College of Arts and Sciences

About the school

The College of Arts and Sciences at Western Michigan University (WMU) in Kalamazoo, Michigan, offers diverse academic programmes that allow students to explore their intellectual interests while developing valuable skills for future professional careers. The College’s faculty are renowned for their expertise, ranking among the finest scholars and researchers.

It is part of Western Michigan University. Initially established in 1903 as the Western State Normal School to train teachers, it became Western Michigan University in 1957. The University is consistently ranked among the top 100 in the nation for six graduate programmes by U.S. News & World Report.

Notable alumni from the College include Mike Burns (senior director of Supply Chain, Blommer Chocolate Company), Jenny Doezema (vice president for Learning and Engagement, Kalamazoo Nature Center), and Dr. Elias Garratt (Diamond Crystal Growth scientist, General Technical Services/Army Research Laboratory), among others.

Kalamazoo is a welcoming and inclusive city with a thriving cultural scene and beautiful natural surroundings. The city is also home to a strong sense of community, which can be beneficial for students.

Location of the school

Life at the College of Arts and Sciences

At the College of Arts and Sciences at Western Michigan University, students experience a vibrant campus culture with over 300 Registered Student Organizations and clubs. With more than 4,000 events held annually, including those organised by the Campus Activities Board and Greek Life, students have ample chances to engage in campus life and make lasting connections.

WMU provides diverse housing options, from residence halls to Living Learning Communities (LLC) and apartments. It allows students to choose what aligns best with their needs and interests. Residence halls typically feature double-occupancy rooms, promoting a sense of community. The University's apartments include the modern Arcadia Flats, historic Spindler Hall on East Campus, and Western View, located west of the main campus.

Western Michigan University's College of Arts and Sciences is committed to student well-being. It extends to dining options, including the New Student Center Dining, Valley Dining Center, and campus cafes like Bistro BTL and Cafe 1903. Meal plans provide students access to these on-campus dining options, ensuring convenience and variety.

The University prioritises its students' health and fitness by providing the impressive Student Recreation Center, a $32 million facility with amenities such as an aerobic room, F45 Functional Training Studio, indoor basketball courts, a cycling studio, a fitness testing lab, and more. The University also provides free bus transportation to students on and off campus via the Bronco Transit Bus Service, improving accessibility and convenience.

Additional benefits of studying at the College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences at Western Michigan University provides additional benefits that enhance the academic experience. The WMU Signature is a noteworthy programme and is a special initiative through which students may apply what they have learned to real-world challenges. These experiences are tailored to each student's path and objective, supporting personal development and skill development.

Students can also make use of Student Success Services, which connects them to academic aid programmes and resources to help them reach their objectives. The Bronco Study Zone is an all-inclusive resource for academic support, and the Learning Assistant Program offers in-class assistance as well as weekly review sessions to help students improve their study skills and course understanding. These programmes help students succeed academically.

Admissions criteria

International students applying to graduate programmes at the College of Arts and Sciences at Western Michigan University should adhere to the following general admission criteria:

• The online application form
• A personal or autobiographical statement written by the applicant
• Three letters of recommendation
• GRE scores (if required)
• Proof of proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS), if requested
• Resume

Please visit the School's official website for further information on admission requirements and papers required.

Job placements

93% of students graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences at Western Michigan University (WMU) are either working or continuing their education. The College’s Career and Student Employment Services provide extensive resources to students.

Cafe Critique or Career Zone ensures students receive personalised career advice and coaching, resume reviews, and resources for exploring career options. It also helps them find jobs, and prepare for interviews and negotiating contracts. Career Academy conducts a series of workshops that help students develop their career and job search skills, and Handshake: makes student profiles visible to potential employers. Students can use Handshake to find jobs, internships, and events and to schedule career counselling sessions.