This exploratory study examined potential bias within holistic master鈥檚
admissions processes through interviews with multiple admissions professionals
located in New England. Data analysis revealed three overarching themes within
the professional experience that follow critical race theory鈥檚 five tenets
(Hiraldo 2010). These themes are: differences in defining diversity, a lack of
bias training, and colorblind admissions processes. Coded narrative from study
participants suggests that bias exists within master鈥檚 admissions, and that
the process differs from previously researched undergraduate and doctoral
processes due to a lack of understanding surrounding types of bias at the
reviewer and administrator level.