About the course

The study of folklore and folklife involves examination and analysis of traditional expressive culture in all its forms including verbal, musical, material, and customary. In every society, agricultural and industrial, rural and urban, folklore is a vital part of life. The discipline has affinities with literature, anthropology, sociology, history, geography, linguistics, philosophy, ethnomusicology, and psychology. Students in our renowned Master of Arts program in Folk Studies take a core of courses that provide them with a firm grounding in the theories and methods of the field of folklore, preparing them for further study in folklore and/or a wide range of careers. In addition to core requirements, students choose from electives that suit their interests. The MA program is designed as a two-year program for full-time students, but we are happy to work with students who prefer to complete the program on a part-time basis over a longer period of time. We also offer a JUMP (Joint Undergraduate-Master's Program) for highly qualified and motivated undergraduates.

　　Students in the Research Thesis concentration work with a committee of faculty advisors as they conduct independent research?from fieldwork to archives?and write a thesis in their second year of graduate study. This option provides advanced knowledge of the theoretical and methodological aspects of folklore and folklife and is designed to prepare students for both academic and public sector professions and for further academic research. Students work with the support of a committee of faculty members to conduct research and write a thesis on a folklore topic of their choosing. Scholarships - View all scholarships Internships

　　

Start dates and prices

Course fees are indicative and should be used as a guide. Speak to a counsellor to get an accurate price.

　　Duration: 4 Semester(s)Fees: US$34,308

Intake	Location
Spring (January), 2024	Bowling Green
Summer (May), 2024	Bowling Green
Fall (August), 2024	Bowling Green
Spring (January), 2025	Bowling Green
Summer (May), 2025	Bowling Green
Fall (August), 2025	Bowling Green
Spring (January), 2026	Bowling Green
Summer (May), 2026	Bowling Green

　　

How to apply

Entry requirements for Western Kentucky University

Adequate undergraduate preparation in a wide range of disciplines will be acceptable for admission to graduate study in folk studies. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. All applicants must submit three letters of reference, a statement of intent, and a writing sample to the department. Applicants must submit a minimum GAP score of 600.

　　Baccalaureate degree or higher, or equivalent international degree, from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.

　　Official transcripts demonstrating completion of bachelor?s degree from an accredited college or university & certified English translation

　　Any additional program requirements (writing samples, resume/vita, etc.)

　　Adequate academic preparation in the field of specialization

　　English proficiency requirements (one of the following):

　　TOEFL, IBT ? 79

　　IELTS ? 6.5

　　

English language requirements

　　6.5

　　Overall IELTS band score

　　Book IELTS

　　About IELTS

　　Practice and prepare

　　TOEFL Internet based overall score: 79.0

　　

Application deadline:

This date isn’t available – speak to an IDP counsellor to get detailed information.

　　

Further information

Career outcomesIf you aren’t eligible for the above entry requirements, you might want to explore pathway options at Western Kentucky University. If you want to find out more, please speak to our counsellors.

　　Pathway options to study at this institution

　　

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