M.S. in Mass Communications

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 80

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • A completed bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
   • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent. This is typically around 65% or higher, depending on the grading system of the institution.
      

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 120.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 65.

Scholarships for International Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)

1. Global Excellence Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to outstanding incoming international undergraduate students. It provides full tuition coverage for up to four years of study at VCU. Recipients are selected based on academic merit and their potential to contribute to the VCU community.

2. International Student Scholarships: VCU offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships vary in award amounts and eligibility criteria. They are typically based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments.

3. VCU Presidential International Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available for international students pursuing graduate studies at VCU. The awards cover partial tuition costs and are granted based on academic excellence. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and meet specific GPA requirements.

4. VCU School of Business Scholarships: The School of Business at VCU offers scholarships for international graduate students pursuing business-related programs. These scholarships aim to support students who have demonstrated exceptional academic and leadership qualities.

5. VCU Honors College Scholarships: The Honors College at VCU provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.

6. VCUarts Scholarships: For international students interested in pursuing degrees in the arts, VCUarts offers scholarships that are specific to their programs. These scholarships may include awards for outstanding portfolios or auditions.

7. VCU School of Engineering Scholarships: International students studying engineering at VCU may be eligible for scholarships offered by the School of Engineering. These scholarships are based on academic achievements and career aspirations in engineering fields.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at VCU may offer scholarships to international students within their specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by department.

9. External Scholarships: VCU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations. The university's scholarship office provides guidance on finding and applying for external scholarships.

10. Graduate Assistantships: While not traditional scholarships, graduate assistantships at VCU provide international graduate students with opportunities for financial support. These positions may include teaching, research, or administrative roles and often come with stipends and tuition waivers.

It's important for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and application procedures for each scholarship they are interested in. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is typically a requirement to retain scholarship awards.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Mass Communications program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a highly regarded and forward-thinking program that prepares students for dynamic careers in the ever-evolving field of mass communications. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, industry connections, and cutting-edge coursework, graduates of this program are well-equipped to excel in various mass media and communication roles.

1. Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates of the M.S. in Mass Communications program at VCU have access to a wide range of career opportunities in the field of mass media and communication. These may include roles in journalism, public relations, advertising, digital media, corporate communication, and more.

2. Journalism and Reporting: For those interested in journalism and reporting, the program provides a solid foundation in investigative journalism, multimedia storytelling, and newsroom management. Graduates may find employment as reporters, editors, or producers in newspapers, broadcast media, or online news outlets.

3. Public Relations and Strategic Communication: The program equips students with the skills needed to excel in public relations and strategic communication roles. Graduates may pursue careers as public relations specialists, communication consultants, or corporate communication managers.

4. Advertising and Marketing Communication: Students interested in advertising and marketing can develop expertise in branding, advertising strategy, and digital marketing. Graduates may find opportunities as advertising executives, marketing managers, or digital marketing specialists.

5. Digital Media and Social Media Management: With the increasing importance of digital media, the program prepares students for careers in digital media production, social media management, and content creation. Graduates may work as social media managers, digital content producers, or digital marketing specialists.

6. Media Management and Leadership: The program offers coursework in media management and leadership, preparing students for roles as media directors, newsroom managers, or media executives.

7. Nonprofit and Advocacy Communication: Graduates may choose to work in nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, or public affairs firms, where they can apply their communication skills to advance social causes and influence public opinion.

8. Media Research and Analysis: For those interested in media research and analysis, the program provides the skills needed to work in media analytics, market research, and audience measurement.

9. Independent Media and Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurial-minded graduates can explore opportunities in independent media, digital startups, or freelance journalism.

10. Networking and Industry Connections: VCU's M.S. in Mass Communications program offers students valuable networking opportunities through internships, guest speakers, and industry events. These connections can lead to internships and job placements in reputable media organizations.

11. Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: The program emphasizes adaptability and the ability to stay current in a rapidly changing media landscape, which is crucial for long-term career success in mass communications.