Graduate Studies

The Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication master’s program is a 32-credit course of study culminating in a master of science (M.S.) degree in journalism and mass communication. These credits are comprised of four core classes, with at least two electives outside the Greenlee School, and at least four thesis or creative component credits.

Selection of your elective courses are based on your area of emphasis and career goals, in consultation with your major professor and Program of Study Committee.

Choose your track

Students pursuing the M.S. degree plan a program of study in one of two tracks.

Academic track

Choose an advanced academic preparation in communication theory and research. Graduate work prepares you to use and contribute to research and scholarship in the field of communication. This track requires a thesis based on original research, which must be defended successfully before a committee at the end of the program.

Areas of research emphasis includes: science and risk communication, media effects, advertising, public relations, political communication, communication technology, law and ethics, international communication, visual communication, and emerging media.

Professional track

This track also prepares you for professional careers in a variety of mass communication fields. Students with limited training or experience in journalism and mass communication may include skills courses in their programs, but the credits for those courses may not count toward the graduate degree. This track requires a creative component which must be defended successfully before a committee at the end of the program.

Graduate minor

Students in other graduate programs may obtain a minor in journalism and mass communication by completing JLMC 5010 and two other graduate course in journalism and mass communication for a total of 9 credits taken within the Greenlee School.

Graduate admissions

The Greenlee School reviews applications to its master’s program on a rolling basis.

Graduate admissions application and requirements

Applicants must meet all requirements set by the Graduate College. In addition, the Greenlee School requires that applicants meet the following admission standards:

• An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution of higher learning in a relevant course of study
• A 3.0 minimum undergraduate grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale. (To convert GPA use this calculator)
• For international applicants, demonstrated English proficiency with a minimum score of 88 on the Internet-based TOEFL, 6.5 on IELTS, 60 on Pearson Test of English, or 110 on DuoLingo

To be reviewed by Greenlee’s Graduate Steering Committee, applications must include the following:

• A statement of purpose in which the applicant describes his/her/their objectives in pursuing the master’s degree, career goals and research interests
• A resume that provides a summary of the applicant’s academic and employment history, honors and publications (if any)
• Transcripts from the undergraduate institution
• Three letters of recommendation that attest to the applicant’s aptitude for study at the graduate level
• Examples of professional and scholarly work (optional)

An applicant whose scholastic average does not meet the Greenlee School requirements may still be considered if the applicant presents evidence of notable professional qualifications and strong recommendations.

Although the Greenlee School reviews applications as they arrive, applications must be received by Jan. 15 (for those planning to begin graduate work in August or the fall semester) and by the middle of October (for those planning to begin graduate work in January or the spring semester) for full consideration of graduate assistantships. International students should apply early enough to be admitted, submit the required documents, and secure a visa before the start of their chosen semester.

Find more information about admission requirements and application procedures in the Graduate Handbook and on the Graduate College website. 

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