Graduate Admissions
We take a distinctly quantitative approach, using methods like multivariate statistics, mathematical modeling, computer simulation, experimental research, and survey research. This sets us apart from programs that focus on the art, rhetoric or practice of communication.
🎓 Expert Mentorship
Study with faculty who are internationally acclaimed scholars, researchers and practitioners in communication. Our professors bring real-world experience and cutting-edge research into the classroom—mentoring you to become a leader in media, public relations, health communication, digital strategy and beyond.
🌍 A City on the Rise
Buffalo, NY offers an affordable and vibrant community perfect for communication students. Network with local media outlets, nonprofit organizations, startups and global corporations—all within a dynamic city that values innovation, storytelling and connectivity. Discover the possibilities waiting in the Buffalo Niagara region.
💼 Career Preparation
Our graduates thrive in media, marketing, corporate communication, public advocacy, research and more. Through internships, networking events and hands-on projects, UB equips you with the skills and experience to launch a successful, impactful career.
- Minimum undergrad GPA: 3.0 (4.0 scale)
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution required
- Non-communication majors are encouraged to apply. You may need to take additional background courses.
PhD funding options
Effective fall 2027, academic year stipends of $27,000 and a full tuition waiver for all full-time, funded PhD students on 10-month academic teaching assistant, research assistant, or graduate assistant appointments.
- UB’s stipend levels are competitive among public Association of American Universities (AAU) member institutions.
Additional Fellowship Opportunities:
- Arthur A. Schomburg Fellowship Program: Candidates are required to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must demonstrate how they have overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education. Candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the diversity of the student body by facilitating and enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in their academic programs and campus activities. Even though financial need is not a requirement for program eligibility, applicants may utilize economic disadvantage as a basis for eligibility. This scholarship program is open to any and all prospective candidates regardless of race, color, national origin, or sex, and is consistent with all current governing federal and state nondiscrimination law. All application submissions will be assessed and evaluated in accordance with the required eligibility criteria. Students may apply for the Schomburg Fellowship on the UB graduate application for their program.
- Presidential Fellowships: To be eligible for Presidential Fellowships, candidates must meet the criteria listed on the Presidential Fellowship page. Both domestic and international students are eligible, if they meet these criteria. For any questions regarding funding for academic year 2025–2026, contact the director of graduate studies or department chair.
Step 1: Review the Application Requirements
To apply for our graduate programs, you’ll need:
- Completed online application
- Electronic transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Resume or CV
- One writing sample
Note: PhD applicants must hold a terminal master's degree before applying.
International students should review UB’s International admissions page for IELTS, PTE or TOEFL score requirements before applying.
Non-refundable application fee: $75
After you submit your UB graduate application, you’ll be prompted to make your payment online by credit card or ACH through Nelnet.
U.S. citizens or current permanent residents may request a fee waiver through the application portal after completing the graduate application and uploading all required materials.
Step 2: Start your Graduate Application
Apply using UB’s online application system.
- Create an account
- Choose your program and term
- Follow the instructions for the College of Arts and Sciences
- Returning users: Log in to check your status or update your application
Deadlines
- PhD applicants and financial assistance applicants: December 1
- International applicants (without financial assistance): April 1
- Domestic applicants: August 1
Admissions are for fall semester only. There is no spring or summer entry.
Application Tips
Your personal statement should be 2–3 pages, double-spaced. Please describe:
- Your motivations for pursuing a master’s degree in communication
- Your preparation in terms of academic training and related work or life experiences
- Specific interest areas you would like to pursue if admitted
- Your post-graduation career objectives
Include any additional information that may help the admissions committee.
Your personal statement should be 2–4 pages, double-spaced. Please describe:
- Your motivations for pursuing a doctoral degree in communication
- Your preparation in terms of academic training and work or life experiences
- Why you are interested in the PhD program at the University at Buffalo
- Specific research areas you would like to develop
- Where you see yourself five years from now
Also include any other information that may help the admissions committee (for example, how you might contribute to a diverse, inclusive, and productive community).
Highlight your educational background, additional training, and lived experiences most relevant to the program you are applying for. Include completed degrees, academic mentors, related courses, analytical skills, and research projects.
Choose one article where you are the sole author or the first/lead author on a subject related to communication.
- PhD applicants: Submit a writing sample at the quality of a professional conference paper if not a scholarly journal publication.
- MA applicants: A high-quality term paper is acceptable if no conference submissions are available.
We’re here to help you find the right fit. Contact us!
