If you’re interested in applying for our Ph.D. program at the School of Journalism and Mass Communications, here’s what you’ll need to provide to the Graduate School, which processes the applications.

• A completed online application.
• 3 letters of recommendation (including at least 2 from academic references).
• Official academic transcripts, especially work done at the master’s level.
• Written personal statement including objectives, experiences, goals, and why this program is a good fit for you.
• Resume
•  Writing sample preferably showing academic potential: although more writing samples are not required, additional ones may be uploaded in the “Additional Supporting Documents” section of the application.
• A completed master’s degree. It does not have to be in journalism or mass communications, although if not, additional coursework might be required.
• Official TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or PTE Academic scores (for applicants without a degree from an English-speaking institution)
• • Applicants who are from a country where English is an official language or have earned a degree in a country where English is an official language are eligible for an exemption from this requirement.
• International applicants should review the International Applicants  page for information regarding additional application requirements
• GRE scores are not required.

Typically, students admitted to the Ph.D. program have:

• At least a 3.0 grade point average (undergraduate and graduate).
• At least one year, and often much more, experience as a journalism/mass communications professional.
• A working knowledge of statistical reasoning. If you have not taken a course in descriptive or inferential statistics, you will need to do so either before your first or second semester.
• If you're an international student, you'll need to earn a passing score on one of the following English proficiency exams or qualify for an exemption:
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
    • Minimum score of 100 (for tests taken before January 21, 2026)
    • Minimum score of 5.5 (for tests taken after January 21, 2026)
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
    • Minimum score of 7.0
  • Duolingo English Test
    • Minimum score of 120
  • PTE Academic Test

• • • Minimum score of 53

• • Those from a country where English is an official language or who have earned a degree in a country where English is an official language are eligible for an exemption from this requirement.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply to the doctoral program is December 1 for the Fall semester. The Graduate School application portal closes after December 1. Applications will not be accepted after the portal closes.

 Effective Fall 2027, the application must be submitted online and requires payment of a $50 fee. Your application will not be processed at the Graduate School until the fee is paid. It is best to pay the fee online with a credit or debit card. You may submit supporting documents after submitting your application. Your application will not be reviewed until all required documents are received before the deadline. It’s best to arrange for document transfers and transcripts well in advance of the application deadline.

Deadline

Term	Deadline
Fall	December 1