PhD in Communication

Become a Mason Graduate Student

All applicants for graduate study at George Mason University must meet the admission standards specified in the Admission chapter of the University Catalog.

You are responsible for submitting all required application materials by the posted deadline. Review your program's Admissions Requirements and Deadlines before you begin your application. You can also visit our Grad Admissions page for helpful hints on how best to prepare your transcripts and other Admissions materials.

Step 1: Complete and submit the online Graduate Admissions application. George Mason University requires all graduate applicants to upload all possible required supplementary materials, such as unofficial transcripts, goals statement and writing sample, at the same time you submit your application. Online applications require a non-refundable $75 application processing fee.

Step 2: Within a few days of submitting your online application, you will receive an email with your Mason G number (G#). This is a tracking number provided to all applicants that allows us to match your supporting documentation to your completed application.

Step 3: Check your application status and requirements checklist in your application portal. Initial processing takes 3 to 5 business days from the date of submission. You can use your application log-in and password to access your information throughout the application process. Graduate Admissions may send updates or notify you of issues with your application through your admissions portal, so it is best to log in periodically to monitor your application status.

Step 4: For newly admitted students, refer to the CHSS New Graduate Student webpage for tips on confirming enrollment, submitting official transcripts, registering for class and more.

The fall graduate degree seeking application opens September 15.

Program Specific Requirements

College Transcripts Goals Statement GRE Portfolio Recommendation Letters Resume Writing Sample
3

 Additional Information

The writing sample must consist of a research paper, conference paper, or published article and be uploaded online.

The goals statement should include the following information: 

(1) Your professional background and research interests as they relate to the communication field 

(2) Why you think the Ph.D. program in Communication at Mason can help you explore them. Also note, in particular, faculty with whom you wish to work. 

(3) Your future career goals and how a Ph.D. in Communication from Mason can help you achieve these goals. 

The GRE Exam is optional. Applicants who have taken the exam and feel that their scores help strengthen their application are welcome to submit the scores. However, all applicants will receive equal consideration regardless of GRE status based on other elements of the application, including personal statement, recommendation letters, academic transcripts, resume, and writing sample.

Application Deadlines

Fall Deadline: January 15

Applications are accepted for fall semester only. All applicants are strongly advised to submit applications and all supporting documents by the program's posted deadline date.

 

Additional Requirements for