The WRTC Graduate Program Application Process

• Research statement (2-3 pages)
  • Should explain how the WRTC graduate program relates to the applicant's prior experience
  • Should identify a few specific faculty whose research agendas speak to the applicant's own interests (Link to WRTC Graduate Faculty Research Interests)
  • Should explain how the program fits into the applicant's long-term professional/academic goals
• Academic and/or professional work samples
  • 20-30 pages (or equivalent) comprised of one or more documents
  • Print, electronic, digital, multi-modal and other similar documents may be included
  • Should compliment applicant's research statement, demonstrate applicant's strength as a communicator and may include an overall statement explaining the context and relevancy of the documents
• Three or more letters of recommendation
  • Should be from past or present faculty members in any discipline who are qualified based on direct experience with the student to comment on the applicant's academic preparation and professional experience
  • May also be from current or recent supervisors in a professional employment or internship position
  • Should focus on applicant's communication abilities
• Transcripts
  • Unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions should be uploaded with your electronic application and may be used for departmental admission review purposes
  • If offered admission, official transcripts from any institution from which a degree has been awarded must be submitted to the JMU Graduate School to finalize admission. Transcripts are considered official if they are sent to JMU directly from the issuing institution.
• Test Requirements
  • No exams required

Fall Admission

Online applications for Fall admission will be considered from Oct. 15 until April 1 or until all available seats in the program are filled.

To ensure consideration for a Graduate Assistanship, all application materials must be submitted by February 1.

Applicants will be notified in mid-February of their application status.

Links to Resources

Online Application Requires a non-refundable application fee

Check the status of your submitted application

PDF of application process and faculty research interests

For additional program questions or to schedule an informational meeting, please contact:

Dr. Jennifer Almjeld
WRTC Graduate Program Director
almjeljm@jmu.edu
540.568.8070