The Master of Arts in Advocacy and Equity Studies prepares students as professionals and civic activists to advance social justice, access, and inclusion through critical inquiry and change leadership. The program situates graduates at the intersection of diverse voices, including historically marginalized and minoritized voices, persons in positions of power, and agents of social change. Learning from the tradition of the liberal arts and its critique, the program supports these graduates to help communities meet their equity goals and apply the theory and practice of community-based research, grant funding, media creation, organizing, facilitation of dialogue, and listening.
Admissions Criteria
Students seeking admission to this Master of Arts program will be considered for admission provided they have completed their undergraduate studies with a cumulative GPA of 3.0, or, alternately, completion of undergraduate studies and two to three years of work experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion; community organizing; advocacy (broadly defined); or related fields.
Candidates will also submit:
- a graduate admissions application
- two recommendations
- GRE scores(optional)
- resume
- official transcripts from each higher education institution previously attended
Candidates may also be asked to complete an interview with program faculty or submit one or more statements about their connection to or desire to engage in the advocacy and equity studies program.
International Degree Candidates Initial Admission
Any applicant who is a non-U.S. citizen wishing to attend Furman University Graduate Studies programs as a degree- or non-degree seeking student is considered an international applicant. All international applicants are required to have transcripts from any non-U.S. institutions evaluated by a credentialing service. All applications, fees, documents, and requirements must be submitted online through our secure admissions site to Graduate Studies. Official GRE General Test Score(s) should be submitted to Graduate Studies directly from ETS.
Visa Information
Anyone already issued a valid U.S. visa (H-type or J-type), or a Permanent Residency Card, must submit copies of these documents as part of the application process. If an international applicant is seeking a student visa (F-1), the process for applying for this status will be addressed by the Dean of International Admission.
Application Deadlines for International Applicants
- Fall: March 15
- Spring: August 15
- Summer: January 15
It is important to note that if your program’s deadline is prior to the international deadline, you should have your materials in by the earlier deadline.
English Language Proficiency
All applicants whose primary language is not English must submit appropriate scores from either TOEFL or IELTS. All international graduate applicants must present one of the following as part of their online application: a TOEFL score of at least 577 on the paper-based test (pbt) or 90 on the internet-based test (ibt) or an IELTS score of at least 7.5. Applicants who take the TOEFL or IELTS must have the official score report sent to Graduate Studies directly from the testing service.
Applicants who have an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. institution are eligible to waive the TOEFL/IELTS requirement. Program directors may also petition Graduate Studies to waive this requirement on an individual basis.
Requirements
To graduate with an MA in Advocacy and Equity Studies, students complete 6 required courses (18 credits) and an additional 6 courses (18 credits) in elective coursework.
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