The Application

A complete undergraduate application includes all of the following:

  • An SJMC application form. Please read the FAQs below prior to completing the application.
  • A UW–Madison transcript. DARS reports do not qualify—however, campus copies of transcripts are allowed. Transcripts are available at 333 East Campus Mall or can be ordered online at the Registrar’s website.
  • If you are a transfer student, a transcript(s) from your previous college(s).
  • A professional resume highlighting any internships and communications experience as well as unrelated volunteer, student organization or work experience.
  • A one-page personal statement. Must have at least one-inch margins and 12-point type, may be single-spaced.
  • Two pieces of supporting materials—letters of recommendation or writing samples. Together these two items may add up to no more than 10 pages. Letters of recommendation may come from anyone except Journalism 201 TAs.

Applicants who would like the School of Journalism to be aware that they have or had a documented medical condition (such as Attention Deficit Disorder) are welcome to submit documentation from their physicians or the McBurney Disability Resource Center. These documents will not count toward the two-document and ten-page limits mentioned above.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Materials must be submitted in a regular-sized manila file folder (not envelope) by the posted deadline date and time.

Deadline: Friday, May 3, 2013, Noon.

Application FAQs

What if I have questions about the application?

Attend an SJMC Admissions and Information workshop!  Workshops are held in 5055 Vilas Hall on the following dates:

Friday, March 1, 4-5 pm
Thursday, March 21, 5-6 pm
Thursday, April 4, 6-7 pm
Wednesday, April 17, 5-6 pm

When will I be notified of my acceptance or rejection?

The School of Journalism will admit students in January, after fall grades are reported, for spring admission, and in June, after spring grades are reported, for fall admission. You will be notified by mail then. A projected mail date is included on the application.

I am enrolled in J201 now, and I want to apply during this semester—is that alright?

Yes, J201 can be in progress at the time you apply.

If I am not accepted, can I apply again?

Yes, you may reapply as many times as you wish.

If I am admitted, which journalism classes can I take next semester?

All incoming majors are required to take J202 (Mass Communication Practices) in their first semester. If you have junior standing, you also can enroll in theories and topics courses such as J559 (Law of Mass Communication) or J560 (History of Mass Communication).

DOWNLOAD THE Fall 2013 APPLICATION.