Doctoral Admissions
Minimum criteria, required credentials, and application deadlines for doctoral matriculation at Jackson State University.
Applying to a doctoral program
Welcome to the Division of Graduate Studies at Jackson State University. Our goal is to assist you through the application process and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your education. The application process varies depending on the level of study and program you are applying for; we recommend that you review the requirements for your desired program and contact the Office of Admissions with any questions you may have.
For graduate programs, the application process typically includes:
- Submitting an online application
- Sending official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- Sending test scores (GRE, GMAT, etc. for graduate programs)
- Meeting any additional program-specific requirements
Doctoral matriculation requirements
While each doctoral program has its own admission requirements, the Graduate School specifies the following minimum criteria for doctoral matriculation.
Step 1
Submit admission credentials to the Graduate School
- An application for admission to Graduate School — click here to apply.
- All applicants must submit one (1) official copy of transcripts from all 4-year regionally accredited colleges and universities attended. Community College transcripts are not required.
- Every application requires an official copy of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
Official transcripts can be sent electronically using eScript, Parchment, or another approved electronic service to gradtranscript@jsums.edu, or by mail to:
The Division of Graduate Studies
Jackson State University
P.O. Box 17095
Jackson, MS 39217
- Students with international transcripts: please visit the International Admissions web page for additional information regarding transcripts.
- The Graduate School requires a 3.00 GPA (on a 4.00 scale) at the undergraduate level or a Master’s degree (see program requirements).
- Admission by a major department. Departmental requirements are listed in the Graduate Catalog or in the application packet.
- International applicants must submit satisfactory TOEFL or IELTS scores.
- International applicants must also file a Certified Declaration of Financial Support with the University with the Division of International Studies. Click for Form I-134, Affidavit of Support (PDF).
- The student should consult the major department for additional requirements.
Step 2
Other requirements
Immunization Requirement
All applicants must submit immunization records showing proof of immunization compliance for measles and rubella, unless born prior to 1957, to: JSU, Health Services, P.O. Box 17097, Jackson, MS 39217. Telephone: (601) 979-2260. Click here for details.
Departmental / Program Requirements for Doctoral Applicants
- Department/program application
- Three letters of recommendation
- A written statement of purpose
- All required national examination scores (GRE, GMAT, or MAT). University Test Code = 1341
- Meet the minimum GPA requirement of the desired program
Additional application materials are required for all doctoral programs. Click here for program contact info.
Application deadlines
General Priority Application Deadlines
Program-Specific Deadlines
- Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
- Ph.D. in Educational Administration
- Ph.D. in Chemistry & Biochemistry
- Ph.D. in Data Enabled Science & Engineering
- Ph.D. in Engineering
- Ph.D. in Environmental Science
- Ph.D. in Public Administration
- Ph.D. in Social Work
- Ph.D. in Urban & Regional Planning
- Dr.P.H. in Public Health
- Ph.D. in Urban Higher Education
- Ph.D. in Business Administration
- Ed.D. in Early Childhood Education
Ready to apply?
Start your application through the Division of Graduate Studies or the graduate application portal.
Graduate studies resources
- Areas of Study PAGE
- Academic Calendar PDF
- Cyber Orientation PAGE
- Graduate Area Comprehensive Exam (GACE) PAGE
- Graduate Faculty PAGE
- Commencement PAGE
- Graduate Catalog PAGE
- Graduate Student Association (GSA) PAGE
- Dissertation & Thesis PAGE
- Forms PAGE
Important dates
Keep up to date with all important dates for the current semester at Jackson State University. If you have any questions about the information listed, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to help you further.
Division of Graduate Studies
1400 John R. Lynch Street
Jackson, MS 39217-0280
Jackson State University
P.O. Box 17095
Jackson, MS 39217