PS Statement of Intellectual Interests (500-750 words): We are interested in knowing why you wish to pursue a Ph.D. in African American Studies. You may let us know by telling us about the area or areas of African American Studies that interest you (You should ensure that your interests connect with those of the faculty in the Du Bois Department). That is, what do you anticipate your research and scholarship will focus on during your graduate studies? While we do not seek a personal statement, you would benefit by telling us—very briefly—what influenced your decision to pursue African American Studies at the graduate level. We are training scholars, so we would like to know as well what you plan to do after earning the PhD. This statement and the writing sample carry a great deal of weight during the admissions process. GPA Students whom we have admitted in the past, however, do not generally have an undergraduate GPA of less than 3.0, and on average, students admitted to the Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies have GPAs in the range or 3.3-3.5 if admitted with undergraduate degrees and 3.0 or more if admitted with a graduate degree. Fee A non-refundable $75 application fee must be submitted with the application. RL Three letters of recommendation. While character plays a part in any assessment of students' abilities, we are not looking for general character references. We are seeking insights on your intellectual abilities, writing and research skills, and a commitment to high-quality course work. The best letters would come from a faculty person who is familiar with your work in African American studies or a related area.  Transcript If they are not mailed directly from the college/university, they should be enclosed in sealed envelopes signed by the college/university.  If the official transcripts and/or degree certificate(s) are not in English, notarized English language translations in duplicate must accompany them. Do not list colleges/universities where (eight) 8 or fewer credits were taken.