Incoming PhD students primarily start their program in the Fall semester. This is also when we appoint nearly all available Graduate Assistantships.
The Masters of Arts program can apply to either semester since the program is flexible and generally self-supporting.
To begin in a Fall Semester:
Competitive evaluation of applications to begin the program in a Fall semester (late August) will begin on the target date listed under the degree program on the graduate program page.. Offers of admission are sent out in the next couple weeks and continue until our available places are filled. Applications that arrive after the target date will be considered until the budgeted slots are filled.
To begin in a Spring Semester:
We admit most of our students to begin in a Fall semester. Occasionally we have a few places available to begin in the middle of an academic year, i.e., a Spring semester (mid January). Because of the structure of the program, a spring start is less difficult for students who already have a Masters degree. In most years we do not admit any students to begin in the Spring semester. If you would like to apply to start spring semester, it is best to email the graduate coordinator (physgpc@kent.edu) to see if we are planning to admit students in the spring. Such applications should need to be received by the target date listed under the degree program on the graduate program page.
Applicants Supported by an External Scholarship:
Applicants who do not need an assistantship from Kent State University (e.g., international students who have support from their home country) may apply at any time for Fall or Spring admission.