School generally requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75. The department may petition for conditional admission for applicants with a GPA below 2.75 if their other qualifications are strong. A personal statement explaining any factors affecting your academic history can be submitted for consideration.
Yes, the Graduate School application has an optional Personal Statement section where you can provide additional relevant context about your background and experiences.
Yes. Please email dragonfly@miamioh.edu indicating your intention and your first choice of program. Only one Graduate School application is needed.
Yes. Please indicate your first choice on the Graduate School application, and then email dragonfly@miamioh.edu with your preferred list of AIP sites. Remember, AIP students need to live near or easily travel to their chosen site.
Yes, upload unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions to your Graduate School application. Admitted students must then submit official transcripts.
Start via the Graduate Degree (Online Programs) link on the Graduate School Application website. Select either "Biology (Project Dragonfly) (online)" (M.A.) or "Biological Sciences (Project Dragonfly) (online)" (M.A.T.) and Summer admission term. Follow the prompts, providing academic history (including unofficial transcripts), reference information, and supplemental materials (essays, CV/résumé).
Applications open in early September. GFP applications are due January 15 (priority deadline: January 1) while AIP applications are due February 15 (priority deadline: February 1).
Generally, undergraduate studies should be complete before starting the master's program. However, a 1-2 week overlap may be acceptable. Contact dragonfly@miamioh.edu with specific questions.
For the AIP: Yes. While coursework is online, the AIP requires on-site experiential learning and fieldwork at affiliated institutions located in specific cities (Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Detroit, Jacksonville, St. Louis, San Diego, New York). Applicants must be able to travel to and engage with these locations.
For the GFP: Generally, no. Students can reside anywhere in the U.S. International applicants should review specific recommendations and contact Dr. Kevin Matteson at matteskc@miamioh.edu. All GFP program costs are the same regardless of where you reside.
Yes, international students are eligible. Review Miami University's recommendations for international online students and then email Dr. Kevin Matteson at matteskc@miamioh.edu with your location and interest in the GFP.
Admission decisions are emailed by March 15 for the Global Field Program and by April 15 for the Advanced Inquiry Program.
Program Costs (FAQs)
Federal student loans and loan deferment are possible for degree-seeking students enrolled at least half-time (5+ graduate credit hours) per term. Complete the FAFSA to apply. Private loans are also an option. A single six-month deferment is typically allowed per federal loan. Payment plans are available. Washington State residents have specific loan advocacy resources. More information can be found at Miami University One Stop for Student Success for Graduate Students.
No, the AIP and GFP have the same tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students.
Total program cost depends on start date and completion time. Current course costs follow Miami University's three-year cyclical Market Driven Tuition rate. Project Dragonfly aims to keep costs down.
Miami University offers a reduced tuition rate for all Dragonfly courses. Check with your employer for professional development funds. See resources on funding your degree and scholarships. Standard financial aid is generally tied to half-time enrollment. Below are some quotes from Dragonfly students on how they funded their degree.
- “Check to see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement. I was lucky in that my employer offered $3,500 per year for graduate school. That was more than enough to cover each year of the AIP.” – Amy T., AIP graduate from Goshen, Ohio
- “I was able to pay as I went. I charged the tuition, which I found reasonable, and then worked hard to pay it off before the next semester. The cost is drastically reduced. I did not have a single loan. Also, I was able to write it off on my taxes.” – Perky S., GFP graduate from Dover, Idaho
- “Believe it or not, I have been ‘pay-as-I-go.’ ” – Jennifer H., GFP student from Longwood, Fla.
Graduate Courses (FAQs)
Yes, students complete various projects, including an Authorship Leadership Challenge. A list of student-authored publications is available.
While many finish in 2.5 to three years, the maximum completion time per Miami University policy is five years: December 31 of your fifth year of study from the time you were admitted.
AIP courses are primarily asynchronous online, with Web+ courses (21 of 35 credits) including up to five days of required in-person experiential learning at affiliated institutions.
Transferability of credits to other institutions is determined by the receiving institution. Courses from other universities are not transferable into this program.
Yes, with specific conditions: acceptance into the master's program, participation for at least one semester, a grade of B or better, completion within five years of graduation, and submission of a request form. Limits apply (e.g., maximum of nine core credits, maximum of seven Web+ or Earth Expeditions credits, 10 total transfer credits).
Yes, field courses (Earth Expeditions) and AIP Web+ courses require a moderate level of walking and similar activity. Participants should be in good health and prepared for spending extended periods of time outdoors, potentially in varying terrain and environmental conditions. Gradual exercise is recommended for those with sedentary lifestyles.
GFP students have a required structure (21 Earth Expeditions credits, 14 Core credits). First-year students take a required introductory Earth Expeditions course. For subsequent Earth Expeditions, students rank their preferences, and the program aims to place students in one of their top three choices. Flexibility exists in the self-directed nature of projects within the course framework.
Yes, an Advanced Field option allows taking the same course in different years with Project Dragonfly Graduate Committee approval and specific educational objectives.
No, taking two Earth Expeditions simultaneously is not permitted to encourage reflection and integration of the experience.
Yes, stand-alone courses are available in various topics with reduced tuition.
The programs are designed for working professionals. Graduates often advance or change roles within their current organizations (nonprofit, government, education, business) or pursue new careers. The curriculum develops skills in conservation, education, and leadership, applicable in diverse settings. See these pages for more info on what this program can provide: What Can This Program Provide and Career Development Resources.
The coursework is similar. The choice depends on background and goals. M.A. projects often focus on biological conservation, while M.A.T. projects may involve educational applications. The M.A.T. is suitable for certified teachers or those with an education background/interest, but it does not lead to teaching licensure.
This varies by state. Check with your State Department of Education or a university's College of Education for specific requirements. The M.A.T. is offered through the Biology Department, not an education department.
Miami University instructors, including core Dragonfly staff and faculty, teach the courses. AIP students also receive support from advisors and mentors at their affiliated AIP Sites.
Both programs emphasize inquiry-based, participatory education for community impact. However, the GFP has a global focus with international learning experiences, while the AIP is locally focused, centered on learning at affiliated AIP Sites within the student's community.
Yes, all Miami University students can request a DigitalID. Enrollment verification for official purposes (e.g., loan deferment) is through the National Student Clearinghouse.
Miami University's Student Disability Services (SDS) provides accommodations and resources for students with disabilities.
Earth Expeditions (FAQs)
Yes, you are responsible for booking your own travel to the specified city within the course country and for arriving at the designated meeting time and location. Flying independently is permitted. Accepted students receive instructor flight details for potential itinerary matching.
Specific in-country field dates (typically nine to 10 days) vary by course and location (see individual course webpages). All students also participate in an online course together from April to early December. Factor in additional travel days for long distances.
Expect beautiful but modest accommodations during the Earth Expeditions field portion, typically involving shared rooms for two to six students, as well as shared bathrooms and access to showers. Details are found on our Earth Expeditions courses pages.
Accepted students receive comprehensive pre-departure information. Miami University requires travel insurance (approx. $35) and a valid passport for international travel. Refer to the U.S. State Department and the CDC Travelers' Health pages for detailed travel and health information.
Yes, up to seven Earth Expeditions credits can be applied toward the M.A. in Biology or the M.A.T. in the Biological Sciences at Miami University.
Yes, Project Dragonfly and Miami University offer the Global Field Program (GFP) and the Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP) with options for an M.A. in Biology or an M.A.T. in the Biological Sciences. Visit the Global Field Program or the Advanced Inquiry Program webpage for details.
Successful completion of an Earth Expeditions course yields seven graduate credit hours (five in summer, two in fall).
This depends on individual state requirements. Check with your state's Department of Education or a university's College of Education for specifics.
Continuing Graduate Status (FAQs)
CGS allows individuals to take graduate-level courses at Miami University without pursuing a degree. It does not guarantee future admission to Dragonfly master's programs.
A U.S.-equivalent bachelor's degree is required, but transcripts and a minimum GPA are not. References are also not required.
No, federal financial aid is only for degree-seeking students.
Yes, up to 10 credits (either one seven-credit Earth Expeditions course OR seven Web+ credits + one three-credit Web course) with a grade of B or better, taken within five years of your projected graduation, can be applied after acceptance and one semester of participation in the master's program, upon completion of a request form.
Possibly. While not a guarantee, successful completion of CGS coursework can demonstrate your ability to succeed in graduate-level studies, which can strengthen a degree application, especially for those with a GPA below the standard requirement.
There is no limit, but only a maximum of 10 credits can be applied toward a master's degree.
Contact the Graduate School directly at applygrad@miamioh.edu to inquire about a possible correction.
Contact Project Dragonfly
111 Upham Hall
Oxford, Ohio
Est. 1994
