M.S. in Media Studies

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at SIUE, international students should have completed an undergraduate degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. This degree should be in a relevant field related to the chosen postgraduate program.

2. Academic Performance: Prospective postgraduate students should have a minimum academic score of 60% or its equivalent in their undergraduate studies. SIUE considers this as a baseline for eligibility.

English Language Proficiency:

1. IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher is required, with no individual band score less than 6.0. 

2. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79 is usually required. 

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of 120 or higher on the DET is often accepted as proof of English language proficiency.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): Some programs may accept a minimum PTE score of 53 or higher.

Scholarships for International Students at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE):

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: SIUE offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international students, including undergraduate and graduate programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. Some of these scholarships may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Global Ambassador Scholarship: SIUE's Center for International Programs awards the Global Ambassador Scholarship to a select number of undergraduate international students who have demonstrated leadership skills and a commitment to promoting cultural exchange on campus.

3. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students at SIUE have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide a stipend and tuition waivers. These assistantships may involve research, teaching, or administrative duties and are available in various academic departments.

4. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities offered by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office may provide guidance on finding and applying for such scholarships.

5. International Tuition Waivers: SIUE offers tuition waivers to international students who meet certain criteria. These waivers can significantly reduce the cost of tuition for eligible students.

6. Graduate School Scholarships: Graduate students can inquire about scholarships and funding opportunities specific to their academic departments or programs. Many departments offer financial support to exceptional graduate students.

7. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students pursuing research-based or teaching-focused programs may have the opportunity to work as research or teaching assistants. These positions often come with a stipend and tuition remission.

8. Fulbright Program: SIUE participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students, scholars, and professionals to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Students from eligible countries can apply for Fulbright scholarships.

9. Cultural Exchange Programs: SIUE may collaborate with cultural exchange programs that provide scholarships for international students. These programs aim to foster international understanding and cultural exchange.

10. Private Scholarships: International students can explore private scholarships offered by foundations, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Media Studies program at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) offers students an exciting and diverse range of career prospects in the dynamic field of media and communication. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, critical thinking, and theoretical knowledge, this program prepares graduates to excel in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

1. Media Production: Graduates can pursue careers as producers, directors, editors, and cinematographers in various media production settings, including film, television, and digital media. They may work on documentaries, feature films, news broadcasts, or web series.

2. Broadcasting: Graduates can enter the broadcasting industry as journalists, news anchors, reporters, or multimedia content producers. They may work for television stations, radio stations, or online news outlets.

3. Digital Marketing: The digital age demands skilled professionals in digital marketing. Graduates can work as social media managers, content strategists, digital marketers, or SEO specialists for businesses, advertising agencies, or digital marketing firms.

4. Public Relations: Opportunities in public relations include roles as PR specialists, communication managers, or media relations experts. Graduates can work in public relations agencies, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or corporations.

5. Advertising: The advertising field offers careers in advertising management, copywriting, art direction, and media planning. Graduates may work for advertising agencies, marketing firms, or in-house marketing departments.

6. Academia and Research: For those interested in academia, this program can serve as a stepping stone to pursue a Ph.D. and become educators, researchers, or scholars in media studies, journalism, or communication departments at universities and colleges.

7. Media Management: Graduates can enter media management positions, such as media coordinators, media analysts, or media planners, in agencies, media companies, or marketing departments.

8. Freelance and Entrepreneurship: Many media professionals choose to work as freelancers, consultants, or start their own media-related businesses, offering services like video production, content creation, or digital marketing.