Basic Admission Requirements

Any student with a U.S. bachelor’s degree or a comparable foreign degree from a recognized college or university may apply to the Graduate School dean for admission. Applicants with the necessary background for their chosen major field, an excellent scholastic record from an approved college or university, and appropriate professional qualifications may be admitted for graduate work on recommendation of the graduate faculty in the proposed major field and approval of the Graduate School dean. The Graduate School operational standard for admission is an undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.00. Many programs prefer a higher GPA. Applicants should consult the program to which they are applying for more specific information about admission standards.

Graduate School Commitment to Diversity—The Graduate School embraces the University of Minnesota’s position that promoting and supporting diversity among the student body is central to the academic mission of the University. The Graduate School defines diversity to encompass many characteristics including economic disadvantage, special talents, evidence of leadership qualities, race or ethnicity, a strong work record, and disability. A diverse student body enriches graduate education by providing a multiplicity of views and perspectives that enhance research, teaching, and the development of new knowledge. A diverse mix of students promotes respect for, and opportunities to learn from, others with the broad range of backgrounds and experiences that constitute modern society. Higher education trains the next generation of leaders of academia and society in general, and such opportunities for leadership should be accessible to all members of society. The Graduate School and its constituent graduate programs are therefore committed to providing equal access to educational opportunities through recruitment, admission, and support programs that promote diversity, foster successful academic experiences, and cultivate the leaders of the next generation.

For more information on admission requirements and application procedures, contact the proposed major field at the address or phone number listed with each program in the Degree Program and Faculty section of this catalog.