Online Application (Most documents below can be uploaded directly through the application site.) GRE Test Score (Institutional Code = 1726 SIUC; Department Code = 4508 Mass Communications) 3 Letters of Reference Curriculum Vitae/Resume Statements: Personal, Biographical, Research (Personal Statement: should cover any previous academic, career, or personal experience that you feel is relevant to your desire to complete a Ph.D. This statement should also relate your end goal, i.e., why do you want to pursue a doctorate? For example, some applicants write about the way that media research is critical to understanding our media-heavy environment. Biographical statement: Please include any background information that you feel is relevant to your application. Research Statement: should provide us with a preliminary overview of the type of research you wish to pursue while studying for the doctorate. Be as specific as possible.) A Writing Sample (Writing Sample: should be your best research paper from your Masters Program.) Transcripts (3.25 minimum GPA; originals must be sent via post) International applicants should have excellent English speaking and writing skills. Those who have not taken significant advanced study in programs taught in English will have to take the TOEFL or IELTS. Minimum scores: TOEFL: IBT - 100, Computer - 250, Paper - 600. IELTS: 7.0 3.0 on all previous graduate level coursework (approximately a "B+" average) (some exceptions apply)