Graduate Application Information

1. Submit online application form and pay the $55.00 non-refundable application fee The graduate application to SOC is available online and can be saved and completed at your convenience. 

The application fee for SOC graduate programs is $55. Fee waiver discount codes are provided within the application form. For more information about application fee waivers visit the Application section of FAQ’s.

2. Transcripts from all previous post-secondary institutions For admissions review purposes, SOC allows applicants to upload unofficial transcripts from US-based colleges and universities; however, applicants who attended institutions outside of the US are required to submit official evaluated transcripts from an NACES approved organization. Visit the FAQ page section on transcripts.

All applicants to SOC graduate programs must possess a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution by the date of anticipated enrollment to SOC. Applicants are required to submit transcripts from all institutions attended.

Visit the FAQ section for additional questions about transcripts under Supplemental Items.

3. Resume Your resume/CV allows the review committee to assess your background and previous experiences and will serve as the detailed source of information about your employment. We encourage applicants to be detailed and thorough in preparing their resumes, and to include internships and volunteer experiences in addition to traditional full-time work experiences.

4. Admissions Essay In about 500-1,000 words, we ask that you describe your motivation for seeking graduate study in your chosen program at the School of Communication. The essay is an opportunity for the committee to get to know you, therefore discussions of your relevant qualifications and experiences are encouraged. Please address the following questions: What specific personal, academic and/or professional experiences will contribute to your success in the program? How do you envision your degree will further enhance your academic and/or professional goals? 5. Two letters of recommendation Letters should be from academic or professional persons who can attest to your ability to successfully perform in a graduate program or qualify for the work you have performed. We strongly recommend that at least one of the letters be from a faculty member who knows your work well. Visit the FAQ section Supplemental Items for more information about Letters of Recommendation.

6. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is optional, not required

7. Porfolio (optional) If you do have previous academic or professional experience in a communication or media field, submitting samples of your work will make your application stronger. The best way to submit your portfolio will be to provide a link to an external website or to create a PDF document with links to your work online and upload it as a supplemental item in the online application system. Make sure to submit your portfolio BEFORE the application is complete and all other required supporting documents have been received by the Admissions office. The Admissions Committee is unable to review portfolios after the application is complete.

8. Interview An interview is not required, but may be requested by the Admissions Committee.

9. English-language proficiency Proof of English Proficiency is required from all applicants whose native language is not English and who do not hold a bachelor's or master's degree from a U.S. accredited college/institution. Visit the International applicants section, #3 English Language Requirement for more information.