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Northwestern MSC Program Admission Materials

Your application should tell your story and highlight your strengths

MSC Program Requirements & Materials

What You Need To Apply

No two Northwestern MSC students are the same, and the application and admissions process is designed to address these differences.

Resume

Outline your professional experiences, skills and education history. Include any certificates, responsibilities or volunteer work you believe is relevant.

Academic Transcripts

You may upload unofficial transcripts for the purposes of admissions. You will need to provide official transcripts later on to enroll in the MSC Program.

Two References

Submit the names and contact details of two individuals who will recommend you to the program, and the MSC will contact them with a form to complete.

One Essay

Tell the Admissions Committee why you’re applying to the Northwestern MSC and the contribution you will make to the rest of your cohort.

Admissions Interview

Interview in-person or virtually with a member of the Admissions Committee after submitting your application.

GRE/GMAT

We’ve found that standardized test scores are not necessarily a predictor of success in the MSC program — which is why we do not require GRE or GMAT scores.

MSC Program

Get on the Fast-Track to Career Advancement

In less than a year, you’ll earn your Masters from an elite institution and gain new skills to transform yourself and the organizations you serve.

No GREs or GMATs

Test scores do not tell the whole story. The MSC does not require GREs or GMATS — so you can apply right away.

Rolling Admissions

Apply anytime. The MSC accepts applications across four deadlines throughout the year.

1 Year Flexible Program

Get your Masters degree in under a year with our accelerated MS in Communication degree program.

Featured Webinar

Northwestern MSC Application Tips

Listen in as the MSC admissions team unpacks the MSC application materials and process.

Play Video

Staff discuss the MSC application.

Northwestern MSC Application Deadlines

Apply when you're ready

Northwestern’s MSC program is competitive and space in the MSC cohort may fill up. Apply today for early consideration.

Fall 2025 Deadlines

 

December 15, 2024

March 1, 2025

May 15, 2025

Northwestern University's MSC Program Graduation at the Alice Millar Chapel on Friday, August 11th, 2017. Photos by Jasmin Shah.

Earn Your Masters From Northwestern University

Make your next year transformative. Start your application today.

Northwestern MSC Program Events

Connect with the Northwestern MSC Admissions team at our next event or explore webinars on-demand to learn more about applying for your MS in Communication.

Stephanie Santos

“The Admissions team was incredibly welcoming and gave me a chance to express why the program enticed me.”

Stephanie Santos

Class of 2019

Play Video

Toby Cortelyou and alumni Naazish YarKhan discuss the application essay.

Featured webinar

How to Craft Your Application Essay

Your essay is a critical component of your overall application.

The Essay Prompt:

Why are you applying specifically to the MSC Program at Northwestern University and what unique value do you hope to add to the MSC experience of your classmates? You also have the opportunity to write an additional essay that includes information you feel may not be adequately addressed through the other application materials.
MSC Application Interview

What to Expect During the Admissions Interview

Relax and converse with a member of the MSC Admissions Committee and tell us about yourself — your story, experiences and philosophies.

The Admissions Interview is meant to help us delve into who you are and why you’re applying to the program. At the same time, it’s a chance for you to get to know us and ask any questions you have.

Earn Your MS in Communication From Northwestern

Take the next step in your career. Earn your Masters to open new doors.