MA program applicants should present the equivalent of an undergraduate major in their language, including a range of courses in literature, culture and humanities. They also should show strong language skills and familiarity with the target culture, often including study or experience abroad.
PhD program applicants must have an MA or equivalent with strong preparation in the target culture, excellent language skills, critical thinking, and the potential to complete a doctoral dissertation.
| Item | For |
|---|---|
| Application | Graduate Studies |
| Unofficial transcripts | Graduate Studies and the department |
| Proof of English proficiency, TOEFL (international students) | Graduate Studies |
| Financial Resource Certification and supporting funding (international students) | Graduate Studies |
| Three Letters of Recommendation | The department |
| Statement of Purpose Supply an approximately 500-word personal statement, written in English, in which you discuss your preparation and motivation for graduate study at our department, your intellectual interests, research abilities, academic and work experience (current and former studies, experience outside the US, etc.), and your professional goals. Indicate whether or not you are applying for an assistantship and describe any previous teaching experience. | The department |
| Writing sample The writing sample should be at least 10 pages, written in the target language, and demonstrate your potential to research and analyze culture and literary texts. We will be evaluating your ability to use the target language, to write effective essays, to do research, and analyze literature and culture. The best sample is a research paper from an advanced or senior class in your field. This is especially important for applicants to the doctoral program. If you do not have one available, contact the graduate advisor in your language about a substitute, for example, an essay or a research paper from a related discipline. Generally, creative writing is not appropriate. | The department |
| Voice recording The oral sample should include two statements, both three to four minutes long, one in English and the other in the target language. You can discuss the same topics as in the personal statement. We prefer that you do not read the statements, but “speak” them. The versions in English and the target language usually cover the same material. The voice recording must be uploaded as an mp3 file. | The department |
| Curriculum Vitae (required for PhD applicants; recommended for MA applicants) | The department |
To apply, there is a $50 non-refundable application fee.
Teaching assistantship applications are due February 1.
Contact
1111 Oldfather Hall
660 N 12th St
Lincoln NE 68588-0315
402-472-3745
modlang@unl.edu