Application Requirements and Review Process
Our admissions process employs a holistic approach, ensuring that each applicant is thoroughly evaluated based on all submitted materials. We recognize the unique qualities of each applicant, considering a variety of evidence to assess their academic and scholarly potential, alignment with the program, non-traditional learning experiences, leadership and community involvement, and professional achievements. This comprehensive evaluation allows the admissions committee to gain a comprehensive understanding of each applicant, rather than focusing solely on one aspect.
Application Requirements
Only completed applications will undergo evaluation. An application is deemed complete when the following documents are received by WSU Graduate School:
- Application form
- Application fee
- Official transcripts from all colleges attended
- Three letters of recommendation
- A Statement of Purpose (maximum 1000 words) outlining your reasons for applying, research interests, relevant experiences, and career goals. You should also specify faculty members you are interested in working with, noting their location. Please only list faculty members at the location to which you are applying
- A writing sample, such as a research paper, publication, or presentation, demonstrating your abilities and interests.
- Supporting materials. Examples of acceptable supporting materials that provide evidence for potential success in graduate study:
- Analysis, presentation, report, or campaign produced for a work assignment.
- Graduate Record Examination (G.R.E.) scores on the verbal, quantitative, and analytic aptitude tests. For students applying to enter the program for the next academic year, we are not requiring GRE scores. If they are submitted, they will be considered during the application review process in context with additional materials that the student elects to submit for consideration.
If you are a WSU employee working at a research and extension center or at a county extension office, and you plan to take your classes from your WSU place of employment, you can choose faculty members from any of the three campuses.
Admission Decisions
Admission to the Prevention Science graduate program is competitive and determined by the Prevention Science Graduate Committee. Applicants should aim for a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, though typically admitted students have GPAs between 3.5 and 4.0. The committee evaluates various factors including letters of recommendation, the letter of intent, and performance in related coursework. Previous performance in an advanced degree program may also be considered. While a major in prevention science related areas is not required, relevant coursework is strongly recommended. Transcripts will be reviewed carefully, and the committee will make recommendations regarding coursework necessary prior to admission. The department requires the prospective student to have had a least one undergraduate course in research methodology. A course in basic statistics is highly recommended.
International applicants must meet additional requirements set by the Office of International Programs. Requirements include verification of financial support, visa status, and English proficiency (applicants from countries in which English is not the native language are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language [TOEFL]). Final clearance must be received from the Office of International Programs before a recommendation can be made to the Graduate School.