Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

About the school

Brandeis University's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, also known as GSAS, stands as a hub of groundbreaking exploration within the collaborative realm of a student-focused, mid-sized research institution. The school, founded in 1953, is committed to academic distinction and deep respect for knowledge acquisition.

The school comprises four divisions: Creative Arts, Division of Humanities, Division of Science, and Division of Social Sciences. It offers various postgraduate programmes, including MA in English, MA and MFA in Music Composition and Theory, MA and MS in Chemistry, and MA in Politics, among many others.

Location of the School

The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Brandeis University is in Waltham, Massachusetts, USA. It is one of four graduate schools on campus located at 415 South Street, Waltham, MA, 02453, just outside the educational hub of Boston. Its proximity to Boston offers easy access to everything the city provides.

Life at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

GSAS presents diverse avenues for students to engage in campus life beyond academic pursuits actively. The spectrum includes more than 200 student-led clubs and organisations catering to various interests. These encompass service-oriented groups, cultural awareness organisations, performing arts ensembles, spiritual and religious associations, sports and recreational clubs, student leadership and activism collectives, student publications, a television station (BTV), and a radio station (WBRS).

Furthermore, the university provides a multitude of options for sports and fitness activities. Students have access to a range of sports clubs, spanning disciplines like archery, badminton, ballet, basketball, boxing, climbing, equestrian, fencing, football (men's team), and numerous others.

The vibrant arts scene in the university is equally noteworthy. The institution curates an impressive array of arts events and performances all year round, including theatrical productions, concerts, and exhibitions. Notably, the Leonard Bernstein Festival of the Creative Arts stands out as a highlight—a campus-wide celebration of the arts.

Additional Benefits of Studying at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences promises a rigorous and rewarding experience with hands-on research and experiential learning. It extends an array of additional advantages to its students.

• Financial Assistance: The university provides diverse financial aid options to assist students in funding their education. Students can access a convenient monthly payment plan to distribute their educational costs across the academic year.

• Connected PhD Program: The school features a Connected PhD programme designed to equip humanities and social sciences students with skills and experiences pertinent to careers beyond academia.

• Community Engagement: The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences actively encourages student participation in community initiatives. Additionally, the school hosts a wide range of events and activities aimed at fostering community cohesion.

• Dual Degree Options: GSAS allows students to pursue two programmes and complete each degree about six months sooner. Some options are a dual MS/MBA in Biotechnology and a dual MA/EdM in Jewish Professional Leadership and Jewish Educational Leadership.

• Scholarships: International students in PhD programmes receive a full tuition scholarship, a competitive stipend in return for teaching and research, and health insurance benefits. Master's applicants may be eligible for merit scholarships and institutional need-based aid, depending on their program.

Admissions criteria

Students from diverse countries and backgrounds can be admitted to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Every programme follows an admissions process and requires applicants to provide specific details and documents. Although the process can be slightly different for national and international students, here are the general criteria:

Application form: All students must submit a complete application form and pay the applicable fees

Degree: Applicants must have obtained a bachelor's degree or the international equivalent

A Statement of Purpose: A one to three pages long statement of purpose stating your interest in the program and the reasons you chose it

A curriculum vitae/ resume

Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts of all graduate credits from previously attended schools

Letter of recommendation: Students must provide two or three recommendation letters based on the program requirements

GPA: There is no GPA or a standardized test score cutoff. Applicants are considered and reviewed holistically on the basis of various factors

Enrollment deposit: Applicants, except Brandeis alums and scholarship students, must submit the enrollment deposit once they complete the Admission Response Form

Selected international applicants must submit the score of English proficiency tests to prove their fluency. The accepted exams and the required minimum score are: TOEFL: 100 TOEFL (Revised paper-delivered test): 600 Duolingo English test: 130 IELTS academic test: 7 PTE academic test: 68

It is essential to note that the requirements can vary depending on the programme. You may need to submit additional information like a writing sample, portfolio, and attend an interview. Please consult the official website to learn more about the admissions and financial aid details, as well as any updates.

Job placements

Brandeis University maintains an impressive placement rate and offers equal opportunities to all students. Over 97% of students are employed, attending graduate school, or engaged in other meaningful activities within six months of graduation on average. The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences facilitates Past Career Seminars and Discipline-Specific Interviews to assist students with various career development aspects.

The school offers several tools to help students secure job opportunities. ImaginePhD is one such career exploration and planning tool for humanities and social sciences. The school also hosts how-to seminars and career conversations to explore how to transition into careers. Students can also use self-assessment tools and job search resources to evaluate their skills and interests to find a suitable career path.