M.S. in Communications

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 30

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution is required for admission to postgraduate programs.
• The applicant's academic record should demonstrate a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or an equivalent of 65% or above.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6 is required.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80 is required.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is accepted.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53 in PTE Academic is required.

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) offers various scholarships to help international students with their educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. 

1. International Merit Scholarship: GVSU offers merit-based scholarships to international students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The award amounts may vary, but they are typically based on a student's academic achievements. The scholarships are competitive and awarded to high-achieving students.

2. GVSU Graduate School Scholarships: Graduate students may be eligible for scholarships offered by the GVSU Graduate School. These scholarships aim to support outstanding graduate students in various academic disciplines.

3. Study Abroad Scholarships: GVSU encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university provides scholarships to students who wish to study abroad and gain valuable international experience.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and programs within the university offer scholarships for students pursuing specific majors. These scholarships are often based on academic performance and potential in the chosen field of study.

5. Cultural and Identity-Based Scholarships: GVSU promotes diversity and inclusivity. As a result, there are scholarships available for students who contribute to the diversity of the university community. These scholarships recognize students from underrepresented backgrounds.

6. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which may include a stipend, tuition remission, and valuable work experience in teaching or research.

7. Foundation Scholarships: GVSU Foundation Scholarships are made possible through the generosity of donors. These scholarships cover a wide range of academic disciplines and may be available to both undergraduate and graduate international students.

8. Community College Transfer Scholarships: International students transferring from U.S. community colleges to GVSU may be eligible for transfer scholarships, which can help with the cost of completing their bachelor's degrees.

9. Graduate International Student Endowed Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically designed for international graduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential.

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) offers a comprehensive Master of Science (M.S.) in Communications program that equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in various dynamic and ever-evolving fields of communication. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a multitude of career prospects.  

1. Public Relations Specialist: M.S. in Communications graduates are well-suited for roles as public relations specialists. They work to shape, maintain, and enhance the public image of organizations. This role involves crafting effective communication strategies, managing media relations, and handling crisis communications.

2. Corporate Communications Manager: In the corporate world, effective communication is crucial. Communications program graduates can pursue careers as corporate communications managers, overseeing internal and external communication efforts, managing public relations, and ensuring consistent messaging.

3. Marketing Communications Manager: Marketing communications managers are responsible for developing and implementing marketing campaigns. With a strong background in communications, program graduates can excel in creating persuasive advertising and marketing materials, as well as digital marketing strategies.

4. Media Relations Specialist: This role involves working with media outlets to generate positive coverage for organizations or individuals. M.S. in Communications graduates can effectively liaise with journalists, write press releases, and coordinate media interviews.

5. Content Strategist: Content strategists play a crucial role in developing and executing content marketing strategies. They create engaging, valuable content for various platforms, including websites, blogs, and social media, to attract and retain audiences.

6. Digital Marketing Specialist: In the digital age, digital marketing specialists are in high demand. Graduates with a strong foundation in communications can excel in this role, managing online advertising, social media marketing, and email campaigns.

7. Social Media Manager: With the proliferation of social media, organizations rely on social media managers to build and maintain a strong online presence. M.S. in Communications graduates can manage social media accounts, develop content calendars, and engage with followers.

8. Market Research Analyst: Market research analysts study market conditions to identify potential sales opportunities for a product or service. Graduates can apply their analytical and research skills to this role.

9. Political Communication Consultant: This career path is ideal for those interested in political communication. Graduates can work as political consultants, helping candidates and organizations craft compelling campaign messages and strategies.

10. Nonprofit Communication Director: Graduates can find rewarding careers in the nonprofit sector as communication directors. They coordinate communication efforts for nonprofit organizations, raise awareness, and engage donors and volunteers.

11. Freelance Writer or Consultant: For those who prefer a more independent career path, the M.S. in Communications provides the skills and knowledge to work as freelance writers or consultants, offering their expertise to a variety of clients.

12. Higher Education and Academia: Some graduates may choose to pursue higher education and teach communication courses at colleges and universities. A master's degree can open doors to these teaching positions.