M.A. in Communication

Entry Requirements for International Students

Application Fees : US$ 90

For international students seeking postgraduate programs at the University of Arizona, certain entry requirements must be met. 

1. Academic Requirements: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UA are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 70% or above. This academic benchmark demonstrates a solid foundation and academic capability, ensuring students are prepared for the rigor of graduate studies.

2. English Language Proficiency: UA accepts several standardized English language tests as evidence of language proficiency, including:

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 7 is required to meet the language requirement.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 80 on the internet-base test (iBT) is necessary to fulfill the English language requirement.
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): An overall score of 68 or higher is required.
      
3. Standardized Test Requirements: GRE 302

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

Graduates of the M.A. in Communication program have diverse career opportunities across various industries:

1. Media and Journalism: Graduates can pursue careers in journalism, broadcasting, and digital media as reporters, producers, or media managers.

2. Public Relations and Advertising: Graduates may work in public relations agencies, advertising firms, or corporate communication departments, managing communication campaigns and branding strategies.

3. Social Media and Digital Marketing: Graduates can specialize in social media management and digital marketing, helping organizations reach their target audiences online.

4. Health Communication Specialist: Graduates may work in healthcare organizations, developing communication strategies to promote health education and awareness.

5. Political Campaign Manager: Graduates interested in politics can work as campaign managers or communication strategists for political candidates.

6. Corporate Communication Specialist: Graduates can become corporate communication specialists, managing internal and external communication for businesses.

7. Higher Education and Academia: Graduates can pursue further studies or teaching positions in communication departments at colleges and universities.

The M.A. in Communication program at the University of Arizona offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum that prepares students for exciting careers in various communication fields. With a strong foundation in communication theory, research methods, and practical skills, graduates are well-equipped to succeed in media, public relations, advertising, or pursue advanced studies in academia. The program's interdisciplinary approach and hands-on experiences ensure that graduates are adaptable and ready to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the communication industry.