College of Communication & Creative Arts - Writing Arts
Application Procedures
Detailed information about the application process can be found on the Graduate School webpage.
In addition to the basic application materials required by the Graduate School, the MA in Writing program requires
• GRE scores
• two letters of recommendation
• a statement of objectives/purpose
• an 8-10 page writing sample
Below is additional information about each component and some suggestions for putting together a successful application.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test with three parts: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning and Analytical Writing. While we do look at scores in each section, we are primarily concerned with your Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing skills. The GRE is administered by the Educational Testing Service, and you can find information about the test, test preparation and score reporting on their website.
Rowan seniors in their last semester or Rowan alumni who have graduated within the past three years with a GPA of 3.8 or above may be eligible for Honors Admission. Students who meet all the requirements for Honors Admission will have the GRE waived. Please contact the Graduate School for the most up-to-date information about requirements.
Letters of recommendation should come from current or former professors or from work supervisors familiar with your writing and communication skills. Do not ask family or friends for recommendations. If possible, it is helpful to ask recommenders for their support long before the application is due. Many recommenders prefer 4-6 weeks to work on the letter. Information about submitting recommendation forms and letters can be found on the Graduate School website.
The statement of objectives/purpose is an absolutely crucial part of the application packet. It is your chance to tell the admissions committee about who you are as a writer. We almost always read the statement first! You should convey what you would like to accomplish in the MA Writing program here at Rowan. Tell us about your intellectual or creative goals. Explain ways you plan to challenge yourself. And show us what you can contribute to our community of writers.
Your writing sample(s) should showcase your talents and abilities. Select pieces that you are proud of. Creative pieces, academic papers, published clips, or several representative entries from your blog are all acceptable. Feel free to send multiple pieces, such as a paper written for a course and a selection of 3-4 poems, for example. If you have questions about what to submit, please contact the MA Coordinator, Jennifer Courtney.
For additional information about graduate schools and tips for applying, please click here.
