Important Dates & Upcoming Events

Online Information Session: January 16, 2025

Virtual Application Workshop: January 15, 2025

Priority Review Deadline: January 21, 2025

Final Application Deadline: March 18, 2025

The next start date: May 5, 2025

Completing your Application

Begin the Online Application
Create a username and password to log in to the online application portal. You may complete the application at your own pace and in any order.
Add your Résumé
Upload your current résumé or curriculum vitae.
Add your Writing Sample
One writing sample is required, but you may submit up to three. Your samples should be representative of your original and unaided professional or academic writing abilities, as writing is a critical component of the program. The writing sample should be polished, substantial, and creative. Examples include: a research paper, business proposal, market analysis, academic essay, published editorial, and creative media scripts. (By uploading your writing sample(s), you attest that you are the author and that you have permission to share the materials with USC.)
Request Two Letters of Recommendation
Apply your recommender’s name and email address to the Evaluations tab of the application. Your recommenders will receive an email invitation to submit their recommendation online. You do not need to wait for your recommenders to complete their evaluations in order to submit your application. Your application will automatically update once letters are received.
Two professional letters of recommendation are required but you may submit three. Academic letters are acceptable for applicants with limited professional experience. Select your recommenders based on their ability to give in-depth insights about the quality of your work. Recommenders should not be peers or subordinates.
Write a Statement of Purpose
Please write a statement of purpose addressing why you want to pursue the Master of Science in Public Relations Innovation, Strategy and Management (MSPRISM) degree at USC Annenberg. Personalize your essay while keeping it simple and concise. Write 1-2 pages addressing the following:
– Why are you choosing to pursue the MSPRISM degree and why is it a good fit for you?
– How will earning the MSPRISM degree help you in your career?
– How will your personal and professional experiences contribute to the MSPRISM program?
Request your Official Transcripts from All Previously Attended Postsecondary Institutions (Undergraduate and Graduate)
Electronic or hard copy transcripts are accepted.

Electronic: Please have electronic transcripts sent to both your email address and etrans@usc.edu. Once you have received the transcripts, upload them to the Academic History section of the application for admissions review purposes.

Hard copy: Please scan and upload your official transcripts directly to the Academic History section of the application portal. Opened, scanned and uploaded transcripts are acceptable for admissions review purposes. Once admitted, you will need to submit electronic transcripts or sealed, official transcripts from your degree-conferring institution to USC.
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