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FAQs

Q: How do I apply?

A: Click here for detailed application instructions.

Q: Do I need a Master's degree in order to be eligible to apply?

A: No. You are eligible to apply as long as you have a US equivalent bachelor's degree. However, strong candidates for the program will have with some prior research experience or research exposure. If you did not participate in research as an undergraduate student (e.g., by working as a research assistant or by completing an honor's thesis), you may also have gained that experience by pursing a Master's degree.

Q: Does the Department of Communication and Media offer a Master's degree?

A: No. The department does not have a master's program.

Q: What are the minimum GPA and GRE requirements for admission to the program?

A: The faculty take all parts of an application into consideration. The selection process is very competitive. Applicants are expected to be well-prepared for graduate study. The department does not have an official minimum GPA or GRE score.

Q: Can I visit campus?

A: Any applicant interested in visiting campus is welcome to contact the department to schedule a visit. Please email lsa-commphd@umich.edu. Applicants are responsible for their own travel and accommodations. 

After the admissions process is completed, all admitted applicants will be invited to attend the department's Welcome Weekend at the department's expense. This weekend is scheduled prior to the April 15th notification deadline, when admitted applicants announce their decisions, and it is designed to give admitted applicants a better sense of the people, program, and resources at U-M.

Q: Do I need to submit GRE scores with my application?

A: No, applicants are not required to submit GRE scores. You may still submit your score, but it will not be reviewed by the Admissions Committee. U-M's Institution Code is 1839.

Q: I am an international student, do I need to submit TOEFL scores?

A: If you are a non-native English speaker you must demonstrate English proficiency and are required to provide one of following official score reports:
IBT TOEFL, Paper/Pencil TOEFL and TWE, or IELTS.

The department's policy on submitting TOEFL or IELTS scores differs from that of the Rackham Graduate School. Non-native English speakers, regardless of undergraduate or Master's education, must submit English proficiency scores in order to be considered by the admissions review committee.

Q: I am reapplying to your program, do you still have the information from my previous application?

A: We keep applications on file for one year. If you would like us to pull your records, please send an email message to lsa-commphd@umich.edu that includes your full name, UMID if known, and your date of birth. Additionally, please let us know if you will be submitting any additional or updated information.

Please note: You will need to complete a new online application and pay the application fee again.

Q: I am an international applicant, do I need to complete the University of Michigan Statement and Certification of Finances?

A: No. International applicants need not complete this document in order to be considered for admission to the program.