Application Deadline
Applications for the Developmental Science program are due December 1. For instructions on how to apply, see the department’s Application Procedures.
How We Review Applications
We use a holistic review process when making admissions decisions. Typically, we consider undergraduate grade point average (GPA), a personal statement, letters of reference, research experience, research interests, “fit” of research interests with our faculty, and commitment to Departmental and University values (see Virginia Tech’s Principles of Community). Other characteristics taken into account are the quality of writing samples, the degree of difficulty in undergraduate course selection, and interviews.
GRE scores are neither required nor considered for applicants to the Developmental Science program.
Choosing Faculty Mentors
We follow a mentoring model of selection in which individual faculty choose finalists from a pool of applicants. We look especially for compatibility between individual faculty interests and the research interests and research experience of individual applicants. In your personal statement, please nominate preferred faculty members and describe why and/or how you would like to work with each of them.
To see which faculty are currently accepting students, visit the Developmental Science Faculty page, and check the websites of the individual faculty members you are interested in.