How to Apply
Autumn 2024 applications are now open. Please watch or attend an Admissions Event before beginning your application.
If you have questions about the application process, please contact us.
Once submitted, applications cannot be edited. Applications typically open in November, but we recommend taking the full allowed time to submit your application so that your materials are as current and accurate as possible.
| APPLICATION DEADLINE | DECISION BY | ELIGIBILITY | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round 1 (priority consideration) | Feb 1, 11:59 pm | April 1 | All applicants |
| Round 2 (limited spots) | April 1, 11:59 pm | May 1 | All applicants |
| Round 3 (dependent on space) | July 1, 11:59pm | Aug 1 | Domestic applicants only |
Application Steps
- Determine your eligibility for admission to a UW graduate program on the UW Graduate School website
- Previous professional experience is welcome but is not required. The program has classes and opportunities for students with and without work experience.
- Communication Leadership does not require GRE or GMAT scores from applicants. Please do not have GRE or GMAT scores sent as they will not be considered.
- Decide which degree you wish to pursue – the MCDM, MCCN or MCCL. You may only apply to one degree – do not submit multiple applications!
- Create your applicant profile with the UW Graduate School.
- Begin your application – be sure to select Graduate as the application type and select Communication Leadership Program (Master of Communication). You will indicate which of our three degree tracks you wish to pursue within the application.
- Designate your recommenders within the application and order official test scores (if necessary) a minimum of two weeks prior to the application deadline.
- If applying for an application fee waiver, submit your completed application a minimum of 7 business days before the application deadline.
- Complete all required portions of the application and submit by 11:59pm PT on the deadline.
Application Checklist
The full admissions application is online on the Graduate School website. When you complete it, you will be required to upload the following:
Unofficial transcripts of previous college or university work
Names and emails of 2-3 academic or professional references who can provide your recommendations electronically
Current resume or CV
Written personal statement: In one page, single spaced, of 600 words or fewer (in total for both questions):
- Tell us why you chose to apply to the Communication Leadership program. How will this program in particular contribute to your professional growth and goals? Be as specific as possible, and feel free to mention classes, instructors, opportunities, etc.
- Which of your previous experiences have prepared you for success in the Communication Leadership master’s program, and how? You can talk about your education, activities, work, life experiences, passions, and/or your engagement with different communities. Our goal is to admit a well-rounded cohort that supports each other’s education, so your unique experiences and interests are as valuable to us as your academic and professional achievements.
In a video of 90 seconds or less, please respond to the following prompt:
- The Communication Leadership community is centered around a shared set of values, which you can review at this link: https://cldev.commlead.uw.edu/about/. Share a story or reflection from your life or experience about one of these values that particularly resonates with you, and explain how that relates to your desire to join this program.
- Think of this as answering an interview question via Zoom, not producing an edited video. We are not evaluating production quality at all, we just need to be able to hear and see you clearly.
Non-native English speakers: Evidence of proficiency in English. For guaranteed consideration, applicants must meet the ELP Satisfied recommended scores listed in Policy 3.2.1 if using test scores to meet this requirement.
Only complete applications will be considered. Applications that are missing any required elements by the deadline will be considered incomplete and will be denied. It is your responsibility to ensure that all required materials are submitted successfully. You can monitor completion on your Application Status page.
Please designate recommenders within the online application and request English proficiency test scores (if required) a minimum of two weeks before the application deadline, to ensure they arrive in time. The application due dates are completion deadlines.
All denials from all rounds are final. Students that are placed on an official waitlist will be notified by email about their status and next steps.
Please do not submit any materials directly to the Department of Communication or the Graduate School. Only materials submitted through the online application will be accepted and reviewed. Please follow the instructions on Graduate School Policy 3.2 to report official English proficiency test scores
The University of Washington’s acclaimed communication graduate programs provide an excellent opportunity for students to advance their knowledge and expertise in the ever-evolving field. From sharpening digital media skills, to mastering strategic writing techniques, to diversity studies, among many other skills, these programs will help you advance or start your career.
Taking a Course without Applying
If you’re not seeking a degree now, but might want to later, you may be able to take up to 10 credits under the “graduate non-matriculated” status. Under this status you are still required to meet the Graduate School’s minimum eligibility requirements.
Competitive graduate non-matriculated students will be admitted on a space-available basis. Applications are submitted via the Graduate School website, and are due one month prior to the quarter’s start date.
University of Washington
Department of Communication