Master of Philosophy in Liberal Arts (MPhil)
In order to apply to the MPhil degree program, applicants must already have earned a postbaccalaureate degree (i.e., MA, MS, MD, JD). Students who wish to pursue the Master of Philosophy in Liberal Arts (MPhil) may apply for admission to the degree program prior to taking GLS courses or after taking a few courses as a non-degree student. Up to four classes taken prior to the semester of matriculation as a degree candidate will be applied toward a degree.Students seeking to transfer credits from another institution should contact the GLS office as soon as possible.
Students who do not require a visa for study should apply during the semester immediately preceding the term in which they wish to begin their degree studies. International students should apply at least 10 weeks prior to the beginning of the semester in which they would like to begin their studies.
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Complete your online application.
Academic Writing Sample
The academic writing sample must be an academic essay supported by research which meets the standard of graduate-level writing. The Admission Committee will evaluate your intellectual and academic preparedness for graduate-level writing. Wesleyan Graduate Liberal Studies seeks applicants who have serious academic interests and can articulate thoughtful, coherent arguments supported by appropriate, properly cited materials. The academic writing sample should be prepared exclusively by the applicant and will be reviewed using the following rubric:
- written in an academic (not colloquial or conversational) style
- topic clearly fits within the target concentration of arts, humanities, mathematics, sciences or social sciences
- clearly states a position, provides support for the position, acknowledges contrary considerations, and comes to a conclusion
- strong grasp of grammar, usage and spelling, as well as organization and structure
- demonstrated excellence in editing (i.e., organization, spelling, grammar, syntax)
- clarity of expression
- creativity and originality of thought
- correct and appropriate use of cited material according to standard academic convention (i.e., MLA, Chicago)
Applicants whose work does not meet these criteria will not be considered for admission. Applicants whose work minimally meets these criteria may be invited to reapply after taking a Graduate Liberal Studies course with a foundational writing option.
The sample may be excerpted from a longer work, and must have been written within the past five years. If the writing sample was submitted as coursework or for publication, the sample must include the title of the class or publication and the original date of submission.
Applicants who do not already have an appropriate writing sample from previous academic coursework may request guidelines from the GLS office at masters@wesleyan.edu in order to prepare an essay for admission.
Statement of Academic Intent
The statement of academic intent, not to exceed 250 words, should be prepared exclusively by the applicant and address one or more of the following:
- Why are you choosing to pursue graduate work at this time?
- Are there specific areas of knowledge in which you hope to develop expertise?
- If you have had the opportunity to perform research on the topics that interest you, casually or in an academic setting, please describe.
- Any additional information that you feel is relevant to your application.
Transcripts
Students applying for the MPhil degree program who have completed their graduate work at another institution must request their undergraduate and graduate degree-granting institutions to send transcripts directly to the GLS office. Electronic transcripts can be sent to masters@wesleyan.edu and hard copies can be mailed to Graduate Liberal Studies, Wesleyan University, 74 Wyllys Avenue, Middletown, CT 06459.
Immunization Cover Sheet
Proof of immunization documentation is a Connecticut State requirement for matriculants to degree study. Students must submit the immunization form with documentation demonstrating compliance with the State of Connecticut's requirements for immunizations to Wesleyan Health Services.
School Report
Enter a School Official from the last institution that you attended (prompt appears in online application). If you are unsure who to enter, the Registrar’s Office at your last institution is a common contact for the School Official Report. An email will automatically be sent to the school official that you entered when you submit your application. Contact masters@wesleyan.edu if you have questions regarding this report.
Academic Recommendations
Two letters of academic recommendation must be completed online by the recommenders. The academic recommendation request can only be accessed through the online application. Recommenders should be individuals who have taught you in a post-secondary academic setting and can speak to your qualities as a student. Recommendations from employers, friends or family members will not be considered and may jeopardize your application to degree admission.
TOEFL Exam Score
Required if an applicant's native language is not English; IELTS test results will also be considered. The minimally acceptable TOEFL score for graduate work is 100, and the minimally acceptable IELTS score is a 7.