Welcome to Your Next Big Step: Applying to the MCM Program
We’re thrilled that you’re considering applying to the Master of Communications Management (MCM) program!
Applications for MCM 19 (starting in October 2025) are now open and close on January 14, 2025, for international applicants and June 30, 2025, for domestic applicants.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about entry to the program, please contact mcmcomms@mcmaster.ca.
How to Apply:
Follow these simple steps to begin your application:
- Click the “Apply Now” button below or click here.
- Select “September” admit term.
- In the search program field, type ‘MCM.’
- Click the “Apply Now” button next to the open date field.
- Create an account to start a new application or log in to continue an existing one.
Flexible Admissions Policy:
If you do not meet the standard admission requirements, we encourage you to consult with our program director, Dr. Terry Flynn, APR, FCPRS. Your professional experience may be assessed to supplement any gaps in your undergraduate degree standing. Send an email to mcmcomms@mcmaster.ca to set up a consultation today.
Admission requirements
All Applicants Require:
A completed Online Application.
Academic and Work Experience
An Honours Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional degree from an accredited university with at least a B+ average and three years of full-time professional experience in public relations or a related field, excluding time spent in internships.
One official transcript of academic work completed to date (including undergraduate and graduate if applicable, degrees and coursework) from each university previously attended.
References
Two confidential letters of recommendation – these can be a combination of academic (previous professors), current supervisors or clients or a professional communicator that can attest to your readiness to be successful in the program.
A personal essay (typed; maximum 500 words) explaining interest and suitability for the program, as well as demonstrated potential for completing the program.
An electronic portfolio of samples of best work, particularly those that illustrate strategic management ability, (e.g. public relations plans; marketing plans; crisis plans) in digital format.
Online Interview
An online personal interview with the Academic Director or Admissions Committee. The purpose of this interview is to ensure that the applicant is fully aware of all aspects of the program and is able to demonstrate the commitment needed for successful completion.
Prospective applicants who do not meet the normal admission requirements should consult the Academic Director to discuss how their work experience might be assessed to make up for insufficient standing in their undergraduate degree.
Current curriculum vitae.
Submission information
Please submit all required information through the online application portal and have other materials sent to:
Communication Studies and Media Arts, MCM Program
Togo Salmon Hall 331
McMaster University
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton ON L8S 4M2
If you have any questions about the application, please contact mcmadmin@mcmaster.ca.
Fees and Expenses
APPLICATION
$110.00 (one-time non-refundable fee).
TUITION
Canadian, $4,348.83 and International, $5,259.24 (or as determined by the Board of Governors) per 3-credit course – cost per term is $8,697.66 and $10,518.48 for two courses. The full cost of the program is payable on a course-by-course basis and 12 courses are required to graduate.
MISCELLANEOUS FEES
$726.17 (Rate varies annually). Please see School of Graduate Studies Calendar, Section 5.
TRAVEL
Varies for each individual. Current program participants come from all over Canada.
MEALS
Health conscious meals are provided during the residency (including breakfast, lunch and coffee breaks). Some meals are provided during social events (usually 2 per residency).
ACCOMMODATIONS
Ranging from $125 – $200 per night plus local taxes (depending on availability).
LOCAL TRANSPORT
$40-45 each way to/from Hamilton International Airport. $80-100 each way to/from Toronto Pearson International Airport.
PARKING
If you have a vehicle for transportation to campus, the campus parking lot on the Sterling Street entrance is at a daily rate of $20.00.
Notes
- Above is the cost you can expect during each residency/semester. All figures are given in Canadian dollars.
- Pricing is subject to change. The above information is intended to be used as a guide.
- The application fee can be paid directly online with your application using VISA or MasterCard.
- Tuition and supplementary fees are paid directly to the Student Accounts & Cashiers in the Financial Services Department (Gilmour Hall – 209).