Communication

• Online application: https://www.graddiv.ucsb.edu/eapp
• Statement of Purpose (see detailed instructions below), Personal History and Diversity Statement, and Resume or CV (Submitted in the online application)
• Three Letters of Recommendation (Requested/managed in the online application)
• Writing sample (Submitted in the online application)
• Unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended (Submitted online)
• English Language Exam Scores (if applicable): TOEFL Internet-Based Test (IBT) total score of 80, or IELTS Overall Band score of 7, or Duolingo English Test total score of 120, or higher
• Final/Official transcripts will be required for all applicants who are admitted and have indicated their intent to enroll at UC Santa Barbara by submitting a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR). UC Santa Barbara reserves the right to require official transcripts at any time during the admissions process, and rescind any offer of admission made if discrepancies between uploaded and official transcript(s) are found.

Detailed Instructions for Statement of Purpose: 

Your statement of purpose should be 2-3 pages, double-spaced, with 12-point font size. It should include three section headings as indicated below. Please include your name in the header/footer of each page.

1. Research Interest
   What communicative phenomena, social problems, or theoretical questions do you want to research? Outline a clear and compelling research interest that is motivating you to pursue a doctorate in communication. Tell us why these questions are exciting, important, or meaningful to you. Where possible be specific about how your questions connect with past research and theory in the field. What methodologies would you like to use to answer these questions?
2. Research Experience and Preparedness
   How have you prepared yourself to be successful in our program? Summarize past education and experiences that will enable you to successfully participate in coursework, teaching, and research in our department. Highlight any specific training or accomplishments related to research that you feel are relevant. Include any additional information that may assist the selection committee in evaluating your preparation and aptitude for graduate study at UC Santa Barbara.
3. Connection to our Program and Faculty
   Why is our program a good fit for you and your goals? Outline how your research interests and experiences can be well-supported by our program and faculty. Specifically, explain how social science training in one or more of our core research areas (Interpersonal & Intergroup Communication, Media & Digital Communication, or Organizational & Group Communication) will help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
   
   Identify specific faculty you would like to work with and describe how their expertise/research is relevant to your interests. Please bold faculty names in your statement.