Transcript:
You may now upload a copy of your transcripts to the online application. If you are admitted to the program and decide to attend, then you will need to provide the official transcript. If you choose to submit an official transcript at this time, please send them to the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, 5115 Vilas Hall, 821 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706.
Curriculum Vitae:
Be certain to include information about awards, honors, and publications. If you cannot find a place to upload or attach your résumé or CV in the online application, then send it by postal mail to: School of Journalism and Mass Communication, 5115 Vilas Hall, 821 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706.
Personal Statement:
The graduate committee pays careful attention to an applicant’s ability to outline clear and appropriate goals for graduate study. Provide a brief, focused statement of your educational and career goals and your reasons for selecting this graduate program. Discuss those factors—personal, professional, academic—that have prepared you to pursue a graduate degree. All Professional M.A. applicants should indicate in some detail what kind of specialty they will seek and why. The statement should be about 750 words in length. Your statement may be submitted electronically as part your application or mailed separately to the School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Recommendation Letter:
Letters of recommendation are completed online. An email with a link to an online evaluation form will be sent to your recommenders when you submit your application. When you list your three recommenders, please be sure the email address is accurate and valid.
Letters of recommendation for recent graduates should come primarily from faculty members who can evaluate your previous academic performance and provide an assessment of your likelihood of success in graduate school. One of the letters may come from an employer or internship supervisor.
Applicants who have been out of school for a number of years may submit letters from people who know them in a professional capacity, such as a current supervisor or employer. Letters should come from individuals who have worked directly with you and who are in a position to objectively evaluate your abilities and work product.
We are interested in an assessment of those attributes that predict success in rigorous graduate education (for example, analytical abilities, ability to synthesize complex bodies of information and ability to formulate original research questions), rather than a general impression of your personality or character.
Writing Sample:
Applicants to the MA professional degree should submit a Writing Sample in a .doc, .docx, or pdf format not to exceed 10 printed pages. No CDs, DVDs or other material will be accepted or considered. Writing Samples could include news articles, blog posts, white papers, reports, or portions of an academic paper. Professionally published samples are preferred but not required.
Applicants to the Research MA and PhD programs may submit supplementary application materials. Please limit any supplementary materials to 10 printed pages. Please do not submit CDs, DVDs, etc.