Master’s program admission

In order to be considered for admission into the master’s program, you’ll need to submit the following:

  1. A completed application form. Fill it out online or .
  2. Application fee of $25 (U.S.). Can be paid by credit card when you fill out the online application, or by check or money order.
  3. Official transcripts from each college or university attended.
  4. Three references (including one academic and one professional). Only two letters required when applying for a graduate certificate.
  5. A typewritten 4-5 page, double-spaced essay outlining why you are interested in this program, your objectives in pursuing this degree, and how the program fits into your long-term goals. For the graduate certificate, you may submit a two-page, double-spaced essay.
  6. A current resume or curriculum vitae.
  7. OPTIONAL: scholarship form.

For international applicants:

  1. Applicants whose native language is not English must submit scores for either the TOEFL or IELTS test. EMU requires a 550 on the paper TOEFL or its equivalent (Institutional code: 5181).
  2. A financial certificate demonstrating the student’s ability to pay is required after admission in order for the program to issue a student visa application (I-20 form).

*All forms—everything EXCEPT transcripts—can be emailed to cjp@emu.edu. Otherwise, please mail them to the Center for Justice & Peacebuilding, 1200 Park Rd., Harrisonburg, VA 22802, USA.

Applicants must have an undergraduate degree, preferably in the social sciences. Preference is given to those with at least two years of experience in mediation, community development or relief work, advocacy, restorative justice, working with traumatized populations or related areas.

Applicants should have an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75 (on a four-point scale). However, those who have a weaker academic background but extensive experience in the peacebuilding field are welcome to apply; if all other admissions requirements are met, the applicant may be conditionally admitted. If the student makes a 3.0 GPA in his or her first semester of studies, the student’s probation status is removed and he or she is considered fully admitted.

Deadlines for admission: Those wishing to start the program in the fall semester, as well as those wishing to be considered for some financial assistance should apply no later than February 15. After this date, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as long as there is space in the program. Submissions will not be reviewed until the application is complete.

If you have any questions, please contact Lora Steiner at or 540-432-4689.

Application fee (non-refundable) $25
Tuition (per credit hour) $600
Auditing (per hour) $145
Activity fee, 1-9 credit hours (charge per credit hour) $2
Activity fee, 9+ (charge per semester) $23
Graduation fee – M.A. $60
Graduation fee – G.C. $25

(Published rates may be adjusted for changes in economic conditions and cost factors.)

Approximate costs for one year of study

Questions?