How to Apply

Application Checklist

Use this checklist to assist with completing your application. Those pursuing certificates can apply to begin in spring or fall term.

Graduate School application

The University of Minnesota online application is required of all applicants. Many of the materials below may be uploaded to your online application and submitted together. You must also submit the Humphrey School departmental form in the online application. Application fees are $75 for domestic students, and $95 for international students.

Personal Statement

In 500 words or less (two pages double spaced), discuss your educational and professional experiences and goals. Relate these goals to your personal history and to the executive leadership certificate. Upload this statement into “Statement #1” in the applicant’s statement section of the online application.

Resume or CV

Please include awards and leadership, service, or volunteer activities in your resume. Do not complete online application “Awards and Activities” section or “Honors and Awards” statement; include this information in your resume. Upload your resume into the “Resume or CV” section of the online application.

Transcripts

Unofficial transcripts or academic records of all of your post secondary institutions should be uploaded directly to the online application. Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcripts, there is no need for official transcripts or academic records for initial review. If you are admitted, the University will then request official copies of this material.

TOEFL scores

The TOEFL test is required for non-native English speakers, except those who will have completed 24 quarter/16 semester credits (within the past 24 months) in residence at a recognized institution of higher learning in the United States before entering the University of Minnesota. A minimum score of 600 (paper test), or 250 (computer test), or 100 (internet test) is required. An IELTS score of 7.0 or higher is also acceptable. The school code for the University of Minnesota is RA 6874; the program code is 94. An official score report must be received directly from ETS before an official admissions notification will be made. You may upload your personal copy from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) into the additional materials section of the online application to facilitate initial review of your application.

At least two letters of recommendation

Please request your letters of recommendation through the online application. If your recommender cannot upload it online, they may send it in a sealed envelope signed across the back flap to the Humphrey School. Faxed and e-mailed copies are not accepted. Please ask your recommender to ignore the application Recommendation section instructions for "Narrative" and "Qualities to be ranked." All we ask for is a letter with an appraisal of the candidate's ability to pursue an advanced degree, his or her experience in or potential for public safety leadership, his or her motivation and purpose, and strengths and weaknesses that might affect his or her performance as a graduate student.

Prerequisites

There are prerequisites for each of our degree programs. If you have inadequate preparation in these prerequisites but are otherwise qualified for admission, you will still be considered at the discretion of the faculty admissions committee. However, you will be required to take the relevant courses before beginning the program. Learn about the prerequisites for your specific program by exploring the Degree Programs section of our website.

Diversity statement

The diversity statement is optional. The statement should discuss how your background, experiences, and achievements will contribute to the University's goal of promoting excellence through diversity.  If applicable, nominees should mention hardships or obstacles that they have overcome to complete their undergraduate education (e.g. low-income and first-generation college students).

Special Considerations:

Extenuating circumstances, if applicable (this can be used to explain prior performance that was below what you expect to achieve in graduate school), uploaded into “Extenuating Circumstances” section of the online application.