Clark Atlanta University serves a diverse graduate student body Clark Atlanta University offers advanced degree and non-degree certificate programs through our four schools:
These schools are focused on leadership development, professional ethics, and the highest caliber of instruction and research excellence.
Graduate studies at Clark Atlanta University dates back to the 1865 beginnings of one of its founding institutions, Atlanta University— the nation’s oldest private graduate institution serving a predominantly African American student body.
This 150-year legacy continues as CAU prepares graduate students for distinguished careers in research, teaching, and as experts in the public and private sectors.
Admission Requirements
Admission decisions are based on many factors, such as the quality of the applicant’s prior academic degree and record of accomplishment, letters of recommendation from professors or others familiar with the applicant’s academic work, and performance in aptitude and achievement tests.
CAU considers GRE scores and GMAT, alongside several other factors during the application review process. CAU also considers relevant work experience, preparation in the proposed field of study, and the connection of the applicant’s academic goals with the faculty’s research interests.
- Official Transcripts
- Standardized Test Scores
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
Graduate Studies programs may also warrant additional requirements.
Always check with the program you are applying to, to make sure you understand all requirements.
How to Apply
Applicants for Graduate Studies Programs at CAU should complete and submit an Application Package.
Admissions Requirements
Students seeking admission to Clark Atlanta University must submit an application for admission to the University. Completing the application form online will activate your admissions file.
- Completed and signed application.
- Application fee in the amount of $40. The application fee for an international applicant is $55 U.S. dollars. The application fee will not be waived and is non-refundable.
- An official transcript from each undergraduate and graduate institution you have attended. Transcripts must be sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions from the institution’s Office of the Registrar. A transcript which has been “issued to the student” will not be accepted.
- As of September 16th 2020, the GRE and GMAT are no longer a requirement.
- Three recommendation letters: two from former instructors and one from an employer or supervisor. If the applicant has not attended school for two years then all three recommendations may come from an employer or supervisor. The letters of recommendation can be submitted by email to GraduateAdmissions@cau.edu
- Resume, which can be submitted by email to GraduateAdmissions@cau.edu.
- A letter of intent which discusses career goals, reasons for applying to Clark Atlanta University, and qualifications for admission. Contact the program office of your intended area of study for additional details. The letter of intent can be submitted by email to GraduateAdmissions@cau.edu.
- For MA in African American Studies, Africana Women’s Studies, History, English & Languages and Ph.D. in Humanities the following is required: a 10-page writing sample that demonstrates your academic preparation for graduate studies. The essay should be a scholarly example, preferably from a prior course, that reflects the content and structure of your research interest in the degree area to which you are applying. Must include bibliography and citations.
School of Education Only:
- A letter of intent which discusses career goals, reasons for applying to Clark Atlanta University, and qualifications for admission. Contact the program office of your intended area of study for additional details. The letter of intent can be submitted by email to GraduateAdmissions@cau.edu.
School of Social Work Only:
- Autobiographical statement which discusses personal data and family profile, education, career choice and concentration focus area. The statement should be between 3 to 5 pages. Contact the program for additional details. The autobiography can be submitted by email to GraduateAdmissions@cau.edu.
Use only your correct legal name at the time of application to the University (no nicknames please). If your name or address changes prior to the time of registration, please notify the Office of Admissions in writing.
Application Form/Fee
Submit a completed and signed Graduate Admissions Application Form.
- Application Fee: Non-refundable $40 application fee made payable (to Clark Atlanta University) by credit card, money order, or cashier’s check. Personal checks are not accepted.
- International Fee: $55
Academic Records
Transcript(s): An official transcript from each undergraduate and graduate institution the applicant attended. Transcripts must be sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions from the Office of the Registrar at the applicant’s previous institution(s).
- A transcript which has been “issued to the student” will not be accepted
Standardized Test Results: An official GRE Report of Scores or GMAT Report (if applicable) from the Educational Testing Service.
- Test requirements will not be deferred or waived.
- Test scores more than five years old are not acceptable.
Recommendations
The applicant will need a total of (3) letters of recommendation:
- Instructor Recommendation: One letter of recommendation from (2) former instructors.
- Employer/Supervisor Recommendation: One letter of recommendation from an employer or supervisor.
If the applicant has not attended school for two years, then all three recommendations may come from an employer or supervisor.
The letters of recommendation can be submitted by email to GraduateAdmissions@cau.edu
Additional Documents
Resume: Current resume, which can be submitted by email to GraduateAdmissions@cau.edu
The administrative officer in charge of disciplinary records at the applicant’s previous institution, must complete this form and mail it directly to the CAU Office of Graduate Admissions.
This Form is only required if applicant attended an institution within the last two years.
Application Deadlines
Fall application deadlines
- August 1-Open
- April 1- Close
Spring application deadlines
- August 1- Open
- November 1- Close
Summer application deadlines
MAT Noyce and MSW Advance Standing Programs Only
- August 1 – Open
- April 1 – Close
* Deadlines are subject to change- updates will be made in the graduate application portal to apply*
