To apply to the graduate program, students must submit both the Virginia Tech Graduate School Application and the STS Supplemental Application as well as all of the following materials to the Graduate Secretary in 133 Lane Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061:

• Official transcripts
• Official GRE Scores*
• Official TOEFL Scores (if applicable)
• Supplemental Information Form
• Letter of Interest (250-500 words) and curriculum vitae
• Writing Sample (See supplemental information form for a description of desired writing samples.)
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Any additional information that would be useful in evaluation of your application

The application deadline for those wishing to receive full consideration for financial aid is February 1. The STS program will continue to process applications from that point to the beginning of the fall semester. To request further information about the program or the application process, please contact the Graduate Secretary.

GRE and TOEFL Scores

You may view GRE Department Codes by clicking here. Please send your scores to the Virginia Tech Graduate School at code 005859.

*In certain circumstances, the Director of the STS Graduate Program can substitute other indicators of potential success for the GRE. For example, completing three graduate courses in STS with a grade of B+ or better would constitute a reasonable substitution, as would previously completing another advanced degree. Please contact the Director of the Graduate Program well in advance of application for more information.

Admissions Decisions in the STS Program

The Admissions and Review Committee advises the STS Director on admissions by reviewing applications and making recommendations both for admission to the M.S. or Ph.D. degree program and for graduate assistantship support. While an incoming student may ideally have prior preparation in some area of science or engineering and some area of science and technology studies (e.g., interdisciplinary humanistic or social science studies of science and technology; disciplinary studies in history, philosophy, sociology, or anthropology of science and technology), we consider the qualifications and career objectives of all applicants individually regardless of academic background. We typically base an admissions decision on a candidate's prior academic work, professional experience, statement of interests, writing sample, recommendations from instructors and/or appropriate colleagues or supervisors, scores on GRE examinations, and other supplementary material as appropriate. International students whose degree programs were not conducted in English must also take the TOEFL, if at all possible, including the TWE (Test of Writing English).

Taking Courses as a Commonwealth Campus Student

Under Virginia Tech's Commonwealth Campus program, individuals with a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university may take up to six graduate courses (subject to availability and restrictions) without being admitted to a degree program. In the first semester as a Commonwealth Campus student, a maximum of one course is permitted. Students who simply wish to take certain specific graduate courses may register for courses under the Commonwealth Campus program, as may students who are considering or are actively pursuing admission as degree candidates. We encourage Commonwealth Campus students to apply for admission as degree candidates as soon as they know that they will seek the degree. Individuals seeking admission as degree candidates should expect to take the GRE as soon as possible. Individuals interested in taking STS courses in Blacksburg as Commonwealth Campus students should contact the Graduate Secretary. Individuals interested in taking STS courses at the Northern Virginia Center as Commonwealth Campus students should contact Barbara Allen, Director of the Science and Technology Graduate Program at the Northern Virginia Center.

• Domestic Application
• International Application
• STS Supplemental Application
• Graduate Student Checklist