At a glance
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Duration
8.0
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
Purdue University offers a comprehensive graduate program in Communication, encompassing Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Arts (MA) degrees with on-campus attendance. Additionally, online Master of Science (MS) degrees and several graduate certificates in specialized areas of communication are available. The program is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in various facets of communication theory and practice.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Communication program?
- For doctoral programs, a Master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 is required. You must also provide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- What English proficiency scores are needed for international applicants?
- For on-campus MA/PhD programs, residential programs require a minimum TOEFL score of 12 on the Speaking section and 9 on all other sections. For the Online MS, a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall is accepted, or a Duolingo score of 120. Specific TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic scores are also listed on the program page.
- How do I apply for the PhD in Communication program?
- You must apply through Purdue University's central Graduate School. The application requires transcripts, three recommendation letters, an Academic Statement of Purpose, a Personal History Statement, a resume, and a writing sample.
- What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Communication?
- The application review begins October 15, with a final deadline of December 1 for Fall Admission for on-campus programs.
- Are there any funding opportunities available for PhD students?
- PhD students are automatically considered for Graduate Assistantships (Teaching/Research), which vary in amount. These are competitively selected, and you should check specific oral English requirements for Teaching Assistant positions.
- Where can I find information about tuition and living costs?
- Tuition rates for graduate programs vary and are detailed on the Bursar's Office website for the 2025-2026 academic year. Estimated living costs are not provided, and students should consult university resources for estimates in West Lafayette, Indiana.
Entry requirements
Master's Degree/CertificateMinimum cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 from most recently conferred undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.
Doctoral DegreeMinimum cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 from most recently conferred undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree. For international applicants, a Master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 is also required.
TOEFL iBT (before Jan 21, 2026)80 overall (Reading: 19, Listening: 14, Speaking: 27, Writing: 18)
TOEFL iBT (on or after Jan 21, 2026)4 overall (Reading: 4, Listening: 3.5, Speaking: 5.5, Writing: 4)
TOEFL Essentials9.5 overall (Reading: 9, Listening: 9, Speaking: 12, Writing: 9)
IELTS Academic8.0 overall (Reading: 6.5, Listening: 6, Speaking: 8, Writing: 5.5)
IELTS Academic (Online MS)6.5 overall
Specific section requirements for TOEFL and IELTS may vary slightly between residential and online programs. For the Online MS, a minimum Duolingo score of 120 is also accepted. Residential MA/PhD programs require a minimum of 12 on the Speaking section of TOEFL and 9 on all other sections.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition rates for graduate programs vary. Please refer to the official Purdue University Rates and Fees for the 2025-2026 academic year for detailed information. Specific links for graduate tuition and fees are provided on the Bursar's Office website.
Tuition (home)Tuition rates for graduate programs vary. Please refer to the official Purdue University Rates and Fees for the 2025-2026 academic year for detailed information. Specific links for graduate tuition and fees are provided on the Bursar's Office website.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program pages. Prospective students should consult university resources for cost of living estimates in West Lafayette, Indiana.
Purdue University offers various online program rates. Please check the Purdue University Online Rates section on the Bursar's Office website for specific details.
How to apply
1. Submit TranscriptsProvide official transcripts from all previously attended undergraduate, graduate, and professional institutions. Translations may be required for documents not in English.
2. Obtain Recommendation LettersThree recommendation letters are required for PhD and MA programs. Two recommendation letters are required for online MS programs and graduate certificate programs.
3. Write StatementsSubmit an Academic Statement of Purpose and a Personal History Statement.
4. Provide ResumeA current resume or curriculum vitae is required.
5. Submit Writing SampleA writing sample is required for on-campus (residential) programs only.
6. Meet English Proficiency RequirementsAchieve the minimum required scores on an accepted English proficiency test (TOEFL or IELTS).
7. Complete Application FormFill out and submit the online application through the Purdue Graduate School system.
Scholarships
Graduate Assistantships (Teaching/Research)Varies
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Communication program?
+
For doctoral programs, a Master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 is required. You must also provide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
What English proficiency scores are needed for international applicants?
+
For on-campus MA/PhD programs, residential programs require a minimum TOEFL score of 12 on the Speaking section and 9 on all other sections. For the Online MS, a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall is accepted, or a Duolingo score of 120. Specific TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic scores are also listed on the program page.
How do I apply for the PhD in Communication program?
+
You must apply through Purdue University's central Graduate School. The application requires transcripts, three recommendation letters, an Academic Statement of Purpose, a Personal History Statement, a resume, and a writing sample.
What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Communication?
+
The application review begins October 15, with a final deadline of December 1 for Fall Admission for on-campus programs.
Are there any funding opportunities available for PhD students?
+
PhD students are automatically considered for Graduate Assistantships (Teaching/Research), which vary in amount. These are competitively selected, and you should check specific oral English requirements for Teaching Assistant positions.
Where can I find information about tuition and living costs?
+
Tuition rates for graduate programs vary and are detailed on the Bursar's Office website for the 2025-2026 academic year. Estimated living costs are not provided, and students should consult university resources for estimates in West Lafayette, Indiana.