Apply to Our Graduate Program

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If you don't have a background in folklore, don't worry! While some students come to our graduate program with undergraduate majors or minors in folklore, most enter the program with little or no academic background in the discipline.

We encourage you to contact the Folk Studies program director so that we can work with you to make your application process as smooth as possible. Let us know if you plan to come for a visit!

 

Requirements

• Potential students should review the general requirements for admission to all WKU graduate programs.
• Applicants to the Folk Studies graduate program must have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. 

 

Applying

The following must be submitted directly to the Graduate School:

• A complete application to the Graduate School
  • When you apply, you will be required to choose your Concentration within the degree (see the Graduate Catalog for requirements for each Concentration). If you are admitted and you later wish to change your concentration, you may do so in consultation with the Folk Studies Program Director.
• Official college transcripts
• GRE scores 
• English proficiency scores (international students)

In addition, applicants must submit the following directly to the Folk Studies program director:

• A statement of intent which describes the applicant's interest in Folk Studies and research/career plans (these generally run 2-3 pages)
• A resume
• A writing sample (there is no length or subject requirement; applicants should submit a writing sample they feel best reflects their research and writing abilities)
• Three letters of reference must be submitted on the student's behalf, directly to the Folk Studies director by the letter writers
• An application for a graduate assistantship (required only for those who want to be considered for assistantship funding)                         

Application & Admissions Timeline

We have a rolling admissions system (you can apply anytime), but it is best to apply earlier rather than later. In order to receive full consideration for graduate assistantship funding, we recommend that you submit all application materials by February 1 prior to the fall in which you hope to begin. Applications are welcome after that date, but please contact the program director if you are interested in applying for a graduate assistantship position after this date, as opportunities may or may not be available.  While the program is designed for students to begin in a fall co-hort, we also welcome applicants who would like to to start in the spring.

Additional information from the Graduate School for prospective students.