Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Gallatin accept part-time students?

Yes, in fact many of our graduate students attend part-time and many graduate courses throughout the University are offered in the evening. You may even start out by taking one course at at time. Keep in mind , though, that you must be registered for at least six credits to receive financial aid.

2. How specific must I be about defining my program of study at the time of application?

While you are not expected to know exactly which courses you will be taking, you should be familiar with the course offerings throughout NYU. You should have a good idea as to which departments are relevant to your program of study and how these departments will be integrated in your particular program Many students discuss a specific area of concentration in their Statement of Purpose. Gallatin is not an appropriate school for students who do not have a fairly clear academic goal.

3. Is a standardized test required for admission?

No, Gallatin does not require any standardized testing such as the GRE. If you have taken a standardized test and done well, you may submit the score.

4. If I’ve been out of school for many years, how will an admissions decision be reached?

Gallatin students range in age from their 20's to their 70's. Many students are professionals who have been working in their fields or who have been out of school for other reasons. Be sure to include a resume with your application and in your Statement of Purpose, be sure to discuss your professional background. While the undergraduate record is an important factor in the admissions decision, we also review the entire profile of a student, particularly if you have not recently attended college.

5. What happens if my transcripts and letters of recommendation arrive before my application?

This often happens and it is not a problem at all. We will keep your credentials on file until your application has been received.

6. What happens if my transcripts and letters of recommendation arrive after the application deadline?

The application deadline refers to the receipt of the application itself. Your credentials may follow. Of course, your file will not be reviewed until all credentials have been received.

7. May I submit additional letters of recommendation?

Yes. We require 2 letters of recommendation but you may submit additional letters if you wish.

8 When may I begin the program?

You may begin your studies in the fall or spring semester.

9. How long does it take to complete the degree?

Full-time students usually complete the degree in 2 to 21/2 years but you are given 6 years in which to complete the degree. Part-time students usually take 4-6 years to complete the M.A.

10. Are all NYU graduate courses available to me as a Gallatin student?

No, not all NYU courses are open to Gallatin students. Gallatin students may not take classes in the medical or dental schools. Law school classes are open to Gallatin students with permission of the instructor.

Many courses in the Tisch School of the Arts are open only to Tisch students, including courses in the departments of acting, film production, dramatic writing, design, and dance. However, Gallatin students are able to pursue these areas, particularly acting, dramatic writing, and dance through other courses in the University and private lessons outside NYU. Courses in Performance Studies and Cinema Studies (the academic study of film) are available to Gallatin students. Courses in Interactive Telecommunications are available on a limited basis. It is recommended that students interested in Interactive Telecommunications take these in the summer when they are more available.

Departments that require licensing are generally not available to Gallatin students. These include nursing, physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, dance therapy, and music therapy

11. May I take courses outside of NYU?

Yes. Through concurrent registration, you may take a course at another university if NYU does not offer the course or you are unable to get into the course at NYU , provided the other university will admit you as a visiting student.You will continue to take courses at NYU and you may take a maximum of 6 credits through concurrent registration. Be sure to have all courses approved beforehand.

12.Can I apply to more than one NYU graduate school?

Yes. You may apply to several NYU graduate schools. However, each school requires that you submit its own application. Occasionally, it is possible to request that one school forward your credentials to another. This is not guaranteed and the request should be made in writing.

13. Is it possible to pursue distance learning through Gallatin?

No, Gallatin is not a distance learning program. Most of the curriculum is taken on campus in a classroom setting. However, students are given the option to pursue a maximum of 12 credits of independent study or internship.

14.What are the qualities of a successful Gallatin student?

Gallatin students are mature, self-motivated, focused, and disciplined. They have a fairly clear idea of what they want to study and thrive in a less structured environment where they are free to pursue these interests without the constraints of a more traditional program. A Gallatin student should be a good writer as a master’s thesis is required .

15.Transfer Credit

Gallatin welcomes applicants who have done some work in another graduate program, either within NYU or at another institution. A maximum of 12 credits (combined with course equivalency credit) may transfer (please see bulletin for details). Students who wish to transfer credit must complete the Transfer Credit Request Form within the first year of matriculation. This form can be obtained at the Gallatin Office.