Designed to develop high-quality leadership and expertise the PUP Graduate School stands as a testament to advanced education. It aims to improve students’ competence. This includes their skills as scholars and researchers. It also enhances their abilities as teacher administrators and professionals. The PUP Graduate School enhances leadership qualities. It improves decision-making ability. It fosters independent thought and a professional attitude.
Established in 1970 the PUP Graduate School has a rich history. It was founded under Dr. Nemesio E. Prudente. This was by virtue of RA 6089. This authorized the Philippine College of Commerce to expand its course offerings. Dr. Hernani P. Esteban served as its first dean. The school’s primary purpose was to provide advanced studies in business and business education.
Classes officially began on July 20 1971. They offered a Master in Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Business Education. The Master of Arts in Business Education was unique in the country. It aimed to develop a deeper understanding of business traditions. It also focused on values and trends. The curriculum equipped students with relevant knowledge and skills. They could effectively execute their roles as business teachers or administrators.
Martial Law in 1972 temporarily closed the Philippine College of Commerce including the PUP Graduate School. After reopening Dr. Narciso Albarracin was designated Officer-in-Charge. In December 1973 Prof Isabelo T Crisostomo took over. He served until his appointment as President in 1974. Dr. Flora G Gonzales then became the dean.
During Dean Gonzales’s tenure the Faculty of Graduate Studies became the Graduate School. It reexamined its curricula to meet new societal needs. This included revisions to old courses and adding new ones. These changes aimed to serve undergraduate faculty alumni and students from various sectors.
The academic year 1973-1974 was a milestone. The PUP Graduate School produced its first graduate with a Master in Business Administration degree. The school codified its standards and regulations. The Graduate Forum publication was launched. Efforts focused on curriculum development and research grants.
In 1975-1976 two curricula were added. One was a Master in Public Administration. The other was a Teacher Certificate Program for Business and Distributive Arts. This non-degree program addressed the need for business teachers at the secondary level.
In 1977 Dr. Pablo T Mateo Jr became the acting president. Dr Flora G Gonzales served as Executive Vice President and concurrent Dean. In 1978 the Philippine College of Commerce became the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. This allowed the PUP Graduate School to broaden its offerings.
Two doctorate programs were introduced. These were the Doctor in Business Administration and Doctor in Public Administration. In 1979-1980 a Master in Applied Statistics was offered with the National Census and Statistics Office.
In 1989-1990 the PUP Graduate School moved to a refurbished building on Valencia Street. New programs like Master in Mass Communication were introduced in the 1990s.
Dr Victoria C Naval became Dean in 1998. She implemented a five-year development plan. This plan focused on enhancing program quality management and research.
Dr Juan C Birion became Graduate School Dean in 2007. He upgraded facilities and strengthened research. Dr Amalia Cullarin-Rosales took over as Dean. She focused on publications cultural activities and preparing for Level III Accreditation.
Today the PUP Graduate School continues to uphold its mission. It provides quality education. It molds students for service to the country. Its modern facilities and dedicated faculty ensure a transformative experience. It empowers graduates to lead and contribute to society.