Frequently Asked Questions

Applications are evaluated holistically, and students are selected on the basis of grades, experience, exam scores (if submitted), recommendations and the four short essays. Master's applicants must hold a four-year degree, in any area of study, from an accredited college or university. See Admission Requirements for more information.

In addition to the online application, the following are required:

• application fee ($45)
• four short essays
• resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
• official transcripts documenting each course taken beyond the high school level (whether or not within a degree program) and all degrees awarded
• two letters of recommendation

International students must also submit official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Official transcripts must be translated by an outside agency such as World Education Services (WES).

For additional information, please reference the application checklist. International students should also reference the international student application checklist.

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is NOT required. International students whose primary language is not English must submit official scores from the TOEFL (minimum of 90 total [24 for speaking, 25 for writing]) or IELTS (minimum band score of 7 [7 for listening, 7.5 for speaking]).

Fall 2026 deadlines*:

Priority deadline (for all fellowships and for priority scholarship consideration): February 1, 2026

International applicant final deadline: May 1, 2026

Domestic applicant final deadline: August 1, 2026

Spring 2026 deadlines:

International applicants: October 1, 2025

Domestic applicants: December 1, 2026

*Admission consideration will be made on a rolling basis.

Please note, Kroc School merit award applications are sent to admitted students only. We encourage you to apply for admission early if you wish to also apply for merit financial aid awards.

If you are a candidate for a fellowship and/or wish to be considered first for a merit award, please submit your complete application by the Priority Application deadline.

The Kroc School application evaluation process is thorough. Decisions are made after careful review by our faculty and admissions staff, taking into account a variety of factors. Accordingly, all determinations made during the application evaluation process are considered final. There is no appeal. Should an individual be unsuccessful in securing admission to a particular program, the submission of a new application to the same program is not permitted within a one-year time frame. For example, if an applicant is denied admission for the Fall 2023 term, they are ineligible to reapply to that specific program until the Fall of 2024.

Students who take 6 units (2 courses) per semester and successfully complete their internship will complete the master's degree in 3 years. Students who take less than 9 units are considered part-time. See the MAPJ Curriculum and Pathways page for your options.

Yes, the part-time option has been designed for students working full-time.

Full-time students must be enrolled in a minimum of 9 units (3 courses) each academic semester. Part-time students may enroll in 3-6 units (1-2 courses) each academic semester.

The Kroc School offers robust career development activities such as 1:1 career coaching, mentorship, mock interview program, career workshops, and internship support. USD has a robust Career Development Center for graduate students, which offers skill-building workshops, career expos and more.

Visit the MAPJ Tuition and Financial Aid page for more information.

Yes, Spring and Fall enrollment are available for this program.

Those who graduate with an MA in Peace and Justice are open to a wide variety of career paths in peacebuilding work. You can learn more about the field and common career paths in our article, What is Peace Work? Definitions, Examples, and Career Opportunities.