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Frequently Asked Questions

Mass Communications, M.A.

  • Begin the application process on the BYU Graduate Studies website. Indicate whether you are a domestic or international applicant and follow the initial instructions. Then apply for the Mass Communication M.A. program here.

  • The application deadline is March 31 of each year.
    Admission decisions are typically made in late spring for students beginning the program in fall semester.

  • Applicants must submit:

    • Completed online application 
    • GRE scores* 
    • Statement of intent (essay) 
    • Resume or curriculum vitae 
    • Three letters of recommendation 
    • Official transcripts from all institutions attended 
    • TOEFL/IELTS scores (for international students)

    Additional expectations include:

    • Exposure to research and statistics 
    • Professional competence in written and spoken English 

    *Important notes about the GRE:

    • The GRE is required for all applicants to the Mass Communication M.A. program. 
    • It cannot be substituted with other exams (such as the LSAT). 
    • GRE waivers are rarely granted, and only considered for applicants with extensive professional experience in the communications field. 
    • The GRE has proven to be a strong indicator of success in our program, helping ensure all admitted students are prepared for graduate-level study. 

  • Admission rankings are based on a holistic review of all materials, including:

    • GRE scores 
    • Undergraduate GPA 
    • Application essays 
    • Video interview responses (if required) 
    • Recommendation letters 

    For a competitive application:

    • Aim for a GRE writing score of 4.5 and a combined verbal and quantitative score near 300 
    • A minimum GPA of 3.0 is recommended 
    • Relevant research or professional experience can strengthen your application 

    The admissions committee evaluates program fit, meaning how your academic goals align with the Mass Communications program’s research focus and values.

  • The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test used to assess readiness for graduate study. It includes sections on verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.

    Register for the test through ETS. You can take it at an approved testing center or online. Allow sufficient time for your scores to reach BYU before the March 31 deadline.

    The GRE is an important part of the admissions process and has proven to be a strong indicator of success in our program.

  • If English is not your first language, you must submit proof of English proficiency via the TOEFL or IELTS exam.
    Requirements and score minimums are listed on the BYU Graduate Studies English Proficiency page.

    Even if English is an official language in your country, you may still be required to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score unless your country is listed among BYU’s exempt nations.

    If you have completed coursework through a U.S.-accredited institution (such as Ensign College or BYU–Pathway Worldwide) while residing outside the United States, the English proficiency requirement still applies.

    These requirements ensure readiness for graduate-level academic writing, research, and discussion.

    If you are currently abroad or have limited time, plan ahead—completing both the GRE and English proficiency tests may take several weeks.

  • Yes. Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions are paid hourly. As of the current year, compensation is $21/hour for first-year students and $23/hour for second-year students. These positions provide valuable research experience and may include tuition benefits.

  • The School of Communications offers a limited number of Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) and Teaching Assistant (TA) positions.
    Additional scholarships or fellowships may be available through BYU Graduate Studies Funding Resources. Funding availability varies by year.

  • No. Applicants from a variety of undergraduate backgrounds are welcome. However, you should demonstrate strong writing skills and some exposure to research or statistics. If your prior coursework doesn’t include these areas, additional preparation may be recommended after admission.

  • We understand that testing and application fees can be a challenge, especially for international applicants.

    While the GRE and English proficiency tests are required for admission, you are encouraged to explore scholarships offered through BYU and external funding sources.
    BYU provides scholarships for international students, and there are external grants and funding databases that may help offset these costs.

    For more information, visit the BYU International Student Scholarships page or explore additional opportunities through the David M. Kennedy Center Scholarships page.

  • Applicants may be asked to complete a video or live interview. During the interview, you’ll discuss your academic background, research interests, and career goals.
    Be prepared to explain why you are interested in BYU’s Mass Communications program and how it fits your future plans. The interview is also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the program.

  • Yes. Once you start the online application, you’ll see a list of essay questions specific to the Mass Communications program. These help the admissions committee assess your academic interests, writing ability, and program fit.

  • If your transcripts are not in English, you must include official English translations with your application.
    For details, visit the BYU Graduate Studies Transcript Information page.

  • Transfer credits are reviewed individually and must be approved by both the School of Communications and BYU Graduate Studies.
    Typically, up to 9 semester hours of relevant graduate coursework may be transferred if they meet program standards.

  • The Master of Arts in Mass Communications is a rigorous, research-focused program designed for students pursuing doctoral preparation or leadership roles in media and strategic communication.
    The curriculum emphasizes:

    • Media theory 
    • Research methods 
    • Scholarly and professional writing 

    Students work closely with faculty mentors and often participate in research leading to conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.

  • The program requires a thesis, not a professional project. Students conduct original research, write a scholarly thesis, and defend it before a committee.

  • Most students complete the degree—including 10 courses and a thesis—within two years of full-time study.

  • No. The Mass Communications M.A. program is an in-person program based on BYU’s Provo campus.

  • The program admits approximately 10–15 students each fall semester.

  • For questions about the Mass Communications M.A. program, please contact:

    Mandi Rolfe – Graduate Program Manager
    mandi_rolfe@byu.edu | 801-422-2632 | 360D BRMB

    Dr. Pamela Brubaker – Graduate Coordinator
    pamela_brubaker@byu.edu | 801-422-5591 | 360C BRMB