FAQ

  • How and when do I apply to the LSC graduate program?
    Apply online through the UW Graduate School. We accept applications throughout the year, but meet the application deadlines on our graduate program page to maximize your likelihood of financial support.
  • Who is my first point of contact in the department?
    Beth Johnson, the department receptionist. If you would like to visit, she will set up appointments with faculty for you.
  • What classes count towards my degree?
    Courses at or above the 300 level will count toward your graduate degree, but your committee will expect the majority of your coursework to comprise of classes at the 600 level or above. There is great flexibility regarding the courses you take across campus, but you must work with your advisor every semester to select courses that form a coherent program of study. See the list of courses in the graduate catalog. To determine which classes are offered each semester and to view special topics courses and seminars, see the timetable.
  • Is there a specific course sequence I should follow?
    We encourage most students to take LSC 720 Introduction to Communication Theory and Research during their first semester of study.
  • What is the average credit load students take each semester?
    Typically students take 8-10 credits per semester. The minimum credit load for full-time students is 8 credits/semester and the maximum is 12 credits.
  • How many people are in the program?
    Numbers vary, but typically 50-60 master’s and doctoral students combined.
  • How do I get in contact with my advisor?
    Email or call your advisor. Faculty and staff contact information can be found here.
  • Will I have a faculty advisor?
    Every student admitted to the program is assigned a faculty advisor and you can change your advisor at any time.
  • Where is LSC located?
    1545 Observatory Drive on the West-end of campus (towards Camp Randall)
  • Are scholarships available?
    Yes. LSC is committed to recognizing student excellence.
  • What is the difference between LSC and the journalism school?
    LSC has its own master’s degree in Life Sciences Communication, but collaborates with the Journalism School on a joint Ph.D program. Most students in LSC focus their research on issues related to science communication.
  • What can I do with an LSC degree?
    A Life Sciences Communication degree prepares students for work in academia, but also for professional careers related to communicating health, environmental, agricultural, and biological sciences in an era of rapid technological change and media convergence.
  • Where can I find housing information?
    Visit the Division of University Housing.
  • Does the application process include an interview?
    No, but you are welcome to visit.
  • Is a master’s degree required to get into the Ph.D program?
    Yes. We do require a thesis-based master’s degree
  • Where do I find information about applying for graduation?
    Find out about graduate commencement from the Graduate School’s Procedures.