millersville university application essay

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are Millersville University of Pennsylvania's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into Millersville University of Pennsylvania and build a strong application.

School location: Millersville, PA

Admissions Rate: 96.4%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Millersville University of Pennsylvania is 96.4% . For every 100 applicants, 96 are admitted.

This means the school is a nearly open admissions school. They accept nearly all students, so for the most part, you just need to submit an application to get in. But if you don't meet all their application requirements, you'll be one of the very few people who gets rejected.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.34

The average GPA at Millersville University of Pennsylvania is 3.34 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.34, Millersville University of Pennsylvania accepts below-average students . It's OK to be a B-average student, with some A's mixed in. It'd be best to avoid C's and D's, since application readers might doubt whether you can handle the stress of college academics.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to Millersville University of Pennsylvania will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1108

The average SAT score composite at Millersville University of Pennsylvania is a 1108 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Millersville University of Pennsylvania Competitive for SAT test scores.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1010, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1200. In other words, a 1010 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1200 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, Millersville University of Pennsylvania will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and Millersville University of Pennsylvania forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1010, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Millersville University of Pennsylvania likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 23

The average ACT score at Millersville University of Pennsylvania is 23. This score makes Millersville University of Pennsylvania Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 20, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 25.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 20 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to Millersville University of Pennsylvania, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 20.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

Millersville University of Pennsylvania considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

This school offers nearly open admissions, which means they give almost every student an offer of admission. To be safe, you should aim for a 1010 SAT or a 20 ACT or higher . If you can achieve this, you're pretty much guaranteed a spot in the incoming class.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of Millersville University of Pennsylvania here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement Required for all freshmen
• Letters of Recommendation 2
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $40
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes Audition for music program, portfolio art program, Associate degree in nursing or diploma and RN license for nursing program recommended for some freshmen

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office None

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language
• Social Studies 3

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes Rolling Rolling

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 40 Millersville, PA 17551-0302
• Phone: (717) 871-4636
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Millersville University of Pennsylvania, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Millersville University of Pennsylvania.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Millersville University of Pennsylvania. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for Millersville University of Pennsylvania, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Millersville University of Pennsylvania, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Millersville University of Pennsylvania is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

If You Liked Our Advice...

Our experts have written hundreds of useful articles on improving your SAT score and getting into college. You'll definitely find something useful here.

Subscribe to our newsletter to get FREE strategies and guides sent to your email. Learn how to ace the SAT with exclusive tips and insights that we share with our private newsletter subscribers.

You should definitely follow us on social media . You'll get updates on our latest articles right on your feed. Follow us on all of our social networks:

• Email [email protected]
• Call +1-717-871-5706
• Book a virtual appointment
• Contact us on WhatsApp
• Email [email protected]
• Call 717-871-4723
• Email [email protected]
• Call 717-871-7200

Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay

Find the right college for you.

Writing an essay for college admission gives you a chance to use your authentic voice and show your personality. It's an excellent opportunity to personalize your application beyond your academic credentials, and a well-written essay can have a positive influence come decision time.

Want to know how to draft an essay for your college application ? Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing.

Tips for Essay Writing

A typical college application essay, also known as a personal statement, is 400-600 words. Although that may seem short, writing about yourself can be challenging. It's not something you want to rush or put off at the last moment. Think of it as a critical piece of the application process. Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor.

1. Start Early.

Few people write well under pressure. Try to complete your first draft a few weeks before you have to turn it in. Many advisers recommend starting as early as the summer before your senior year in high school. That way, you have ample time to think about the prompt and craft the best personal statement possible.

You don't have to work on your essay every day, but you'll want to give yourself time to revise and edit. You may discover that you want to change your topic or think of a better way to frame it. Either way, the sooner you start, the better.

2. Understand the Prompt and Instructions.

Before you begin the writing process, take time to understand what the college wants from you. The worst thing you can do is skim through the instructions and submit a piece that doesn't even fit the bare minimum requirements or address the essay topic. Look at the prompt, consider the required word count, and note any unique details each school wants.

3. Create a Strong Opener.

Students seeking help for their application essays often have trouble getting things started. It's a challenging writing process. Finding the right words to start can be the hardest part.

Spending more time working on your opener is always a good idea. The opening sentence sets the stage for the rest of your piece. The introductory paragraph is what piques the interest of the reader, and it can immediately set your essay apart from the others.

4. Stay on Topic.

One of the most important things to remember is to keep to the essay topic. If you're applying to 10 or more colleges, it's easy to veer off course with so many application essays.

A common mistake many students make is trying to fit previously written essays into the mold of another college's requirements. This seems like a time-saving way to avoid writing new pieces entirely, but it often backfires. The result is usually a final piece that's generic, unfocused, or confusing. Always write a new essay for every application, no matter how long it takes.

5. Think About Your Response.

Don't try to guess what the admissions officials want to read. Your essay will be easier to write─and more exciting to read─if you’re genuinely enthusiastic about your subject. Here’s an example: If all your friends are writing application essays about covid-19, it may be a good idea to avoid that topic, unless during the pandemic you had a vivid, life-changing experience you're burning to share. Whatever topic you choose, avoid canned responses. Be creative.

6. Focus on You.

Essay prompts typically give you plenty of latitude, but panel members expect you to focus on a subject that is personal (although not overly intimate) and particular to you. Admissions counselors say the best essays help them learn something about the candidate that they would never know from reading the rest of the application.

7. Stay True to Your Voice.

Use your usual vocabulary. Avoid fancy language you wouldn't use in real life. Imagine yourself reading this essay aloud to a classroom full of people who have never met you. Keep a confident tone. Be wary of words and phrases that undercut that tone.

8. Be Specific and Factual.

Capitalize on real-life experiences. Your essay may give you the time and space to explain why a particular achievement meant so much to you. But resist the urge to exaggerate and embellish. Admissions counselors read thousands of essays each year. They can easily spot a fake.

9. Edit and Proofread.

When you finish the final draft, run it through the spell checker on your computer. Then don’t read your essay for a few days. You'll be more apt to spot typos and awkward grammar when you reread it. After that, ask a teacher, parent, or college student (preferably an English or communications major) to give it a quick read. While you're at it, double-check your word count.

Writing essays for college admission can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. A well-crafted essay could be the deciding factor─in your favor. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll have no problem creating memorable pieces for every application.

What is the format of a college application essay?

Generally, essays for college admission follow a simple format that includes an opening paragraph, a lengthier body section, and a closing paragraph. You don't need to include a title, which will only take up extra space. Keep in mind that the exact format can vary from one college application to the next. Read the instructions and prompt for more guidance.

Most online applications will include a text box for your essay. If you're attaching it as a document, however, be sure to use a standard, 12-point font and use 1.5-spaced or double-spaced lines, unless the application specifies different font and spacing.

How do you start an essay?

The goal here is to use an attention grabber. Think of it as a way to reel the reader in and interest an admissions officer in what you have to say. There's no trick on how to start a college application essay. The best way you can approach this task is to flex your creative muscles and think outside the box.

You can start with openers such as relevant quotes, exciting anecdotes, or questions. Either way, the first sentence should be unique and intrigue the reader.

What should an essay include?

Every application essay you write should include details about yourself and past experiences. It's another opportunity to make yourself look like a fantastic applicant. Leverage your experiences. Tell a riveting story that fulfills the prompt.

What shouldn’t be included in an essay?

When writing a college application essay, it's usually best to avoid overly personal details and controversial topics. Although these topics might make for an intriguing essay, they can be tricky to express well. If you’re unsure if a topic is appropriate for your essay, check with your school counselor. An essay for college admission shouldn't include a list of achievements or academic accolades either. Your essay isn’t meant to be a rehashing of information the admissions panel can find elsewhere in your application.

How can you make your essay personal and interesting?

The best way to make your essay interesting is to write about something genuinely important to you. That could be an experience that changed your life or a valuable lesson that had an enormous impact on you. Whatever the case, speak from the heart, and be honest.

Is it OK to discuss mental health in an essay?

Mental health struggles can create challenges you must overcome during your education and could be an opportunity for you to show how you’ve handled challenges and overcome obstacles. If you’re considering writing your essay for college admission on this topic, consider talking to your school counselor or with an English teacher on how to frame the essay.

Related Articles

Millersville University

Millersville university provides students with a supportive and enriching environment by offering everything from internships and on-campus jobs to division ii athletic teams and 170 diverse clubs and organizations the millersville university faculty are scholars highly respected in their fields; approachable teachers and active mentors who engage their students in the classroom, the office, the research lab, and in the life of the campus., academic programs.

• Art & Design
• Communication
• Engineering
• Finance/Accounting
• Government/Political Science
• Health Science
• Liberal Arts
• Meteorology
• Performing Arts
• Social Science
• Visual Arts

Student experience

• Co-op/Internship Opportunities
• Disability Services
• Intramural/Club Sports
• LGBTQIA Services
• Military/Veteran Services
• On-Campus Housing
• ROTC Program
• Study Abroad
• Undergraduate Research
• Veteran Fee Waiver

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

First-year students are applying directly from high school and have not taken any military or college credits after graduating high school. Our typical first-year student has achieved a solid B average and has earned an above average SAT or ACT score.

Transfer students began their educational journey elsewhere and are ready to make a change to MU. Students are welcome to continue their path from a community college or 4-year institution.

Visiting students, also known as transient students, are currently enrolled as a degree-seeking student at another institution, but are interested in taking fewer than 12 credits at MU.

Admissions office

PO Box 1002 Millersville , PA 17551-0302 , United States of America

[email protected]

Phone number

717-871-4625

For first-year students

Admissions website.

www.millersville.edu/admissions/undergrad/apply/index.php

Financial aid website

www.millersville.edu/finaid/

Mid-Atlantic

View more in this region

Follow Millersville University

• Facebook icon
• Twitter icon
• Youtube icon
• Instagram icon

All colleges expand_more

Millersville University

• Cost & scholarships
• Essay prompt

• MILLERSVILLE, PA

Millersville University of Pennsylvania

• Rating 3.56 out of 5   1,532 reviews

Report Card

• Academics grade  B minus
• Value grade  B
• Diversity grade  B+
• Campus grade  B+
• Athletics grade  B
• Party Scene grade  B
• Professors grade  B
• Location grade  A minus
• Dorms grade  B+
• Campus Food grade  B
• Student Life grade  B
• Safety grade  B+
• Common App Accepted
• No Application Fee
• Public College
• SAT/ACT Optional
• Some Online Degrees
• Pennsylvania
• Millersville

Millersville University of Pennsylvania Rankings

Niche rankings are based on rigorous analysis of key statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and millions of reviews.

• Best College Dorms in America 278 of 1,363
• Best College Locations in America 338 of 1,527
• Safest College Campuses in America 403 of 1,306

MU Admissions

Students also applied to ....

• grade  B minus Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
• grade  B minus Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
• grade  B minus West Chester University of Pennsylvania
• grade  B minus Commonwealth University - Bloomsburg
• grade  B Susquehanna University
• grade  C+ Elizabethtown College
• grade  B minus York College of Pennsylvania
• grade  C+ Cabrini University

Will You Get In?

Will you get into mu.

Test Scores and High School GPA for Millersville University of Pennsylvania See Other Colleges

Find Student Loans

Scholarship, most popular majors.

• Nursing Science, Education, and Practice 146 Graduates
• Business 116 Graduates
• Biology 90 Graduates
• Psychology 81 Graduates
• Communications 76 Graduates
• Special Education and Teaching 73 Graduates
• Early Childhood Education 68 Graduates
• Social Work and Youth Services 62 Graduates
• Liberal Arts and Humanities 55 Graduates
• Engineering 46 Graduates
• Mix of Online and on Campus 32%
• On Campus 59%
• Friendly and welcoming 43%
• Open-minded 28%
• clique-y 5%
• Depressed 3%
• Milenials 3%
• Outgoing 3%

Campus Life

• Decent, educational, while still having fun things 40%
• Community centered, positive, amazing 17%
• Decent and educational 17%
• Awesome 10%
• Home away from home 4%
• Overrated 3%

After College

Similar colleges.

• SHIPPENSBURG, PA
• Rating 3.56 out of 5   1,101 reviews
• KUTZTOWN, PA
• Rating 3.53 out of 5   1,677 reviews
• WEST CHESTER, PA
• Rating 3.72 out of 5   1,865 reviews
• BLOOMSBURG, PA
• Rating 3.71 out of 5   1,504 reviews

Millersville University of Pennsylvania Reviews

• Rating 5 out of 5   Excellent 241   reviews ( 16 %)
• Rating 4 out of 5   Very Good 558   reviews ( 36 %)
• Rating 3 out of 5   Average 596   reviews ( 39 %)
• Rating 2 out of 5   Poor 97   reviews ( 6 %)
• Rating 1 out of 5   Terrible 40   reviews ( 3 %)
• 3 months ago
• Overall Experience
• 2 months ago
• a month ago

Add to List

Millersville Continues Test-Optional Policy 

The admissions application for fall 2023 opens July 1.  

• Mary Miller By Mary Miller
• Post date June 24, 2022
• No Comments on Millersville Continues Test-Optional Policy 

Back in 2020, Millersville University decided to make SAT and ACT scores an optional part of the student application process in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the University is continuing this policy up through the fall semester of 2024, placing less emphasis on test scores and more on the general academic success of students seeking to apply.   

The University was the first school in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education to make standardized test scores optional in 2014 as a part of the pilot program .    

“The SAT or ACT is just one measure of a student’s success and temporarily waiving the requirement removes that barrier for students to enter Millersville,” says Dr. Katy Charles, director of admissions. “In 2024, the University will review the success rates of students who entered without a standardized test score in order to make a decision about a permanent policy.”  

Applicants are asked to submit their high school transcript and an application essay. Like test scores, letters of recommendation are optional. “The most emphasis is put on how the student performed in their high school academics,” explains Charles.   

This good news comes just in time for current high school students looking to apply to Millersville University— the admissions application for fall 2023 opens July 1.   

Undergraduate Admissions hosts various programs for those beginning the college application process, those admitted to the University, and all students in between. The newly developed ‘Ville Preview Days were designed for high school juniors as a general overview of the University this past spring.   

In addition to a campus tour and presentations from individual academic departments, students who attended these Preview Days learned more about the college admissions process and financial aid. They could also talk to MU students about their college experiences. The intention is that as students may visit the University multiple times, they can experience different aspects of the University.   

While Preview Days are intended as broad overviews, Open Houses are more specific and intended for high school seniors who have already begun the college application process. These events have a full itinerary, including meetings with professors and a Q & A session with the University’s academic Deans. Open Houses will take place on September 24, October 15 and November 5.  

Campus visits are open now and are offered regularly through August. New student orientation for accepted students attending the University in the fall begins June 21.   

For more information about undergraduate admissions, please visit https://www.millersville.edu/admissions/undergrad/.  

• Tags 'Ville Preview Days , ACT , Admissions , campus visit , Dr. Katy Charles , Open House , optional , orientation , SAT , scores , standardized test scores , Test-Optional , Undergraduate Admissions

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

When most people talk about diamonds, they’re talking about rings. When Colin Myers talks about diamonds, he refers to their use in electronics. The senior at Millersville University recently had his research on diamonds published in the national journal “NCHC Journal of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity.” <br /> <br /> During the summer of 2023, he participated in an internship at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in Gaithersburg, Maryland where he conducted research alongside his assigned advisor, Dr. Andrei Kolmakov. <br /> <br /> Myers’ research focused on exploring the possibilities of diamonds being transformed from their natural state of an insulator into a conductive material that could be used for large-scale electronics, like aircrafts and vehicles. “We wanted to turn it into a material that conducts similarly to silicon or gold, which are really great conductors,” says Myers. The idea behind pursuing this research stems from the need for better electronic materials. “Diamond is really perfect for this because it has a very high thermal conductivity,” says Myers. “When you use electronics, like a phone or computer, it can get hot, and diamond can get rid of that heat very easily.” <br /> <br /> Myers was matched with this research topic and advisor through the Society of Physics Students by applying for their internship program. This was done based on mutual interests. “I’m interested in materials, metals and electronics,” says Myers. The internship did not require Myers to write a paper to accompany his research, but he took the initiative to do so. “I ended up having a good deal of free time between experiments and my advisor pushed me in that direction,” says Myers. <br /> <br /> Moving forward after graduation, he will be attending graduate school but has not made a final decision of where he will go. “At the University of Maryland, I would be pursuing a physics Ph.D., whereas at the University of Delaware I would pursue a material science Ph.D.,” says Myers. “They’re pretty similar, but there’s a few differences I’m hashing out right now.”

P.O. Box 1002, Millersville, PA 17551-0302 © 2022 Millerville University

International Graduate Application Checklist

Graduate international application checklist.

• MSW -  Academic and Professional Statement for MSW Applicants  (PDF)
• Sport Management -  Academic and Professional Statement for Sports Management Applicants  (PDF)
• All Other Programs -  Academic and Professional Goals Statement
• Students with academic credentials from a non-US institution must have official academic credentials sent to a recognized credential evaluation service for a Course-by-Course evaluation. Evaluation results must be mailed directly to the admissions office from a recognized NACES credit evaluation service .
• Applicants must submit official admission test scores as required by their intended degree program. For information on which exams are required for your program, please visit the Timelines and Requirement Page .
• Applicants with earned master’s degrees need not submit admission test scores. Certification applicants need not submit admission test scores.
• Non-Native English speakers must submit official English proficiency scores. Applicants who do not meet the minimum English language requirement may be conditionally admitted based on their intended program.
• Visit our English Proficiency Page  for more information. 
• Check Timelines and Requirement Page for specific requirements for your intended program.
• Copy of Passport Biographical Page
• International students must be able to show proof that they are capable of financing their education in the United States. Please submit the Sources of Funds form , along with supporting bank statements of sponsorship letters.

MAIL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS TO:

Office of International Programs and Services Attn: International Admissions P.O. Box 1002 Millersville University Millersville, PA 17551-0302

All credentials must be official, original documents, or notarized, attested copies of the original. Please do not send your only original.

If you have questions about the process, email us at [email protected] . 

Undergraduate Students International Admissions P.O. Box 1002 Millersville University Millersville, PA 17551-0302 Phone Number: 717-871-7506 [email protected]  

Graduate Students College of Graduate Studies and Adult Learning Attn: Graduate Admissions P.O. Box 1002 Millersville University Millersville, PA 17551-0302 Phone Number: 717-871-4723 Departmental Questions: [email protected] Application Processing: [email protected]  

English Language Institute Office of International Programs & Services Attn: English Language Institute  P.O. Box 1002 Millersville University  Millersville, PA 17551-0302  Phone Number: 717-871-7506 [email protected]  

Lacrosse vs. Shepherd

Baseball doubleheader vs. west chester, first friday - pilgrim soul @ the ware center, congratulations may graduates, celebrating apida month at millersville university, rooting for the future: arbor day at mu.

Academic Catalog

Social work, m.s.w..

Millersville and Shippensburg universities are jointly offering a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program. It is designed for students who want to either further their education in social work or join the social work profession. The program was developed to support both the full-time student and the working professional. State-of-the-art technology permits students to acquire social work knowledge, skills, and values through multiple educational methods, teleconferencing, and web-based activities. Because this is a joint program, students benefit from the quality faculty and resources of both universities.

The MSW permits graduates to work in a variety of human service programs and agencies in an advanced clinical and/or administrative capacity. The flexibilityof the social work degree provides graduates with many options as they pursue their careers in the helping fields. 

The MSW program is available in-person and online. We offer full-time and part-time options. Online students complete their practicum requirements in their local geographic area. 

Dual Degrees

A dual-degree option is available for students in the MSW program who wish to also obtain a Master of Social Work and Master of Science in Emergency Management. Students seeking a dual degree in MSW/MSEM will need to complete the full curriculum in the MSW program (which is 36 or 60 credits). 

This joint program allows students in the MSW and MSEM programs to pursue a joint graduate degree.  Students will need to apply and be admitted to both programs in order to pursue this joint degree. It is not required that the student be admitted to both programs at the same time.

BENEFITS OF THE JOINT PROGRAM: 

Social work offers research informed practice interventions in relation to emergency management planning, prevention and response, specifically in the fields of mental health and trauma, as well as trauma informed interventions.

Social work research in emergency management includes findings on: traumatic stress, vicarious trauma and burnout, disaster volunteers, vulnerable populations, organizations and interorganizational networks, environmental disasters, as well as human made disasters, and cross-cultural and interactional issues in disasters, and improved measurement and theory.

Emerging trends in social work research and practice point to this need as a result of the impact of traumatic events such as the COVID 19 Epidemic, earthquakes, mass shootings, hurricanes and war.

APPLICATION PROCESS

MSW + MEd in Sports Management

A dual-degree option in MSW/M.Ed. in sport management will need to complete the full curriculum in the MSW program (which is 36 or 60 credits). 

This degree program will provide an understanding of the need of social workers in athletic settings, give students knowledge of the social factors affecting athletes of all levels, develop skills to administer and develop athletic programs or facilities and discuss current perceptions of student athletes. Graduates will also gain an increased awareness of the issues regarding athletes and sport management, provide an awareness of opportunities for policy adjustments and applications of research findings, and will highlight social work values and ethics in examining the issues of professional and amateur athletes as they relate to race, ethnicity, national origin, class, gender, physical or mental disability, mental illness, and age.

Students will learn emerging trends in working with athletes of all levels, in clinical and counseling settings and will gain knowledge and skills related to athletic programs, and/or venue management. Students will also have the opportunity to develop methodologies for working with athletes in a number of areas, such as career counseling, life skills development, substance abuse prevention, advocacy, recruitment and transitioning to a post athletic career.

Students will understand the emerging trends in social work and sports management that point to this need to include mental health awareness in athletics. Students will conduct and become aware of research related to the issues athletes face on and off the playing field, specifically in the fields of mental health and trauma. A program combined with Social Work and Sports Management will allow students to obtain a firm grounding in both disciplines, along with the ability to secure practicums or internships in either profession.

Certificates

Msw + school social worker certification.

The School Social Work certification is designed to prepare social work  students with the required knowledge, skills, and expertise to “support  the academic, career and personal-social development needs” of  diverse, vulnerable, and at-risk PreK-12 students and their families. In the  Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the School Social Work certification is  required by school districts.

MSW + Home and School Visitor

The Home and School Visitor Certification is designed to provide students  with the required knowledge and skills to work collaboratively in a school  setting at all systems levels.

MSW + Expressive Arts

The Expressive Arts certificate will provide students with the required  knowledge and skills around the use of the arts (e.g., music, theater, art,  dance/movement, storytelling) to apply to their practice with various  groups and at all levels of practice. Additionally, upon completion of the  certificate and then a subsequent 200-hour internship, students will be  eligible to apply as a Registered Expressive Arts Therapist.

MSW + Advanced Children, Youth, and Families

The Advanced Children, Youth, and Families Certificate is for students  enrolled in or who have completed a master’s degree in Social Work  to provide culturally competent services to vulnerable children and  families through a range of public and private agencies at various levels  of practice. The focused curriculum includes coursework on clinical skills  to work effectively with children and their families to promote positive  outcomes, and macro skills and strategies to develop productive change  in service delivery systems.

The mission of the Millersville University and Shippensburg University Collaborative MSW Program is to promote human and community well-being by providing an advanced generalist social work education that prepares students to be contemporary practitioners and advocates for individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations utilizing the person in environment perspective. We prepare students to be competent, globally responsive evidence-informed practitioners, committed to social, racial, economic, and environmental justice and human rights, which are rooted in the values of the social work profession.  

program Goals

The MU-SU program seeks to:  

1. Prepare graduates for competent advanced generalist practice through the   acquisition and demonstration of social work competencies and values consistent with Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) educational policy and accreditation standards and Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

2. Provide graduates with the advanced generalist knowledge values and skills for   social work practice across micro, mezzo and macro systems to assess, plan and facilitate change with attention to the profession's commitment to interprofessional collaboration.

3. Develop graduates’ commitment to continued evidence-informed professional   development and prepare graduates to practice human rights-based social work that promotes social, racial, economic, and environmental justice.

Accreditation

The Millersville-Shippensburg MSW program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The program has continuously been accredited since its inception in 2006. The accreditation validates that the program meets national standards for social work education as determined by experts in the field. Practitioners must have graduated from a CSWE-accredited social work MSW program to be eligible to apply for licensure in Pennsylvania.

Admission Classifications

The program is designed both for students who have no previous social work education and for those who want to build upon their baccalaureate social work education. Students will be admitted full- or part-time. Students have the option to attend in-person or online.

Applicants may apply for regular-standing admission or for advanced-standing admission. Regular-standing admission is for students who completed a baccalaureate degree with a major from other than a CSWE-accredited social work, and for students who graduated from a CSWE-accredited social work program but do not meet the requirements for advanced standing. Applicants may apply for advanced standing  admission if they have graduated from a CSWE-accredited social work program withinn the past 8 years and meet the requirements as described in the admission guidelines.

Admission Guidelines

Candidates may choose to apply through either Millersville or Shippensburg University. Applicants for regular-standing admission must have a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale from a regionally accredited undergraduate institution. In exceptional cases, applicants who lack the required grade-point average should contact the MSW Program Director to discuss their options.

Applicants for advanced-standing admission must have earned a baccalaureate degree within the last eight years from a CSWE-accredited social work program with an overall GPA of 2.8 and a major GPA of 3.25 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

Students who graduated with a baccalaureate degree from a CSWE-accredited social work program who are not eligible for advanced standing may be eligible for exemptions from first-year generalist courses in which they have earned a grade of B or higher within the past eight years. Exemptions will reduce the total number of credits a student must earn to graduate. The Admissions Committee will send a letter notifying the applicant of the exemptions.

Students who do not otherwise qualify for advanced-standing status may be exempted from certain generalist courses under strict guidelines as outlined in this section. Students may not be exempt from practice or field placement coursework. With the exception of practice and field instruction courses, students who earned a grade of B or higher within the past eight years in courses that were part of a CSWE-accredited social work program are eligible for exemptions from first-year generalist courses with similar content.

Applicants must evidence a combination of professional and personal experiences, qualities and values that are considered essential for the practice of social work. A current résumé is required. Three professional references are required, preferable with a minimum of one from a faculty member and one from a current or recent agency employer or supervisor. Applicants for advanced standing are required to submit an additional reference from the department chair of their undergraduate program. Applicants will complete a written personal statement. Application forms are available on the graduate studies website, www.millersville.edu/apply/graduate . The program may request a personal interview or additional information about an applicant when necessary to make a fully informed admissions decision.

Persons who have some criminal records may not be eligible to work in some human service fields. Applicants with criminal records should contact the MSW program director for additional information.

Students may receive or transfer credit for up to nine credit hours earned at other regionally accredited institutions prior to admission. Graduate credits earned more than five years prior to admission do not qualify for transfer. Students may only transfer credits if they are in good standing in those schools. Courses must be listed on an official transcript with a B or higher. Condensed one-week graduate courses do not qualify for transfer.

With advance permission of the faculty advisor, program director and Dean of Graduate Studies and Adult Learning, and as part of a planned program, a student may transfer credits from other graduate programs at Millersville University or Shippensburg University. Forms for the approval process of transfer of credits are available at www.millersville.edu/gps/studentlife . The program does not grant academic credit for life or work experience.

Degree Requirements

Students with regular-standing admission must complete 60 credits of graduate study, including 39 credit hours of required coursework, 12 credit hours of field practicum and 9 credit hours of electives. BSW graduates with regular admission status may receive exemption for some coursework, as per admission guidelines.

Students with advanced-standing admission must complete 36 credits of graduate study, including 18 credit hours of required coursework, including a “bridge” course, 6 credit hours of field practicum and 12 credit hours of electives.

All required courses must be taken in sequence. The 60-credit in-person program can be completed in two years full-time (four courses a semester) or four years part-time (two courses a semester) or in 3 years with either Generalization or Specialization Year completed on a full-time basis. The online 60-credit program can be completed in two, three or four years. The 36-credit in-person program can be completed in one year full-time or two years part-time. The online 36-credit program, can be competed in one or two years. Both programs are year-round, with each new cohort starting in the summer term.

Degree Candidacy

A formal admission to the degree candidacy process takes place after a minimum of 12 credits have been completed. Millersville-Shippensburg MSW faculty members evaluate students to determine if they have the potential for completing the requirements of the social work program. Qualifications are based on academic performance in line with University standards and demonstrated ethical behavior, values and commitment to social work as a career. The social work faculty has the right to dismiss from the program at any time students found not qualified for social work practice.

• SOWK 501 Principles and Philosophies of Social Work 3  hours
• SOWK 505 Understanding Social Work Practices w Diverse Pops 3  hours
• SOWK 510 Human Behavior in the Social Environment I 3  hours
• SOWK 511 Human Behavior in the Social Environment II 3  hours
• SOWK 515 Social Welfare Policy 3  hours
• SOWK 520 Micro/Mezzo Social Work Practices 3  hours
• SOWK 521 Macro Social Work Practice 3  hours
• SOWK 525 Research Methods 3  hours
• SOWK 530 Field Practicum 1 3  hours
• SOWK 531 Field Practicum 2 3  hours
• SOWK 610 Adv Micro Practice & Assessmnt
• SOWK 615 Advanced Social Welfare Policy 3  hours
• SOWK 620 Advanced Practice with Groups and Families 3  hours
• SOWK 621 Advanced Macro Social Work Practices 3  hours
• SOWK 625 Advanced Research Methods 3  hours
• SOWK 630 Advanced Field Practicum 1
• SOWK 631 Advanced Field Practicum 2
• EMGT 607 Emergency Mental Health and Trauma
• SOWK 602 Behavioral Health
• SOWK 604 Health Care
• SOWK 605 Child Welfare
• SOWK 606 School Social Work
• SOWK 607 Emergency Mental Health and Trauma
• SOWK 608 Administration and Supervision
• SOWK 609 Introduction to Art Therapy
• SOWK 611 Children and Youth At-Risk
• SOWK 614 Survey Devel & Measurement
• SOWK 616 Leadership Dynamics in SW Prac
• SOWK 617 Addictions in Field of SOWK
• SOWK 619 Global Perspectives in SOWK
• SOWK 622 Military Social Work Practice
• SOWK 623 Narrative Therapy
• SOWK 624 From Hobohemia to Housing First: A Critical Reflection of Homelessness in the United States
• SOWK 626 Traumatic Bereavement
• SOWK 627 SOWK, Sport & Mental Health
• Any SOWK 640 -644 course(s)
• SOWK 691 Independent Study

Print Options

Send Page to Printer

Print this page.

Download Page (PDF)

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

Download Overview (PDF)

The PDF will include content on the Overview tab only.

Download Curriculum (PDF)

The PDF will include content on the Curriculum tab only.