Apply to Distance Education Program

In our Distance Education program, you set the timeline for completing your degree, obtaining a certificate, or brushing up on your skills through a single course. You can take one, two, or three classes per semester, pursue coursework completely online or by Zooming into F2F classrooms, or develop your degree through guided studies with faculty—you choose how to make the program fit your schedule and life. This program is well-suited for currently employed professionals and eligible individuals who wish to reskill/upskill for today's job market.

Apply Today

Steps for Application

Please indicate that you are applying for degree status and what semester/year you plan to begin attendance. Applications are accepted year-round.

Official TOEFL score of (100), IELTS score of (7.0), or Duolingo score of (120) to be considered for full admission.

Official Transcript

An official transcript of undergraduate work and any previous graduate work. An unofficial transcript is acceptable for initial application, but an official transcript MUST be received before the first day of class.

Applicants must have 3.0 GPA or above cumulative GPA or a 3.5 major GPA to be considered for full enrollment.

Professional or Academic Writing Sample

A writing sample is typically 10-30 pages, and should demonstrate the highest attention to detail and rigor. Writing samples can include an undergraduate research report, honors thesis, argumentative/analytic essay, journalistic/newspaper articles, or organizational report. Multiple documents can be uploaded to reach the 10-page minimum after consultation with the graduate program director.

Statement of Purpose for Graduate Studies

The statement should be 2-4 pages, typed, double-spaced, and follow the highest attention to detail and rigor. The following points should be addressed in the essay:
- Explain your reasons for pursuing a graduate degree from the UNI Department of Communication and Media.
- Describe the areas of our department that interest you, and which faculty would be best suited to your concentration.
- Describe your professional goals, and how a degree from the our program will help you actualize these ambitions.

Letters of Recommendation

Three recommendation letters. Preferably these should be from previous instructors, academic advisors, or others who can attest to your ability to complete a high-level academic program. The forms are found in the application portal.

Additional Information

Once admitted, arrange for a meeting with the Graduate Program Coordinator, C. Kyle Rudick, to register for courses. The coordinator will assist in planning your graduate program. This meeting must occur prior to initial registration. Only course work approved by the Graduate Program Coordinator will be counted toward degree credit.
Application to graduate school is a large investment in your professional and personal growth. In recognizing this, we invite potential applicants to request a campus visit to meet current graduate students and faculty. The responsibility of ensuring that applications are complete rests with the applicant. Please contact the Graduate Program Director, C. Kyle Rudick, if you have any questions or would like to set up a campus visit.

Learn more about the Distance Education Program

Fill out your information here to receive communication about this program.

Department of Communication and Media
326 Lang Hall, Cedar Falls
Iowa 50614-0139

phone: (319) 273-2217
fax: (319) 273-7356
email: cm-office@uni.edu

Dynamic Major

Prospective Student Type

First Name

Last Name

Email Address

MSW Program:

Counseling Program:

English Program:

Technology Program:

Psychology Program:

School Psychology Program:

Certificate options:

Diploma options:

Performance Program:

I want to start at UNI in (Fall and Spring semesters):

I want to start at UNI in (Fall and Spring - 2024 unavailable):

I want to start at UNI in (Only Fall semesters):

I want to start at UNI in (Only Fall semesters - 2024 unavailable):

I want to start at UNI in (Only Spring semesters):

I want to start at UNI in (Only Summer terms):

I want to start at UNI in (2024 unavailable - Only Summer terms):

Vocal Interest

Primary Instrument

Secondary Instrument

Attendance Type

On-CampusOnline/Distance Education

Contact Information

rudick

Do you have questions?

Ask our Graduate Program Coordinator, Kyle Rudick!

kyle.rudick@uni.edu
(319) 273-2525
358 Lang Hall