Q: Don’t I need straight As to get into grad school?

A: No. We require a 3.0 cumulative GPA, or a 3.25 in the last 60 units. If you don’t meet the GPA minimum, we recommend that you successfully complete some additional courses, preferably upper division communication courses, to raise it.

Q: What about pre-reqs?

A: There aren’t any, per se, although you might be asked to take extra undergraduate methods courses in rhetorical and/or quantitative methods if you earned less than a B- in your methods courses or did not complete any during your undergraduate program. These classes would count toward your M.A.

Q: Any advice for the academic writing samples?

A: Yes. Submit examples of your best academic writing that show your ability to critique and analyze ideas. Get feedback from peers and professors, and revise old class papers or create something new. It is preferrable that these writing samples are substantive and address communication studies, although any subject is acceptable.

Q: What type of GRE scores are you looking for?

A: None. We have removed the GRE as an admissions requirement due to evidence that it is biased against people of color, women, and those of lower socio-economic status, in addition to not being very useful in predicting success in graduate school according to several research studies. You are welcome to submit GRE scores, but they are not required.

Q: Is the program compatible with working professionals

A: Absolutely. Most of our students work full time during the day and take classes in the afternoon or evening. Our courses are almost exclusively offered in the late afternoon or evening.

Q: How many classes do grad students usually take per semester?

A: Usually two three-unit classes or the equivalent. Full time graduate study is considered six units, in terms of workload. (Full time for financial aid purposes is 8 units)

Q: How much does the grad program cost?

A: For in-state students, tuition is $5,906 per year, including fees (taking six units per semester). For non-residents, there is an extra fee of $396 per unit. (Current as of January 2023)

Q: Are grad students eligible for financial aid and grants?

A: Yes. Turn in your FAFSA early!

Q: Is there funding available?

A: Yes. We offer funding in the form of the Graduate Assistant and Teaching Associate programs. The GA salary is approximately $1,815 per semester, per lab section taught (spread over five months). The TA salary is approximately $7,524 per semester for two courses (spread over six months). [Salary information current as of August 2022]

Q: Advice for the application materials?

A: Proofread carefully, customize materials to our program, and get everything submitted on time. For statements of purpose and personal statements, we strongly recommend answering the questions listed in the Application Process section.

Q: What if I don't have three professors to write letters of rec?

A: While our preference is for letters of recommendation to come from professors who can speak to your preparation for graduate level education, we do accept letters from employers and references who know you well.