M.A. in Communications Studies

Entry Requirements for postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement for postgraduate admission is typically a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 60% or above.

English Language Proficiency Requirements: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0  is required with no individual band score below 6.5.

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): The minimum overall score required is 94.  

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Kent State University accepts the DET, with a minimum score of 110.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum overall score of 65 is required.

Kent State University offers a range of scholarships to international students to help them manage the cost of tuition and make their education more affordable. 

1. Global Scholarship: The Global Scholarship is a merit-based award for undergraduate international students. It ranges from $2,000 to $7,500 per year and is renewable based on academic performance. Applicants are automatically considered for this scholarship upon admission.

2. International Freshman Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for first-time, incoming international undergraduate students. It provides awards ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 per year. Students are automatically considered when they apply for admission.

3. International Transfer Student Scholarship: Transfer students from international institutions are eligible for this scholarship, which offers awards from $4,000 to $9,500 per year. The scholarship is based on academic merit, and applicants are considered upon admission.

4. Kent State University Honors College Scholarship: Exceptional international undergraduate students may apply for the Honors College Scholarship. It covers in-state tuition and offers additional funding for research and study abroad opportunities.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Kent State University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships provide a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable professional experience.

6. Graduate Dean's Award for Excellence: This award is for outstanding international graduate students and covers partial tuition costs. Eligibility and application details vary by department and program.

7. Global Diversity Scholarship: Kent State recognizes the value of diversity on campus. This scholarship, awarded to incoming undergraduate international students, provides $4,000 per year for up to four years.

8. Other Scholarships: Kent State University also offers various department-specific scholarships and awards. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so students should check with their academic departments.

9. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundation scholarships, and international organizations' funding programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Kent State University in the United States offers a highly regarded Master of Arts (M.A.) program in Communication Studies. This program is designed to equip students with advanced communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deep understanding of communication theory and practice. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in fields that require effective communication and leadership.

1. Corporate Communication Specialist: Graduates can work as corporate communication specialists, helping organizations develop and maintain effective communication strategies. They may be responsible for internal communication, crisis communication, or public relations efforts.

2. Public Relations Manager: PR managers play a crucial role in shaping an organization's image and reputation. M.A. in Communication Studies graduates can excel in this role, crafting compelling narratives and managing media relations.

3. Media Relations Specialist: These professionals work with media outlets to promote their organization's news and stories. They help secure media coverage and manage interactions with journalists and reporters.

4. Marketing Manager: In the world of marketing, effective communication is key. Graduates with expertise in communication studies can excel in marketing management roles, developing and implementing marketing campaigns.

5. Social Media Manager: With the growth of social media, organizations require experts who can navigate the digital landscape. M.A. graduates can work as social media managers, creating and managing content across various platforms.

6. Advertising Executive: Advertising executives create and oversee advertising campaigns for businesses and organizations. They craft messages that resonate with target audiences, making this role an ideal fit for communication studies graduates.

7. Human Resources Specialist: HR specialists often require strong communication skills to manage employee relations, training programs, and internal communications. M.A. graduates can thrive in HR roles, fostering a positive work environment.

8. Political Campaign Manager: In the realm of politics, communication is pivotal. Graduates can work as campaign managers, overseeing communication strategies, public appearances, and grassroots efforts for political candidates.

9. Higher Education Administration: Many universities and colleges value communication expertise in their administrative roles. Graduates can work as academic advisors, student affairs professionals, or in admissions offices.

10. Nonprofit Leadership: Nonprofits rely on effective communication to promote their causes and secure funding. Graduates can take on leadership roles within nonprofit organizations, helping them achieve their missions.

11. Event Planner: Event planning requires strong communication skills to coordinate logistics, work with clients, and ensure successful events. Graduates can excel in this field, organizing conferences, conventions, and special events.

12. Healthcare Communication Specialist: Effective communication is crucial in healthcare settings. Graduates can work as healthcare communication specialists, liaising between medical professionals and patients or managing public health campaigns.