University of Mindanao Professional Schools – Tagum: Davao University Guide
Overview of University of Mindanao Professional Schools – Tagum
The University of Mindanao (UM) Professional Schools – Tagum is one of the key graduate education hubs in Davao del Norte, serving working professionals, educators, public servants, and industry practitioners seeking advanced academic qualifications. As part of the larger University of Mindanao system—one of Mindanao’s oldest and largest private universities—the Tagum Professional Schools campus extends the institution’s mission of accessible, high-quality tertiary and graduate-level education.
Located in Tagum City, a rapidly developing economic and governmental center, UM Professional Schools offers a strategic environment for adult learners balancing work, family, and academic advancement. Graduate-level programs here focus on practical, industry-aligned skills, leadership development, and advanced theories tailored to regional needs in business, education, public administration, and allied sectors.
This guide provides an in-depth look at programs, campus strengths, facilities, admission procedures, and the overall academic experience for students considering UM Professional Schools – Tagum.
History and Institutional Background
The University of Mindanao was founded in 1946 and has grown into a large multi-campus institution with thousands of students across the Davao Region. Its Professional Schools were developed to address the increasing need for graduate education among professionals and government employees.
The Tagum Professional Schools serve as a northern Davao extension of UM’s graduate studies programs, bringing advanced learning closer to the province of Davao del Norte. The campus is known for flexible schedules, high academic standards, and accessibility for working professionals.
Academic Programs Offered
UM Professional Schools – Tagum primarily focuses on graduate-level education, with programs designed to meet the growing demands for specialization and leadership roles in the workplace.
Master’s Degree Programs
The campus typically offers a wide range of master’s programs, including:
-
Master in Business Administration (MBA)
One of the most popular programs for aspiring managers, entrepreneurs, and corporate professionals.
-
Master in Public Administration (MPA)
Designed for local government employees, public servants, policy workers, and NGO practitioners seeking career advancement.
-
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd)
With several majors such as Educational Management, Guidance and Counseling, Teaching English, and more, the program helps teachers enhance expertise and meet requirements for promotions.
-
Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ)
Suitable for criminology instructors, law enforcement officers, and individuals working in security-related fields.
-
Master of Information Technology (MIT)
For IT professionals seeking advanced skills in systems development, data analytics, and digital transformation.
Doctorate Programs
UM Professional Schools – Tagum may offer doctoral programs depending on ongoing enrollment demand. Common offerings include:
-
Doctor of Education (EdD)
-
Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)
-
Doctor in Business Administration (DBA)
Doctoral programs are research-intensive and ideal for senior educators, administrators, and leaders aiming for the highest levels of specialization.
Flexible Learning Options
One of the strongest points of UM Professional Schools – Tagum is its flexible learning system tailored for adult learners:
Weekend and Evening Classes
Courses are often scheduled on weekends or during off-work hours, making it possible for professionals to pursue their degrees without compromising their jobs.
Blended and Online Learning
Following the digital shift in higher education, UM has integrated blended modalities that allow students to complete some requirements remotely. Online submissions, digital readings, and virtual consultations are now common.
Research-Based Curriculum
Graduate programs emphasize research papers, case studies, capstone projects, strategic analyses, and thesis work to prepare students for real-world problem-solving.
Faculty Excellence
UM Professional Schools prides itself on employing faculty members with extensive industry and academic experience. Professors include:
-
Senior educators with advanced degrees
-
Local government leaders and policy experts
-
Corporate managers and business consultants
-
Research specialists and practitioners
The mix of academic expertise and professional backgrounds ensures that lessons are grounded in practical applications and contemporary examples.
Campus and Learning Environment
Although the Professional Schools in Tagum operates with a smaller, more intimate campus footprint compared to main UM campuses, it provides a conducive learning environment built around the needs of working graduate students.
Key Facilities Include:
-
Air-conditioned classrooms designed for seminars and discussions
-
Graduate student lounges for collaboration and study
-
Research and resource centers
-
Wi-Fi-enabled areas
-
Administrative offices for enrollment, advising, and document processing
Because the student population primarily consists of adult learners, the environment is quieter and academically focused.
Why Choose UM Professional Schools – Tagum?
1. Strong Reputation in Mindanao
UM is one of the most respected private universities in the region, known for quality instruction, accreditation, and successful alumni.
2. Accessible for Working Professionals
Flexible schedules and blended-learning options support career-driven individuals.
3. Affordable Tuition
Compared to many private universities in the Philippines, UM provides budget-friendly tuition rates with flexible payment schemes.
4. Convenient Tagum Location
For residents of Davao del Norte and nearby areas such as Panabo, Asuncion, and Nabunturan, the campus eliminates the need to travel to Davao City for graduate education.
5. Research-Oriented Programs
Students are trained to produce scholarly work applicable to real-world sectors, enhancing professional credibility.
Admission Requirements
Admission into UM Professional Schools – Tagum usually requires:
-
Completed application form
-
Transcript of Records (TOR)
-
Honorable dismissal (for graduates of other institutions)
-
PSA Birth Certificate
-
2×2 or passport-sized photos
-
Application fee
-
For doctoral programs: proof of master’s degree completion and relevant professional experience
International students may need additional documents such as a student visa endorsement or English proficiency proof.
Enrollment Process
The enrollment process is straightforward and friendly to first-time graduate students:
Step 1: Initial Inquiry
Prospective students may inquire via email, phone, or the UM website to get program details and schedule.
Step 2: Document Submission
All required documents are submitted to the Graduate Studies office.
Step 3: Evaluation and Interview
Some programs require interviews to assess academic and professional readiness.
Step 4: Payment of Fees
Students proceed with tuition payment through onsite or online channels.
Step 5: Orientation and Class Start
New students attend orientation sessions that introduce program structures, requirements, and research guidelines.
Student Experience and Culture
Professional Peer Network
Students often come from diverse sectors—education, business, healthcare, government—creating a stimulating environment for knowledge exchange.
Research Support
Workshops, consultations, and faculty guidance help students develop their thesis or capstone projects.
Balanced Academic Load
Professors understand the nature of adult learning, often designing assignments and assessments that align with professional contexts.
The UM system promotes community outreach, social responsibility, and leadership training even at the graduate level.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Completing a master’s or doctorate from UM Professional Schools – Tagum opens doors to numerous career paths:
For MBA Graduates
-
Operations manager
-
Entrepreneur or business owner
-
Marketing and sales executive
-
Corporate supervisor or director
For MPA Graduates
For MAEd and EdD Graduates
-
School administrator
-
Department head
-
Guidance counselor
-
College instructor
For Criminology and IT Graduates
A UM graduate degree significantly boosts employability, promotion potential, and credibility in the workplace.
Final Thoughts
The University of Mindanao Professional Schools – Tagum is an excellent choice for professionals seeking advanced education without leaving Davao del Norte. With flexible learning options, reputable programs, experienced faculty, and a supportive academic environment, it stands as one of the most convenient and high-quality graduate education providers in the region.
Whether you’re an educator aiming for promotion, a government employee seeking career advancement, or a professional striving for leadership roles, UM Professional Schools – Tagum offers the tools, training, and academic foundation to support your journey.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the University of Mindanao Professional Schools – Tagum?
The University of Mindanao Professional Schools – Tagum is the graduate education arm of the University of Mindanao located in Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
It primarily serves working professionals, teachers, public servants, and practitioners who want to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees without leaving the province.
Programs are designed to be practical, research-based, and aligned with the needs of industries and local government in the Davao Region.
What graduate programs are commonly offered in the Tagum campus?
While specific offerings may vary by semester, the Tagum Professional Schools typically provide popular graduate programs such as Master in Business Administration (MBA),
Master in Public Administration (MPA), Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) with various majors, Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and programs in information technology or related fields.
In some cases, doctoral programs like Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Public Administration (DPA), or Doctor in Business Administration (DBA) may also be made available depending on demand.
Who is the ideal student for UM Professional Schools – Tagum?
The ideal student is a working professional or educator who wants to upgrade qualifications, earn a promotion, or advance into leadership roles.
Many students are teachers, school administrators, LGU employees, government officers, business managers, entrepreneurs, or professionals from fields such as criminology and IT.
The programs are structured so that adult learners can balance existing jobs, family responsibilities, and academic commitments.
Are class schedules friendly for working professionals?
Yes. One of the main advantages of UM Professional Schools – Tagum is its flexible class scheduling.
Many classes are held on weekends, in the evenings, or during time slots that are practical for employed students.
This setup allows professionals to continue full-time work while gradually completing their graduate units.
In addition, professors often design assignments that can be connected to students’ actual workplace challenges, making the schedule and workload more manageable.
Does the campus offer online or blended learning options?
UM has increasingly adopted blended learning, combining face-to-face sessions with online components.
Depending on the program and academic term, students may attend some lectures on campus while completing readings, discussions, and requirements through digital platforms.
This hybrid approach helps reduce travel time, supports students who live in nearby municipalities, and makes the learning experience more flexible and accessible.
What are the usual admission requirements for a master’s program?
Typical requirements for master’s programs include a completed application form, an official Transcript of Records (TOR),
an honorable dismissal or transfer credentials if the applicant graduated from another institution, a PSA-issued birth certificate,
and a specified number of ID photos. Applicants may also need to pay an application or admission fee and, in some cases, undergo an interview.
Programs with specialized tracks might ask for relevant professional experience or licensure.
What additional requirements are needed for doctoral programs?
For doctoral programs, applicants must hold a relevant master’s degree from a recognized institution.
They may be required to have a certain number of years of professional or administrative experience, especially for programs like DPA or DBA.
Additional documents could include a detailed curriculum vitae, recommendation letters, and sometimes a brief concept paper or statement of research intent.
Doctoral applicants should be prepared for more intensive research expectations compared to master’s students.
How much does it cost to study at UM Professional Schools – Tagum?
Tuition fees at the University of Mindanao are generally more affordable compared to many private universities in larger metropolitan areas.
Exact costs depend on the program, number of units enrolled per term, and any miscellaneous or laboratory fees.
Graduate students often appreciate that they can pay by term and adjust their unit load according to budget and schedule.
For precise, updated figures, it is best to contact the Tagum campus or the UM admissions office directly.
What facilities can graduate students expect on campus?
Although the Professional Schools in Tagum are focused on graduate studies and may be smaller than undergraduate campuses,
students can expect air-conditioned classrooms suited for seminars, discussion-based learning spaces, and faculty or program offices for consultations.
There are usually Wi-Fi-enabled areas, resource corners, and lounges or waiting areas where students can read, collaborate, or prepare before classes.
The environment is generally quiet and professional, aligning with the needs of adult learners.
How does UM Professional Schools – Tagum support research and thesis work?
Research is a core component of most graduate programs. The institution provides guidance through research-oriented courses,
methodology subjects, and consultation with advisers or panel members.
Students receive support in developing research proposals, designing methodologies, collecting data, and writing theses or capstone projects.
Workshops, group discussions, and faculty feedback help learners ensure that their research outputs are academically rigorous and relevant to local or sectoral issues.
What career benefits can I expect after finishing my graduate degree here?
Graduates of UM Professional Schools – Tagum often enjoy better promotion prospects, eligibility for higher-ranking positions, and improved professional credibility.
Teachers can qualify for roles such as department head, dean, or school administrator; public servants may move into supervisory or managerial roles;
business professionals can transition into executive, strategic, or entrepreneurial positions.
The combination of a recognized university name, solid research training, and practical coursework makes a UM graduate degree a valuable investment in long-term career growth.
