Q: How do I apply?

A: Click here for detailed application instructions.

Q: Do I need a master's degree in order to be eligible to apply?

A: No. Students are admitted as long as they have a U-M equivalent bachelor's degree. The faculty look for students with some prior research experience. If you did not participate in research as an undergraduate student (e.g., by working as a research assistant or by completing an honor's thesis), you may also have gained that experience by pursing a master's degree.

Q: Does the Department of Communication Studies offer a master's degree?

A: No. The department does not have a master's program. All applicants are considered for admission to the Ph.D. program.

Q: What are the minimum GPA and GRE requirements for admission to the program?

A: The faculty take all parts of an application into consideration. The selection process is very competitive. Applicants are expected to be well-prepared for graduate study.

Q: Can I visit campus?

A: Any applicant interested in visiting campus is welcome to contact the department to schedule a visit. Applicants are responsible for their own travel and accommodations. After the admissions process is completed, all admitted applicants will be invited to attend the department's Welcome Weekend at the department's expense. This weekend is scheduled prior to the April 15th notification deadline, when admitted applicants announce their decisions, and it is designed to give admitted applicants a better sense of the people, program, and resources at U-M.

Q: Do I need to submit GRE scores with my application?

A: Yes, all applicants are required to submit official GRE scores directly to the Rackham Graduate School via Educational Testing Service (ETS). Unofficial copies, photocopies, or faxed copies of score reports cannot be accepted.

Q: I am an international student, do I need to submit TOEFL scores?

A: If you are a non-native English speaker you must demonstrate English proficiency and are required to provide one of following official score reports:
IBT TOEFL, Paper/Pencil TOEFL and TWE, MELAB, IELTS, or ECPE.

Q: I am reapplying to your program, do you still have the information from my previous application?

A: We keep applications on file for one year. If you would like us to pull your records, please send an email message to commphd@umich.edu that includes your full name, UMID if known, and your date of birth. Additionally, please let us know if you will be submitting any additional or updated information. Please note: You will need to complete a new application and pay the application fee again.

Q: I am an international applicant, do I need to complete the University of Michigan Statement and Certification of Finances?

A: Yes. While all admitted students are funded for five years, it is necessary to have this documentation on file for timely processing of immigration paperwork. Failure to submit this document could result in a delay in a student's ability to begin the program.