By Karren Jay G. Asgar & Mikee N. Norico
Seeking academic excellence and professional growth? The faculty and staff of the CPU School of Graduate Studies are committed to guiding you on your journey to success. Take the next step with CPU-SGS!
For individuals seeking advanced education, professional development, and academic excellence, the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) at Central Philippine University (CPU) stands as a premier institution offering a wide range of graduate programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their respective fields.
Founded in 1951, the CPU School of Graduate Studies has a rich history of academic excellence. The institution was first led by Dr. Linnea A. Nelson and has since flourished under the leadership of several esteemed deans. Currently, the School of Graduate Studies is headed by Dr. Rowena M. Libo-on, continuing its tradition of providing top-tier education. The school offers diverse graduate programs attended by both local and international students, taught by a distinguished faculty that includes industry practitioners, government administrators, international visiting lecturers, and adjunct professors. In recognition of its commitment to quality education, CPU-SGS was honored by the University in 2024 with four prestigious awards: the CPU Seal of Good Housekeeping, for full compliance with quality standards and procedures as defined by the University in its quality management system (QMS), and 3 Model Program Quality Awards for its Doctor of Education (EdD), Master of Arts in Education (MAEd), and Master in Business Administration (MBA) programs, which have been accredited Level IV by ACSCU-ACI.
Ready to lead and serve? CPU’s EdD students demonstrate their commitment to transformative leadership through an outreach visit, making a lasting impact while honing their skills!
The CPU-School of Graduate Studies offers a diverse selection of programs, catering to students across various disciplines. The Doctor of Education (Level IV) provides specializations in Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Administration and Supervision, and Guidance and Counseling. The Doctor of Management (Level II) offers concentrations in Business Management, Public Management, Development Management, and Tourism and Hospitality Management. Theology scholars may pursue a Doctor of Ministry (ATESEA) with majors in Pastoral Counseling & Clinical Pastoral Supervision and Church Management & Practical Ministries. At the master’s level, CPU-SGS provides a Master of Arts in Education (Level IV) with concentrations in Educational Administration and Supervision, Guidance and Counseling, Mathematics, and English Language and Literature. Other notable programs include the Master of Arts in Nursing (Level III), Master in Business Administration, Master in Business Administration major in Tourism and Hospitality Management (Level IV), and Master in Public Administration (Level II). Theological studies also feature prominently, with degrees such as Master of Divinity (ATESEA), Master of Theology (ATESEA), Master of Ministry (ATESEA), and Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling. Additionally, programs such as the Master of Science in Social Work and Master of Science in Teaching Biology provide rigorous training for professionals in science and social sciences.
Recent years have seen significant achievements for CPU-SGS, reinforcing its reputation for academic excellence. The EdD, MAEd, and MBA programs attained Level IV accreditation from ACSCU-ACI, while the MAN program achieved Level III status. The theological programs DMin, MMin, MDiv, and MTheol have received accreditation from ATESEA. CPU-SGS has also seen increasing enrollment, with students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, further cementing its global presence. Faculty and students have actively participated in international conferences, research presentations, and cultural exchanges in Vietnam, Korea, and Indonesia. The Dean of SGS has been a visiting professor at Thai Nguyen University of Economics and Business Administration in Vietnam and Fukuoka University in Japan, while also serving as a plenary speaker at Beibu University and Jiangxi University of Technology in China, and Kasetsart University in Thailand. In alignment with CPU’s research goals, SGS continuously supports research publications in Scopus-indexed and peer-reviewed journals, successfully meeting its 2024 quota. These accomplishments highlight CPU-SGS’s steadfast commitment to academic excellence and research development.
CPU-SGS is highly regarded by its students and alumni. Ivy Grace Quilantang, a Doctor of Management (DM) candidate, emphasized the university’s robust research facilities, competent faculty, and excellent library resources as key reasons for her enrollment. MBA graduate Shedrick Layson shared that theoretical and practical knowledge imparted by experienced faculty significantly contributed to his professional success.
“As a graduate of the CPU School of Graduate Studies with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, I can confidently say that the program and SGS has provided me with the foundation needed for my chosen career path, as well as professional growth. The curriculum provided me with both theoretical and practical knowledge needed to become successful. The experienced faculty provided real world experiences in the class, which enriched the discussion. In my experience, it is worthwhile to enroll in CPU School of Graduate Studies that offers quality education and has significantly contributed to my career success,” Shedrick Layson, Master in Business Administration (MBA) graduate said.
Liel Comoro, a Master of Arts in Nursing student, commended the graduate programs for their high academic standards and integration of Christian values.
“The graduate programs are designed to meet high academic standards, ensuring quality education. Moreover, CPU integrates Christian-based values in its curriculum,” Liel Comoro, Master of Arts in Nursing student said.
Doctor of Education graduate Cherie Gil Gatila-Sotto praised CPU for its reputation, dedicated teachers, and supportive learning environment, which helped her grow professionally while working in education.
“I chose CPU School of Graduate Studies because it has a good reputation and well-trained, dedicated teachers. I want to learn more and grow as a person while preparing for better opportunities. CPU also provides quality education and a supportive learning environment that meets my professional needs, as I also work in the elementary department of this institution. I believe it will help me become better at what I do and achieve my goals,” Cherie Gil Gatila-Sotto, Doctor of Education graduate said.
Likewise, Doctor of Management graduate Elsie Tedoco highlighted CPU’s strong academic reputation, international recognition, and Christian-based learning, which fosters moral integrity and transformative leadership.
“CPU is a well-established university known for its strong academic programs, recognized internationally and Christian values. As a Christian institution, CPU integrates faith-based learning with academic excellence, promoting moral integrity, transformative leadership, and social responsibility. The School of Graduate studies in CPU offers advanced training in various disciplines, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students can learn from highly qualified professors with expertise in their fields, many of whom have extensive research and industry experience,” Elsie Tedoco, Doctor of Management graduate said.
For those considering furthering their education, SGS Assistant Dean Dr. Althea U. Denuevo offers this advice: “Invest in yourself through career advancement. Pursue a graduate degree to have an edge in this competitive society. In this rapidly changing world, it is essential to ‘future-proof’ yourself by engaging in research endeavors. The CPU School of Graduate Studies, with its competent professors and experienced practitioners, provides students the opportunity to develop strategies applicable to real-life cases and professional settings. Graduate education is a worthwhile investment—one that equips you with knowledge and skills that no one can take away from you.”
Choosing the CPU School of Graduate Studies means gaining access to a top-tier education, outstanding faculty, and a strong research culture, all within a Christ-centered academic environment. With its proven track record in academic excellence and research, CPU-SGS remains a top choice for graduate students aiming to advance in their careers while making meaningful contributions to their respective fields.
For those who have concerns or inquiries on how to enroll at the CPU School of Graduate Studies, kindly send an email to graduateschool@cpu.edu.ph or visit their Facebook page, CPU School of Graduate Studies, for more updates.