M.A. in Communication Studies: Liberal Arts and Sciences

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement is a 60% or higher score in the undergraduate program.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required for postgraduate programs.
  • No individual band score should be less than 6.
     

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test):

  • A minimum overall score of 79 is expected.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

• PTE (Pearson Test of English):

  • An overall score of 53 or higher is required.
     

• DET (Duolingo English Test):

  • A minimum score of 110 is the benchmark.

3. NACES credential evaluation required.

Ball State University is committed to promoting diversity and providing financial support to international students. 

1. Ball State's International Student Scholarships: Ball State University offers a variety of merit-based scholarships exclusively for international students. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities.

2. University-Wide Scholarships: International students are eligible to apply for university-wide scholarships that are open to all students, regardless of their nationality. These scholarships often have specific criteria and requirements.

3. Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at Ball State University offer scholarships to international students pursuing degrees within those departments. These scholarships may be based on academic performance, major, or specific achievements.

4. Study Abroad Scholarships: Ball State encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university offers scholarships to help cover the costs associated with studying abroad, promoting global experiences and cultural exchange.

5. Research and Assistantships: Some international graduate students may have the opportunity to work as research assistants or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and tuition remission. These roles offer valuable professional development.

6. Privately Funded Scholarships: There are external scholarship opportunities for international students provided by private organizations, foundations, and government agencies. Ball State's scholarship office assists students in identifying and applying for these external scholarships.

7. Cultural Scholarships: Ball State University may offer scholarships to students who are actively involved in promoting their own cultures and engaging in cultural exchange on campus.

8. Full-Ride Scholarships: In some cases, highly qualified international students may be eligible for full-ride scholarships that cover tuition, fees, and living expenses.

9. Community Scholarships: Local community organizations and partners sometimes provide scholarships to international students who are engaged in community service and demonstrate a commitment to the local area.

10. International Student Services Support: - Ball State's International Student Services office assists students in finding scholarship opportunities, completing applications, and meeting deadlines. They provide valuable guidance throughout the process.

11. Renewability and Eligibility: - Scholarship renewability and eligibility criteria may vary for each scholarship, and it is essential for international students to maintain academic excellence and meet specific requirements.

12. Application Deadlines: - International students should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines to ensure they have the best chance of receiving financial aid.

Ball State University's Master of Arts in Communication Studies program, nestled within the Liberal Arts and Sciences framework, offers students a dynamic and comprehensive education in the field of communication. Graduates emerge from the program well-equipped with skills that open doors to diverse and rewarding career opportunities.

1. Corporate Communications Manager: Graduates may pursue roles as corporate communications managers, developing and implementing communication strategies for organizations. They ensure consistent messaging, manage internal and external communications, and enhance the company's public image.

2. Public Relations Specialist: Careers in public relations involve crafting and maintaining a positive public image for clients. Graduates may work for PR agencies, government organizations, or corporations, managing media relations, creating press releases, and organizing events.

3. Digital Media Strategist: In the age of digital communication, graduates may become digital media strategists, developing online campaigns, managing social media presence, and analyzing digital trends to enhance organizational communication.

4. Higher Education Administrator: Graduates interested in academia may pursue careers as higher education administrators. They can work in student affairs, admissions, or academic advising, contributing to the overall success and communication within educational institutions.

5. Marketing Communications Specialist: Marketing communications specialists focus on creating content that promotes products or services. Graduates may work for advertising agencies or in-house marketing teams, developing and executing communication plans to reach target audiences.

6. Political Campaign Manager: For those interested in the intersection of communication and politics, graduates can explore careers as political campaign managers. They coordinate campaign messaging, manage communication strategies, and engage with the public to support political candidates.

7. Training and Development Specialist: Graduates may enter the field of training and development, creating and delivering communication-focused training programs for employees. They play a crucial role in enhancing workplace communication skills.

8. Social Impact Consultant: Those passionate about social change may become social impact consultants. They collaborate with nonprofits, advocacy groups, and community organizations to develop effective communication strategies that drive positive change.

9. Event Planner: The skills acquired in the program can lead graduates to careers as event planners. They organize and coordinate events, ensuring effective communication before, during, and after the event to achieve desired outcomes.

10. Media Analyst: Graduates may work as media analysts, evaluating the impact of communication campaigns and strategies. They use data and analytics to measure the effectiveness of messaging and make recommendations for improvement.