Admissions for Graduate Studies in English

Admission is based on undergraduate and graduate GPA, a statement of purpose, a writing sample, and other information provided by the student. GRE scores are not required. Applications are accepted according to the admissions deadlines set by the Graduate School, and students may enroll in any semester. However, students should be aware that the priority deadline for those applying for graduate assistantships is February 23 (for the following fall). See Graduate Assistantships.

Starting Spring 2023, the Gulf State Promise will waive out-of-state tuition fees for residents of Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida for graduate students. Find out more about the Gulf State Promise here.

Follow the instructions below to apply for admission.

Have Questions?

Elizabeth Steeby
Coordinator of Graduate Studies
Phone: 504-280-5422
Email: esteeby@uno.edu

Graduate English Office
Phone: 504-280-6276
Email: gradenglish@uno.edu

1. Write a Statement of Purpose

Write a 600-900 word statement of purpose, and submit this with the online application when prompted. Describe your intellectual interests and background and your academic and career goals. Some questions to consider:

Why do you want to get an M.A. in English?
Why do you want to study at UNO?
What are you hoping to get out of your degree?

2. Provide a Writing Sample

Select a writing sample of 7-20 pages; a selection of shorter papers may suffice. Normally, the writing sample will be an academic paper, such as an essay written for an English course, though you might submit something written for another course. An optional writing sample might include professional writing of a similar length. No creative writing, please. If you have questions about what to submit, contact the Graduate Coordinator.

3. Apply Online to the University

An official application to the University is required. Please read the application instructions.

Go to the online application

4. Submit Your Official Transcripts

Forward all transcripts to Admissions. Do not send transcripts to the Department of English & Foreign Languages. No letters of recommendation are required unless you are applying for a graduate assistantship.