Frequently Asked Questions

We do not require the GRE for admission to any of our graduate programs. For up-to-date admissions information, please visit that program’s admission page.

Special Education Master’s

• 2 letters of recommendation
• Resume or CV
• Statement of Purpose
• Unofficial transcript(s)

Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling MS

• 3 letters of recommendation
• Resume or CV
• Statement of Purpose
• Unofficial transcript(s)

Special Education PhD 

• 3 letters of recommendation
• Resume or CV
• Statement of Purpose
• Writing Sample (maximum 20 pages)
• Unofficial transcript(s)

Rehabilitation Counselor Education PhD

• 3 letters of recommendation
• Resume or CV
• Statement of Purpose
• Writing Sample (maximum 20 pages)
• Unofficial transcript(s)

No. We pride ourselves in building a community of teachers, researchers, and advocates in our programs. This is accomplished through in-person courses, seminars, and research. 

The RPSE department, along with the School of Education, offers a variety of funding opportunities for it’s master’s and doctoral students.  Please see our Funding and Financial Aid page for up-to-date information.

Applicants are expected to meet general requirements for admission to the Graduate School. The admissions committee considers a variety of factors including academic preparation, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and professional experiences.

The Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling master’s program suggests applicants review the Statement of Purpose Guidelines for further direction.

Rehabilitation Counselor Education

The following factors will be considered by the admissions committee: aptitude for doctoral-level study, relevance of prior academic work and career goals, stated goals for doctoral study, employment history, potential success in forming effective counseling relationships, respect for cultural differences, evidence of writing and research skills, and letters of recommendation.

Special Education

Applicants are expected to meet general requirements for admission to the Graduate School. The admissions committee considers a variety of factors including aptitude for doctoral-level study, relevance of prior academic work and career goals, stated goals for doctoral study, respect for cultural differences, evidence of writing and research skills. Recommendation letters are also considered. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required for admission to this program.

Admission requirements for international applicants varies by country.  Please see the Graduate School’s Requirements for Admission, choose your country, and read the requirements carefully.  English proficiency requirements are also found on this page.

Master’s program applicants should describe their interest in the field, relevant professional experience, research experience, and professional goals. There is no word or length requirement but 1-2 pages is preferred.

Doctoral program applicants are encouraged to discuss the above as well as their research interests and a 1-2 potential faculty you would like to work with.  There is no word or length requirement but 2-3 pages is preferred.

Please address any past academic issues or concerns.

For information about reentry into the major as an undergraduate student, please visit the Transfer and Reentry page. For information about reentry into the major as a graduate student, please contact Kayla Armstrong (armstrongalf@wisc.edu).