| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Media & Mass Communication | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1880
Location: Boston, Massachusetts (with a campus in Los Angeles and study abroad programs in Europe)
Type: Private College
Student Population: Around 5,900+ students (undergraduate & graduate)
Mascot: Griff the Lion
Motto: "Expression Necessary to Evolution"
Emerson is known for its top-ranked programs in:
Film & Media Arts
Journalism & Communication
Creative Writing & Publishing
Theater & Performing Arts
Marketing & Public Relations
Speech-Language Pathology
The Boston campus is located in the vibrant Theatre District near the Boston Common.
Emerson has a Los Angeles campus (Emerson LA), which serves as a hub for students pursuing careers in Hollywood.
It also offers study abroad programs in locations like The Netherlands (Kasteel Well).
Acceptance Rate: Around 33–40% (competitive)
SAT/ACT: Test-optional (but strong scores help)
Application: Common App required
Emerson has many famous alumni in media, entertainment, and journalism, including:
Jay Leno (Comedian & Former Tonight Show Host)
Norman Lear (Legendary TV Producer)
Jennifer Coolidge (Actress – Legally Blonde, White Lotus)
Bobbi Brown (Cosmetics Entrepreneur)
Denis Leary (Actor & Comedian)
Communication Studies
Journalism
Marketing Communication
Political Communication
Public Relations (PR)
Sports Communication
Creative Writing
Media Arts Production (Film, TV, Digital Media)
Theatre (Acting, Directing, Stage Production, etc.)
Comedic Arts (Only dedicated comedy major in the U.S.)
Musical Theatre
Theatre & Performance
Film & Media Arts
Animation & Motion Media
Media Studies
Visual & Media Arts
Speech-Language Pathology
Master’s in Strategic Marketing Communication
Master’s in Journalism
Master’s in Public Relations (PR)
MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, or Writing for Film & TV)
MFA in Film & Media Art
MFA in Theatre (Acting, Directing, or Playwriting)
Master’s in Media Design
Master’s in Film & Television Production
Master’s in Communication Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Communication Studies |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Journalism |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Marketing Communication |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Political Communication |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Public Relations (PR) |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Sports Communication |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Creative Writing |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Media Arts Production |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Theatre (Acting, Directing, Stage Production, etc.) |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Comedic Arts |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Musical Theatre |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Theatre & Performance |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Film & Media Arts |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Animation & Motion Media |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Media Studies |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Visual & Media Arts |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
|
Speech-Language Pathology |
4 Years |
$56,032 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
M.A. in Strategic Marketing Communication |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.A. in Journalism |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.A. in Public Relations (PR) |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.A. in Political Communication |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.A. in Media Design |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.A. in Publishing & Writing |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.F.A. in Creative Writing (Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Writing for Film & TV) |
2–3 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.F.A. in Film & Media Art |
2–3 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.F.A. in Theatre (Acting, Directing, Playwriting) |
2–3 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.A. in Theatre Education & Applied Theatre |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.A. in Business of Creative Enterprises |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.S. in Communication Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology) |
2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.A. in Digital Marketing & Data Analytics |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
|
M.A. in Sports Communication |
1–2 Years |
$34,080 |
Strong academic programs in film, media, journalism, marketing, and performing arts
Prime location in Boston, a major educational and cultural hub
Dedicated support for international students (Visa, housing, career services)
Industry connections in Los Angeles (Emerson LA) and global study programs
Completed application (via Common App for undergraduates or Emerson application for graduates)
Academic transcripts (official high school or college transcripts, translated if necessary)
English proficiency (TOEFL: 95+ iBT, IELTS: 7.0+, Duolingo: 125+)
SAT/ACT (optional but recommended)
Portfolio or audition (for certain programs like film, theater, and creative writing)
Statement of purpose & letters of recommendation
Undergraduate: ~$56,032 per year
Graduate: ~$34,080 per year
Living expenses: ~$20,400 per year
Health insurance: ~$3,000 per year
Emerson offers merit-based scholarships for international students, which can cover partial tuition costs. Need-based financial aid is limited, but external scholarships are encouraged.
International Student Affairs Office (ISAO) for visa guidance and cultural support
Career Services to help with internships and job placements
Housing Assistance for on-campus and off-campus living options
On-campus jobs: Available up to 20 hours per week during semesters
OPT (Optional Practical Training) & CPT (Curricular Practical Training): For post-graduation work experience
Review Emerson’s bachelor’s degree programs in communication, arts, media, and liberal arts.
Some programs (e.g., film, theater, writing) may require a portfolio or audition.
Apply through the Common Application: N/A
Pay the application fee: $65 (non-refundable)
Official High School Transcripts
English Proficiency Test Scores (For International Students)
TOEFL: 95+ iBT
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 125+
Letters of Recommendation (1–3 from teachers or counselors)
Personal Statement / Essay
SAT/ACT Scores (Optional but recommended for international students)
Portfolio/Audition (For creative programs like film, theater, and writing)
Some programs may request an interview (online or in person).
Emerson offers merit-based scholarships (no separate application required).
International students can apply for external scholarships.
Decisions are sent via email and application portals.
Submit a confirmation deposit to secure your spot.
International students will receive an I-20 form to apply for an F-1 student visa.
Review master’s programs in film, media, communication, and creative fields.
Apply through Emerson’s Graduate Portal: www.emerson.edu/apply
Pay the application fee: $75 (non-refundable)
Official Academic Transcripts (Bachelor’s degree required)
Letters of Recommendation (Usually 2-3 from academic/professional references)
Statement of Purpose / Personal Essay
English Proficiency Test Scores (for international students)
Portfolio / Writing Samples / Audition (For MFA or creative programs)
GRE/GMAT Scores (Not required for most programs)
Some programs may require an interview.
Emerson offers graduate assistantships & merit scholarships.
Accepted students receive an admission letter & I-20 form for visa processing.
Intake |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Fall Intake (Main Intake) |
Early Decision I – November 1 |
|
|
Early Action – November 1 |
|
|
Early Decision II – January 15 |
|
|
Regular Decision – February 1 |
|
Spring Intake (Limited Programs) |
November 1 |
|
Transfer Students (Fall/Spring) |
Fall: March 15 / Spring: November 1 |
Intake |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Fall Intake (Main Intake) |
January – March |
|
Spring Intake (Limited Programs) |
October – November |
Academic Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent (minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 preferred)
Strong coursework in English, math, and relevant subjects
Standardized Test Scores (Optional but recommended)
SAT/ACT: Not required but can strengthen an application
Average SAT score (if submitted): 1200-1400
Average ACT score (if submitted): 27-32
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: 95+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 125+
PTE Academic: 68+
Additional Requirements (For Certain Programs)
Portfolio or Audition: Required for creative programs (Film, Theatre, Writing)
Letters of Recommendation: 1-3 required
Personal Statement / Essay: Required
Academic Requirements
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 (higher for some programs)
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: 95+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 125+
Program-Specific Requirements
Portfolio/Writing Sample: Required for MFA and creative programs
Letters of Recommendation: 2-3 required
Statement of Purpose: Required
GRE/GMAT: Not required for most programs
Ranking Organization |
Ranking Position |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked (QS does not rank Emerson) |
|
U.S. News & World Report (National Universities - USA) |
#7 (Best Regional Universities - North) |
|
U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges for Journalism & Communication - USA) |
Top 10 |
|
Hollywood Reporter (Top Film Schools in the U.S.) |
Top 20 |
|
The Princeton Review (Best Colleges for Performing Arts & Film) |
Top 10 |
|
Niche (Best Colleges for Communications in America) |
Top 10 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable to International Students? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Trustee Scholarship |
Outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and extracurricular involvement |
Full Tuition |
Yes |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
High academic achievement, strong application profile |
$10,000 – $25,000 per year |
Yes |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
Strong academic record and extracurricular activities |
$8,000 – $18,000 per year |
Yes |
|
Honor Scholarship |
Excellent academic performance |
$5,000 – $10,000 per year |
Yes |
|
Visual & Media Arts Scholarship |
Exceptional portfolio for film, media, or arts students |
N/A |
Yes |
|
Performing Arts Scholarship |
Outstanding audition for theater and performance programs |
N/A |
Yes |
|
First-Year & Transfer Scholarships |
Merit-based for first-year and transfer students |
N/A |
Yes |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable to International Students? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Graduate Merit Scholarship |
High academic performance & professional achievements |
$5,000 – $15,000 per year |
Yes |
|
Graduate Fellowship & Assistantships |
Teaching or research assistance for faculty |
Partial Tuition or Stipend |
Yes |
|
Communication Disorders Scholarship |
For students in the Speech-Language Pathology program |
N/A |
Yes |
|
MFA Scholarships |
Exceptional creative work in MFA programs (Writing, Film, Theatre) |
N/A |
Yes |
Residence Hall |
Room Type |
Facilities |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Piano Row Residence Hall |
Double, Triple, or Suite |
Fitness center, common areas, laundry, study spaces |
$20,160 – $22,160 |
|
Colonial Building |
Double or Triple |
Lounges, study rooms, shared kitchens |
$19,240 – $21,160 |
|
Little Building |
Single, Double, Triple |
Dining hall, fitness center, common areas |
$19,240 – $21,160 |
|
2 Boylston Place |
Apartment-Style Suites |
Kitchenettes, private bathrooms, lounges |
$22,800 – $24,400 |
|
Paramount Center |
Suite-Style Housing |
Near performing arts spaces, shared bathrooms |
$20,160 – $22,160 |
Note:
Costs vary based on room type (single, double, triple, or suite).
Prices include utilities such as Wi-Fi, electricity, and water.
Housing is mandatory for first-year students.
Type |
Estimated Monthly Rent (USD) |
Facilities |
|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment |
$1,200 – $1,800 |
Private room, shared kitchen/bathroom |
|
Studio Apartment |
$1,800 – $2,500 |
Private space, kitchenette, bathroom |
|
1-Bedroom Apartment |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
Fully private, living room, kitchen |
Note:
Emerson offers off-campus housing assistance to help students find apartments.
Living off-campus is usually cheaper but requires students to manage their own leases and utilities.
Emerson College offers a vibrant and dynamic student life, with a strong focus on creativity, collaboration, and industry engagement. The campus is located in downtown Boston, providing students with access to top media, arts, and entertainment opportunities.
Campus Community & Diversity
Emerson has a diverse and inclusive community with students from all over the world. The college fosters a welcoming environment for international students, LGBTQ+ students, and those from various cultural backgrounds. There are numerous student organizations that promote diversity, activism, and inclusion.
Clubs & Organizations
There are over 90 student-run clubs and organizations at Emerson, covering interests such as film, journalism, theater, gaming, music, and social activism. Some popular clubs include:
Emerson Channel – A student-run television network
Emerson Independent Video (EIV) – A student film production organization
WERS 88.9 FM – One of the top college radio stations in the U.S.
The Berkeley Beacon – The student newspaper
Comedy Troupe & Improv Groups – Popular among students pursuing comedic arts
Arts & Entertainment Scene
Since Emerson is known for its arts and media programs, student life is heavily centered around film screenings, theater productions, live performances, and media showcases. The college’s Paramount Center and Cutler Majestic Theatre host various productions throughout the year, giving students real-world experience in performing arts.
Campus Events & Festivals
Emerson hosts many annual events and festivals, including:
Emerson Film Festival – Showcasing student films and media projects
EVVY Awards – The largest student-run award show in the U.S., recognizing achievements in media and arts
Cultural and Diversity Celebrations – Events highlighting global cultures and student diversity
Sports & Fitness
Although Emerson is not known for athletics, it competes in NCAA Division III sports under the Lions mascot. Popular sports include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and baseball. The college also has a fitness center and recreational activities for students who want to stay active.
Housing & Dining
Most students live on-campus in modern residence halls like the Little Building, 2 Boylston Place, and Piano Row. Dining options include campus cafeterias with meal plans and Boston’s rich food scene right outside the campus.
Internships & Career Opportunities
Being in Boston and having a Los Angeles campus, Emerson provides access to internships in media, film, journalism, marketing, and PR. Many students gain experience at major companies like NBC, Warner Bros., The Boston Globe, and Disney. The Emerson Los Angeles (ELA) program allows students to spend a semester in Hollywood, networking with industry professionals.
Overall Student Experience
Student life at Emerson is energetic, creative, and highly connected to real-world media and entertainment industries. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation, Emerson provides students with the tools they need to succeed in the fields of communication, arts, and media.
Overall Employment Rate: Around 86-90% of Emerson graduates secure jobs or pursue further studies within six months of graduation.
Internship Participation: Over 80% of students complete at least one internship during their studies, with many doing multiple internships.
Top Hiring Industries:
Film & Television
Journalism & Media
Marketing & Public Relations
Theater & Performing Arts
Digital Media & Advertising
Speech-Language Pathology
Emerson graduates work in major media, entertainment, and communication companies, including:
Film & Television: Warner Bros., NBCUniversal, Netflix, Disney, Paramount, CNN
Journalism & Media: The New York Times, The Boston Globe, NPR, ESPN, Bloomberg
Marketing & PR: Edelman, Ogilvy, Havas Media, Weber Shandwick, HubSpot
Theater & Performing Arts: Broadway productions, Cirque du Soleil, Regional Theaters
Tech & Digital Media: Google, Apple, Meta, Amazon Studios, Spotify
Emerson Career Development Center (CDC): Helps students with resume building, job search strategies, networking, and interview preparation.
Emerson Internship Programs: Most students complete internships in Boston, New York, or Los Angeles, gaining hands-on industry experience.
Emerson Los Angeles (ELA) Program: A semester-long internship-based program where students work in Hollywood and major media companies.
Alumni Network: Over 50,000+ alumni working in major creative and media industries, providing mentorship and job referrals.
Field |
Average Salary (USD per year) |
|---|---|
|
Film & Media Production |
$50,000 – $75,000 |
|
Journalism & Broadcasting |
$45,000 – $70,000 |
|
Marketing & Public Relations |
$55,000 – $80,000 |
|
Theater & Performing Arts |
$40,000 – $65,000 |
|
Digital Marketing & Content Creation |
$55,000 – $85,000 |
|
Speech-Language Pathology |
$70,000 – $90,000 |
Hands-on Experience: Emerson focuses on practical learning and real-world industry exposure.
Strong Alumni Network: Graduates often land jobs through connections with Emerson alumni in top companies.
Los Angeles & New York Job Market Access: Many students find opportunities in Hollywood and NYC-based media industries.
Freelancing & Entrepreneurship: Many Emerson graduates work as independent filmmakers, writers, content creators, and marketing consultants.
Emerson College is a moderately competitive institution with an acceptance rate of approximately 33–40%. This means that out of every 100 applicants, about 33 to 40 students are admitted.
The acceptance rate varies based on several factors, including:
Program Competitiveness – Programs in film, theater, and creative writing tend to be more selective.
Application Strength – High GPA, strong essays, recommendation letters, and portfolios improve admission chances.
Test Scores (Optional) – While SAT/ACT scores are not required, strong scores can enhance an application.
High School GPA: 3.6 – 4.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
SAT Score (if submitted): 1200 – 1400
ACT Score (if submitted): 27 – 32
English Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: 95+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 125+
Address: 120 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116, USA
Location Highlights:
Situated in Downtown Boston, near the Theater District and Boston Common.
Close to major media companies, theaters, and cultural hubs.
Easy access to public transportation (subway, buses).
