Application for ISUFST’s six new grad programs now open

BAROTAC NUEVO, Iloilo – The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) is now accepting applications for its six newly approved graduate programs, as confirmed by University President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr.

These include the Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) and Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD Ed), with specializations in English Language Teaching, Science, and Mathematics.

These graduate school degree programs were awarded the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commission En Banc (CEB) last August, following rigorous evaluations of the university’s faculty qualifications, curriculum standards, and infrastructure.

The university’s Academic and Administrative Councils then officially endorsed these course offerings, leading to their approval by the Board of Regents (BOR). On Tuesday, September 3, CHED and ISUFST Board of Regents Chairman, Dr. Prospero de Vera III, signed off on their immediate implementation.

Dr. Siason underscored the importance of this development, stating, “The launch of these graduate programs is a clear testament to ISUFST’s unwavering commitment to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education that truly meets the needs of our community. This opportunity will significantly benefit educators and professionals in the region, empowering them to elevate their skills and knowledge.”

Dr. Siason also highlighted the university’s ongoing efforts to align with international standards, emphasizing, “At ISUFST, we are not just investing in state-of-the-art infrastructure and efficient management systems; we are also deeply committed to building a world-class faculty. By bringing together some of the region’s most dedicated and accomplished educators, we are setting new benchmarks in academic excellence.” He added, “This achievement marks yet another milestone for ISUFST as we continue to lead in educational innovation.”

Adding to this achievement, ISUFST was recently recognized at CHED’s 3rd Regional Quality Awards 2024, where it received five prestigious honors, including the SUC with 100% Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for Undergraduate Programs, Model Implementer of the Scholarships for Instructors’ Knowledge Advancement Program (SIKAP), and awards for excellence in Indigenous Peoples (IP) Education and Internationalization Initiatives.

The introduction of these graduate programs comes at a crucial time when the demand for advanced education in key fields is rapidly increasing, particularly in Western Visayas. As expected, they have attracted a wide range of applicants from all over the region eager to pursue higher education and contribute to their communities’ academic and professional landscapes. Admission is now open for the first semester of the Academic Year 2024-2025. For more inquiries and concerns, interested parties are encouraged to email sgs@isufst.edu.ph.

It is noteworthy that in addition to the six newly approved degree programs, ISUFST’s School of Graduate Studies (SGS) also currently offers a diverse array of advanced degrees. These include the Doctor of Fisheries Technology (DFishTech) with majors in Aquaculture, Marine Fisheries, and Fish Processing; Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Technology (PhDEdTech); PhD in Educational Management (PhDEdMgt); Doctor of Development Management (DDM) with a major in Local Governance and Ecological Tourism; Master in Fisheries Technology (MFT) with majors in Aquaculture, Marine Fisheries, and Fish Processing; Master of Arts in Educational Management (MAEM); Master in Information Technology (MIT); Master of Science in Agriculture (MSAgri); Master in Hospitality Management (MHM); and Master in Development Management (MDM) with a major in Local Governance and Ecological Tourism.

As ISUFST opens its doors to new graduate school students, the university community is optimistic about the positive impact these programs will have on the region’s educational development.

The school is poised to shape the future of education in Western Visayas, empowering individuals to achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. (Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)