M.A. in Professional Communication

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
   • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 60% or equivalent, depending on the grading system of the country where the degree was earned.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: An overall band score of at least 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.0.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 90 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 120 is required.                                                                                                                                   
3. WES evaluation is required.

The University of Tampa is committed to making education accessible to students from around the world, and these scholarships help ease the financial burden for international students pursuing their academic goals at UT.

1. International Student Scholarship: The University of Tampa offers competitive merit-based scholarships to international undergraduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments. The amounts vary but can significantly reduce tuition costs.

2. Honors Program Scholarships: Exceptional international students may be eligible for the Honors Program at UT, which comes with additional scholarships and academic benefits. These scholarships are highly competitive and aim to attract top-tier students.

3. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students pursuing master's degrees may have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships. These positions provide a stipend and often include a tuition waiver. Graduate assistants work closely with faculty or in administrative roles.

4. Alumni Legacy Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international undergraduate students who have a parent or grandparent who graduated from the University of Tampa. It offers financial assistance to the next generation of UT students.

5. Phi Theta Kappa Scholarships: Transfer students who are members of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society may be eligible for this scholarship. It recognizes academic excellence and helps reduce the cost of attending UT.

6. Sports Scholarships: UT has a successful athletics program, and international students with exceptional athletic abilities may be considered for sports scholarships. These scholarships are typically awarded to student-athletes who excel in their chosen sport.

7. External Scholarships: While not directly offered by UT, international students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities. Various organizations, foundations, and governments provide scholarships for students studying in the United States. UT's financial aid office can assist in identifying these opportunities.

8. Graduate Program Scholarships: Some individual graduate programs at UT offer scholarships or assistantships specific to their field of study. Prospective graduate students should check with their respective departments for available funding options.

9. Tampa Scholars Program: This scholarship program is designed for high-achieving Florida residents, but a limited number of scholarships may be available for out-of-state and international students. It provides a comprehensive financial aid package.

It's important for international students to review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship opportunity. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is often a requirement for scholarship renewal.

The M.A. in Professional Communication program at the University of Tampa equips graduates with advanced communication skills that are highly sought after in a wide range of industries. Effective communication is vital for organizations to succeed, and as such, professionals with expertise in this field are in high demand. This program is an excellent choice for individuals passionate about communication and its impact on organizations and society.

1. Public Relations Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as public relations specialists, working to build and maintain positive relationships between organizations and the public. They craft press releases, manage media relations, and develop communication strategies.

2. Corporate Communications Manager: Corporate communications managers oversee internal and external communication for businesses and organizations. They develop messaging, manage crisis communication, and ensure brand consistency.

3. Content Strategist: Content strategists focus on creating and implementing content plans that align with an organization's goals. They may oversee content for websites, social media, and marketing campaigns.

4. Marketing Communications Manager: Marketing communications managers develop and execute marketing campaigns, coordinating efforts across various channels such as advertising, email marketing, and social media.

5. Digital Media Manager: In the digital age, digital media managers are essential. They oversee an organization's online presence, including website content, social media, and digital marketing efforts.

6. Media Relations Specialist: Media relations specialists work with the media to promote an organization's news and stories. They may pitch story ideas, arrange interviews, and handle media inquiries.

7. Event Planner: Event planners coordinate and execute events, conferences, and promotional activities. Effective communication is crucial in this role to ensure the success of events.

8. Social Media Manager: Social media managers are responsible for managing an organization's social media accounts, creating content, and engaging with followers to build brand awareness.

9. Healthcare Communications Specialist: In the healthcare sector, graduates can work as communications specialists, helping healthcare organizations convey important information to patients, families, and the public.

10. Nonprofit Communications Director: Nonprofit organizations rely on strong communication to raise awareness and support for their causes. Communications directors in nonprofits strategize and execute communication efforts.

11. Political Communication Consultant: Some graduates may choose careers in political communication, working with political candidates, campaigns, or advocacy groups to shape their messaging and public image.

12. Academic Advisor: Universities and colleges often hire communication professionals as academic advisors to guide students in selecting courses, majors, and career paths.

13. Internal Communications Manager: Internal communications managers focus on communication within organizations, ensuring that employees are informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization's goals.

14. Government Public Affairs Specialist: Government agencies hire public affairs specialists to communicate government policies, initiatives, and information to the public and stakeholders.

15. Freelance Writer or Consultant: Some graduates may opt for freelance careers, offering their communication expertise to various clients in industries such as business, healthcare, or technology.