Journalism and Mass Communication

Graduate-Program-Daniela-office
Collaborate closely with award-winning faculty on innovative projects in multimedia journalism, public relations, advertising, media ethics, and communication technology. Gain practical experience through internships, media partnerships, and cutting-edge facilities. Whether your aspirations involve reporting on global issues, shaping public opinion, or leading communication strategies for organizations, Iowa State provides the expertise and resources to excel in today's rapidly evolving media landscape.
Program Homepage Program Handbook

Majors plan a program of study in one of two tracks:

I. Academic track -- The School offers advanced academic preparation in communication theory and research, leading to the Master of Science degree. Graduate work prepares students to use and contribute to research and scholarship in the field of communication. This track requires a thesis based on original research, which must be defended successfully before a committee at the end of the program.

II. Professional track -- The School offers advanced professional study in journalism and mass communication leading to the Master of Science degree. Graduate work prepares students for professional careers in a variety of mass communication fields. Students with limited training or experience in journalism and mass communication may include skills courses in their programs, but the credits for those courses may not count toward the graduate degree. This track requires a creative component which must be defended successfully before a committee at the end of the program.


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Science (M.S.)

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Science communication
  • Political communication and social change
  • Multicultural communication
  • Media industries

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.9 years (Methods)

Gang Han

greenlee-masters-program@iastate.edu
515-294-0482
Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication Graduate Program
119 Hamilton Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1180

Learning Goals

  • To develop an understanding of the central issues and current research important to the field of journalism and communication.
  • To be familiar with the breadth and depth of the journalism and communication profession.
  • To be able to communicate acquired knowledge in the field.
  • To be aware of ethical issues that pertain to the field of journalism and communication.
  • To develop the ability to design and present an independent and meaningful research project.

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Portfolio (recommended
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 570
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 88
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 59
    Duolingo 115

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Rolling examination of applications, but students who wish to be considered for assistantships should submit applications by Feb. 15.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions