M.A. in Communication

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 50

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution.  

2. Grade Point Average (GPA): International students are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 60% or higher on a scale determined by the applicant's home country's grading system.

English Language Proficiency:

1. IELTS: An overall score of at least 6.0 with no individual band score below 6.0.

2. TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 73 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test.

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of at least 105.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 49.

Western Illinois University (WIU) offers several scholarships to international students to assist them in financing their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, talents, leadership, and other criteria. 

1. Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships are among the most prestigious at WIU and are awarded to academically exceptional students. They cover a significant portion of tuition costs and are renewable for up to eight semesters.

2. International Commitment Scholarships: WIU offers a range of international commitment scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and are available at varying levels of funding.

3. International Transfer Scholarships: Transfer students from international institutions can apply for transfer scholarships to help fund their education at WIU. The scholarship amounts may vary based on academic achievement.

4. Global Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding international students. They are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.

5. International Peace Scholarship: WIU offers this scholarship to female international students who have a strong commitment to international understanding and peace. It's part of the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund.

6. Graduate Assistantships: WIU provides graduate assistantship opportunities to international graduate students. These positions offer a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable work experience within the university.

7. College and Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within WIU offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by department.

8. Foundation Scholarships: WIU's Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships are often based on specific majors or criteria defined by donors.

9. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help finance their education at WIU.

10. Fulbright Scholar Program: While not directly administered by WIU, international students can apply for the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program, which provides funding for academic and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.

To apply for scholarships at WIU, international students typically need to submit an application for admission and a separate scholarship application, if required. Deadlines and eligibility criteria can vary.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communication program at Western Illinois University in Macomb, USA, is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of communication. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors.   

1. Public Relations Specialists: Graduates of the M.A. in Communication program often pursue careers as public relations specialists. They work for corporations, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and PR firms to manage and shape the public image of their clients or employers. Their duties may include media relations, crisis communication, and strategic communication planning.

2. Corporate Communication Managers: Many M.A. in Communication graduates find success as corporate communication managers or directors. They play a crucial role in ensuring effective internal and external communication within organizations. They are responsible for managing communication strategies, employee engagement, and conveying the company's message to stakeholders.

3. Marketing and Advertising Professionals: Graduates with a background in communication are well-suited for roles in marketing and advertising. They can work as marketing managers, account executives, or creative directors, developing and executing marketing campaigns, managing client relationships, and creating persuasive advertising materials.

4. Social Media Managers: In the digital age, social media plays a vital role in communication. M.A. in Communication graduates often excel as social media managers. They create and manage social media content, engage with audiences, and analyze data to improve online presence and brand visibility.

5. Higher Education Administrators: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in higher education. They may work as academic advisors, admissions counselors, or student affairs professionals in colleges and universities. Their communication skills are valuable in supporting students and facilitating effective campus communication.

6. Non-profit and Advocacy Organizations: Many non-profit organizations require communication professionals to promote their causes, raise awareness, and engage with donors and volunteers. Graduates can work as communication directors or public affairs specialists for organizations dedicated to social and environmental causes.

7. Media and Journalism: Some graduates opt for careers in media and journalism. They become reporters, editors, or media producers, covering news, creating content, and delivering information to the public through print, broadcast, or digital media outlets.

8. Political Communication Specialists: With a deep understanding of communication strategies, some graduates enter the field of political communication. They work on political campaigns, in government offices, or as consultants, helping candidates and organizations effectively convey their messages to voters and constituents.

9. Market Research Analysts: Graduates can pursue careers as market research analysts, where they use their communication skills to gather and analyze data, conduct surveys, and provide insights to organizations for making informed business decisions.

10. Communication Trainers and Consultants: Some M.A. in Communication graduates choose to become communication trainers or consultants. They offer workshops and coaching to individuals and organizations, helping them improve their communication skills and strategies.

11. Continued Education and Doctoral Programs: For those interested in academia or advanced research, the M.A. in Communication can serve as a stepping stone to doctoral programs. Graduates can pursue a Ph.D. in Communication or related fields and become educators and researchers.

12. Alumni Success Stories: Western Illinois University's M.A. in Communication program has a history of producing successful alumni who have gone on to achieve notable careers in communication-related fields. Alumni often return to mentor and support current students.