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The University of San Francisco (USF) has language requirements primarily for international students whose first language is not English. These requirements ensure that students have the necessary language proficiency to succeed in academic coursework conducted in English. Here's an overview of the language requirements at USF:

1. English Proficiency Requirements

International students must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following methods:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

  • Minimum score: 80 iBT (Internet-based test)
  • Some programs may require higher scores.

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • Minimum score: 6.5 overall band score
  • Some programs may have higher score requirements.

• Duolingo English Test:

  • Minimum score: 105 (this test is an alternative to TOEFL and IELTS, especially during certain global circumstances).

• Pearson Test of English (PTE):

  • Minimum score: 53

• Cambridge English:

  • USF may accept C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency as proof of English proficiency.

• SAT/ACT English Scores:

  • Students who have achieved a certain score on the SAT or ACT English section may be waived from additional English proficiency testing.

• Completion of English Composition:

  • Students who have completed English Composition courses at a U.S. college or university with satisfactory grades may be exempt from taking additional language proficiency tests.

2. Exemptions

Students may be exempt from the English proficiency requirement if:

• They are native speakers of English.
• They have completed at least two years of full-time academic study at a recognized college or university where English is the primary language of instruction (e.g., in the U.S. or another English-speaking country).

3. Conditional Admission

For students who do not meet the required English proficiency scores, USF may offer conditional admission. These students may be required to complete an English as a Second Language (ESL) program or attend English language workshops before fully matriculating into their degree program.

4. Additional Language Requirements for Specific Programs

Some specific programs, especially graduate programs, may have their own higher language proficiency requirements, so it's important to check the specific program’s admissions page for details.

Apply to USF

The University of San Francisco (USF) is a private Jesuit university located in San Francisco, California. USF offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, with several notable course specialties. Some of the university's prominent fields of study include:

1. Business Administration

• USF's School of Management is highly regarded, especially for its MBA program and other graduate business degrees. The school has a strong focus on social responsibility and ethics in business practices.
• The Master of Science in Business Analytics and Sustainable Business programs are particularly notable.

2. Law

• USF’s School of Law offers specialized programs, particularly in Intellectual Property (IP), International Business and Human Rights Law, and Environmental Law.
• It is one of the most diverse law schools in the U.S., attracting students from around the world.

3. Nursing and Health Professions

• The School of Nursing and Health Professions at USF is well-regarded, offering a range of programs including the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Nurse Practitioner programs.
• Public Health is another strong area, with a focus on community health and social justice.

4. Engineering and Computer Science

• The School of Engineering at USF is known for its focus on environmental sustainability, biomedical engineering, and software engineering.
• Data Science and Cybersecurity are also growing specialties, reflecting the tech-driven culture of the San Francisco Bay Area.

5. Psychology and Counseling

• USF offers strong programs in Psychology, with specialties in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, and Marriage and Family Therapy. These programs focus on social justice and community-oriented practice.
• The Counseling Psychology program is particularly recognized for its integration of spirituality and mental health.

6. Environmental Studies and Sustainability

• With its location in the Bay Area, a region known for environmental consciousness, USF has an emphasis on Environmental Studies and Sustainability. Students engage in both theoretical and practical aspects of environmental conservation, climate change policy, and urban sustainability.

7. Education

• The School of Education at USF offers specialty programs in special education, teacher preparation, educational leadership, and school counseling.
• The program integrates a strong social justice focus, encouraging students to become advocates for marginalized communities in educational settings.

8. Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

• USF offers strong programs in the liberal arts, including specialties in Philosophy, History, Political Science, Sociology, and English Literature.
• The Urban Studies program is another specialty, reflecting the university’s connection to the vibrant city of San Francisco and its surrounding areas.

9. Creative Arts

• The College of Arts and Sciences offers Art and Architecture programs with a focus on design thinking, visual arts, and art history.
• USF also has an active Theater Arts department with a strong emphasis on both performance and production.

10. Global and International Studies

• USF offers a Global Studies major that focuses on international relations, global cultures, and international development. Students in this program have opportunities for internships and study abroad experiences.

11. Social Work

• The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at USF focuses on community practice and clinical practice, emphasizing social justice and advocacy for underserved populations.

12. Communication Studies

• USF has a strong Communication Studies department, with specializations in media studies, public relations, and digital communication. The program emphasizes the intersection of communication and technology in today’s digital world.

Overall Focus

• Social Justice is a central theme across many of USF’s programs, with the university encouraging students to engage in work that contributes positively to society, especially in terms of human rights, environmental sustainability, and community engagement.
• Interdisciplinary Programs: USF offers several interdisciplinary programs that blend various fields, such as Environmental Science and Environmental Studies, and International Studies, which are popular choices for students interested in tackling global challenges.

Faculty & Research

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Careers at USF

The University of San Francisco (USF) is home to a number of accomplished professors, though it is more known for its strong academic programs and commitment to social justice and ethical leadership than for a specific group of world-renowned professors like those at some larger research universities. However, there are a few notable faculty members and leaders in the academic community associated with USF:

Notable Faculty Members (Past and Present)

1. Dr. James Taylor - Professor of Biology

   • Dr. Taylor has made significant contributions to the field of genetics, specifically around cell biology. He has a notable reputation for his work on genetic regulation and bacterial development.

2. Dr. Suzanne S. Toczyski - Professor of Biology

   • An expert in cell biology and genetics, Dr. Toczyski's research has had a profound impact on our understanding of cell division and chromosome segregation. She is widely recognized within the biological sciences community.

3. Dr. Charles M. Strozier - Professor of History

   • An expert on psychology and history, Dr. Strozier is known for his work on trauma and psychological history. His work has been influential in understanding social movements, particularly those that involve historical trauma.

4. Dr. Dolores Delgado Bernal - Professor of Education

   • A leading scholar in education and equity, Dr. Bernal has focused on addressing issues of diversity and inclusion in higher education, and has worked extensively on social justice education initiatives.

5. Dr. Gregory D. S. Anderson - Professor of Economics

   • Dr. Anderson is known for his research on international economics, with a focus on development economics and the economics of education. He has contributed significant scholarly work in understanding the intersection between economics and social mobility.

6. Dr. Richard R. Johnson - Professor of Environmental Studies

   • Dr. Johnson has focused his work on environmental sustainability and urban ecology, contributing valuable research on environmental policy, climate change, and the green economy.

7. Dr. Carolyn E. Geer - Professor of Philosophy

   • A well-regarded scholar in philosophy, Dr. Geer’s work focuses on ethics, social justice, and the intersection of philosophy with public policy.

Key Factors for Notable Faculty at USF

• Interdisciplinary Focus: Many USF professors are engaged in interdisciplinary research, with collaborations that cross the boundaries of traditional disciplines, particularly in social justice, healthcare, and business.
• Commitment to Service and Social Justice: USF professors are often involved in community engagement, leveraging their expertise to contribute to causes related to public service, human rights, and equity.
• Academic Excellence: USF faculty are dedicated to providing a high-quality education to their students, balancing research with hands-on teaching in small classroom settings.

While Nobel Prize winners may not be a prominent feature at USF, the university’s Jesuit values and its commitment to social justice and leadership attract professors who are highly regarded within their respective fields, and who often make significant contributions to both academia and society.

The University of San Francisco (USF) has not had any Nobel Prize winners among its faculty or alumni. However, like many prestigious institutions, USF has made significant contributions to various fields, particularly in social justice, business, law, and health, in line with its Jesuit mission.

Though not directly associated with Nobel laureates, the university is known for producing graduates who go on to make impactful contributions in their respective fields. Additionally, USF’s School of Law, School of Business, and School of Nursing and Health Professions have earned recognition for their commitment to ethics, public interest, and community service, aligning with the values promoted by Nobel Prize winners in areas like peace, economics, and medicine.