The Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication master’s program is a 32-credit course of study culminating in a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in journalism and mass communication. Two tracks are available: one for students who desire specialized study in communication theory and research and one for students who wish to develop or strengthen their professional and strategic communication skills.

Why Greenlee?

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4+1 Graduate Program

Our 4+1 program allows you to complete both an undergraduate and graduate degree in 5 years by taking graduate-level courses in your fourth year at Iowa State. Your final courses and thesis or creative component will be completed in your fifth year. This is a great opportunity to earn both your undergraduate and graduate degree, expanding your career opportunities.

Graduate Minor

Students in other graduate programs may obtain a minor in journalism and mass communication by completing JL MC 5010, JL MC 5100 and one other graduate course in journalism and mass communication for a total of 9 credits taken within the Greenlee School.

Graduate Admissions

The Greenlee School reviews applications to its master’s program on a rolling basis.

Application Requirements

Applicants must meet all requirements set by the Graduate College. In addition, the Greenlee School requires that applicants meet the following admission standards:

  • An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution of higher learning in a relevant course of study
  • A 3.0 minimum undergraduate grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale. (To convert GPA use this calculator)
  • For international applicants, demonstrated English proficiency with a minimum score of 88 on the Internet-based TOEFL, 6.5 on IELTS, 60 on Pearson Test of English, or 110 on DuoLingo

To be reviewed by Greenlee’s Graduate Steering Committee, applications must include the following:

  • A statement of purpose in which the applicant describes his/her/their objectives in pursuing the master’s degree, career goals and research interests
  • A resume that provides a summary of the applicant’s academic and employment history, honors and publications (if any)
  • Transcripts from the undergraduate institution
  • Three letters of recommendation that attest to the applicant’s aptitude for study at the graduate level
  • Examples of professional and scholarly work (optional)

An applicant whose scholastic average does not meet the Greenlee School requirements may still be considered if the applicant presents evidence of notable professional qualifications and strong recommendations.

Although the Greenlee School reviews applications as they arrive, applications must be received by Jan. 15 (for those planning to begin graduate work in August or the fall semester) and by the middle of October (for those planning to begin graduate work in January or the spring semester) for full consideration of graduate assistantships. International students should apply early enough to be admitted, submit the required documents, and secure a visa before the start of their chosen semester.

Find more information about admission requirements and application procedures in the Graduate Handbook and on the Graduate College website.  As you’re considering a major professor, please reference the directory of graduate faculty and bios available on the Greenlee website.

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