Transcript:
We only want transcripts from institutions where you received (or will receive) a degree. Please do not mail official paper transcripts.
Unofficial electronic transcripts should be attached to your electronic application. They should be drawn from documents generated by the institution. A scan of an official transcript is strongly preferred. However, an unofficial transcript or "academic history" generated by an online student portal may also be acceptable.
Electronic transcripts must clearly show the institution's name; the student's name; a list of all courses taken and all grades received; as well as the title and date of any degrees conferred. Electronic transcripts must be in PDF format.
Anything that appears to be self-generated or otherwise lacking in the information specified above will not be considered valid (this includes "copy and pasting" from a website) and may be grounds for declining an application. Illegible or indecipherable documents may also negatively impact an application. The department admissions committee reserves the right to require further documentation, up to and including an official transcript, prior to reaching a final decision.
Curriculum Vitae:
Resume is required.
Personal Statement:
A Statement of Purpose should convey additional information not available on your transcripts or resume. It should be approximately 2 pages in length and should offer a clear overview of your reasons for pursuing this graduate degree, your previous preparation, your research experience and interests, and your plans for seeing this degree through to completion. Other relevant information may also be included.
Recommendation Letter:
Letters from academic references are preferred but relevant professional references are also acceptable. Strong letters will be substantive, specific, and will address (1) an applicant's technical experience and research ability, (2) the applicant's likelihood of success in graduate-level studies, and (3) the relevance/appropriateness of the MSAA program for the applicant's future goals.