M.A. in Folk Studies

Entry Requirements for International Students at Western Kentucky University (WKU):

Application Fees : US$ 95

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • For postgraduate (master's) programs, international students are required to have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution  The minimum academic requirement is a GPA equivalent to 60% and above.
      

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 79.
      

3. Standardized Tests:  

   • GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A minimum score of 294.

Scholarships for International Students at Western Kentucky University:

1. International Freshman Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for new, first-time international undergraduate students. The award amount varies and is based on academic merit and achievements. Students are automatically considered for this scholarship upon admission.

2. International Transfer Scholarship: Aimed at international undergraduate students transferring from another institution. The scholarship amount depends on the student's academic achievements and is automatically considered during the admission process.

3. International Graduate Assistantships: Available for international students pursuing graduate-level studies at WKU. Graduate assistantships may include a tuition waiver and a stipend in exchange for part-time work in areas such as teaching, research, or administrative roles.

4. Spirit of WKU Scholarship: Open to both undergraduate and graduate international students. Awarded based on a combination of academic merit, leadership qualities, and involvement in extracurricular activities.

5. WKU Academic Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to high-achieving students, including international students, based on their academic credentials. The selection is competitive, and the amount varies.

6. Cultural Diversity Scholarship: Aimed at promoting diversity on campus, this scholarship is available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. Awarded based on the student's commitment to promoting diversity and cultural understanding.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at WKU offer scholarships to international students within specific fields of study. Eligibility and award amounts may vary by department.

8. International Student Diplomat Scholarship: Awarded to international students who serve as cultural ambassadors and contribute significantly to campus diversity. Recognizes students who actively participate in promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

9. Study Abroad Scholarships: WKU offers scholarships for international students interested in participating in study abroad programs. These scholarships can support students in gaining global experiences and perspectives.

Graduates of Western Kentucky University's Master of Arts (M.A.) in Folk Studies program are well-positioned for engaging and impactful career prospects in the fields of cultural heritage, public folklore, and community engagement. This program equips students with a deep understanding of folk traditions, cultural preservation, and effective methods for collaborating with diverse communities. Western Kentucky University's M.A. in Folk Studies program opens doors to a range of fulfilling career opportunities that blend cultural appreciation, community engagement, and scholarly research. Whether in museums, educational institutions, community organizations, or government agencies, program alumni emerge as advocates for the preservation and celebration of cultural diversity.

1. Museum Curator: Graduates may pursue careers as museum curators, specializing in folklore and cultural exhibits. They work to curate and preserve artifacts, oral histories, and traditional crafts, contributing to the cultural enrichment of museum visitors.

2. Cultural Heritage Manager: Professionals can work as cultural heritage managers, overseeing projects that focus on preserving and promoting cultural traditions. This role involves collaborating with communities, advocating for cultural preservation, and managing initiatives that celebrate cultural diversity.

3. Folklorist: Graduates may work as folklorists, conducting research, documenting traditions, and publishing scholarly works on folklore. They may collaborate with academic institutions, cultural organizations, or governmental agencies to contribute to the academic discourse on folk studies.

4. Community Outreach Coordinator: With a focus on community engagement, individuals can pursue careers as community outreach coordinators. They work with cultural organizations, non-profits, or governmental agencies to develop programs and initiatives that celebrate and preserve local traditions.

5. Public Programs Manager: Professionals may specialize in public programs management, organizing events, festivals, and public programs that showcase and celebrate cultural traditions. This role involves coordinating with communities to ensure meaningful and authentic representations.

6. Cultural Consultant: Graduates can work as cultural consultants, providing expertise to organizations, businesses, or government entities seeking to understand and respect diverse cultural practices. They may offer guidance on cultural sensitivity, inclusivity, and community collaboration.

7. Educator/Teacher: With their expertise in folklore and cultural studies, individuals may pursue careers as educators or teachers. They can teach at the high school or college level, integrating folklore into curriculum design and fostering an appreciation for cultural diversity among students.

8. Archivist: Professionals may work as archivists, managing collections of cultural artifacts, oral histories, and documentation. They play a crucial role in preserving and organizing materials that contribute to the historical record of communities.

9. Tourism Development Specialist: Graduates may explore careers in tourism development, working with communities to highlight and promote their cultural heritage as a means of attracting visitors. This role contributes to economic development while fostering cultural exchange.

10. Non-Profit Program Director: With a commitment to community service, individuals can pursue roles as program directors in non-profit organizations. They may lead initiatives focused on cultural preservation, community development, and the promotion of diverse traditions.