How to Apply


Application forms are available in the foyer of the Undergraduate English Office, Bryan 236, or a digital version can be downloaded here.

An application should include: 

  • An unofficial copy of your current transcript from the Registrar's home page plus a VISTAA form

  • A letter of recommendation from a faculty member other than a Creative Writing instructor

  • Your current address, phone number, and e-mail address 

  • A brief statement (1-2 pp) of what you hope to accomplish in Modern Studies 

Special care should be given to the personal statement. You should briefly outline your academic goals and indicate why you believe that those goals would be best met in the context of the Modern Studies Program. Give your proposed concentration a name and list several courses from the COD that would be appropriate to it.

Please return the completed application to Victoria Olwell, Director of Modern Studies (mailbox in Bryan 219).

If you think you may apply to the program, you must email Victoria Olwell at vjo2f@virginia.edu.  There may be an organizational meeting for prospective applicants at the beginning of the spring term.

An informational meeting for the Modern Studies Area Program will be held Tuesday, February 12, at 5:00 p.m. in the English Department Faculty Lounge (Bryan 229). Applications to the program will be due Thursday, March 20, at 5:00 p.m. in Victoria Olwell’s mailbox in the English Department.