The mission of the Manship School is to produce highly competent communicators with broad knowledge and training in the liberal arts and the media. The school promotes effective communication, critical thinking and ethical responsibility. Through its teaching, research, and public service, the school is committed to leading the study and practice of media and public affairs. Believing that media should reflect and provide leadership to society, the school seeks diversity in its outlook, student body, faculty and staff.  

Facilities. The Manship School is housed in a newly-renovated building with outstanding computer and technology resources, including on-site computers in classrooms and a $1 million broadcast studio. Our students have access to the latest technology, which makes the Manship School an ideal environment for studying and practicing mass communication in the Information Age.   Faculty. The Manship School prides itself on faculty who are accessible to students. Our faculty have some of the highest student evaluations on campus. Our faculty bring years of experience and national reputations to the classroom and to research projects. They have worked as reporters, editors and producers; served in Congress and the State Department; managed promotional campaigns at The Walt Disney Company; designed advertising and public relations initiatives for companies and agencies; and practiced in law firms. This means more real world examples and experiences for our students.

Diversity. The Manship School is dedicated to creating an educational environment in which diversity is valued and encouraged. In fact, the Manship School is at the forefront of educating both students and professionals on the topic of media diversity. We strongly believe that a diverse school provides broad educational opportunities. 

Scholarships. The Manship School awards more than $100,000 in scholarships annually. Current students may apply for Manship School scholarships through PAWS. Incoming freshmen scholarship applications are part of the LSU admission application (make this a link to the LSU application). Be careful in filling out the leadership, awards and activities section, as these will get close consideration. To improve your chances, place media-related awards and activities first. You must list mass communication as your first intended major to be considered for Manship School scholarships. Dean Kurpius speaks about scholarships.

Counselors. The Manship School has two of the best academic counselors on campus. Students consistently give them high ratings. More importantly, they help you plan effectively to graduate on-time. Counselors are available to meet with high school students and pre-mass comm majors. Schedule an appointment with Helen Taylor or Lyn LeJeune. 

Real-world training. The Manship School's broad-based education provides students with the skills they need to succeed in today's media world. The Manship School counts among its graduates leading journalists, public relations and advertising executives, communications entrepreneurs, and political communicators. Mass Communication is also an excellent major for pre-law students. 

Graduate on time. The Manship School focuses on helping students graduate in 8 semesters. To facilitate this process, the school has helped design and implement CATS, a critical path tracking system for students. This is required for all entering freshmen. If you get off track, a Manship School counselor will work with you to solve the issue. Current students can follow the track online and are ultimately responsible for making sure that they stay on track. Prospective students can look at the tracks to see what courses they would take in the school to complete a degree.

Selective admissions. Admission into the Manship School is selective, which means smaller class sizes and more one-on-one interaction between faculty and students. In order to apply, students must have 30 credit hours with a 3.0 GPA and pass MC 2010 (or MC 2011) with a B or better. Students with a 2.8-3.0 are still encouraged to apply if they have leadership and communication-related experience.

Involvement opportunities. Academic work is only part of your Manship School education. Build your skills and your resume by getting involved in your school. The Office of Student Media is a great place to gain experience and earn a little money. You can also gain valuable leadership experience by joining a student organization.

Student organizations. Students are encouraged to become involved with campus and professional groups. The Manship School boasts a number of professional and media-related organizations. 

Experience outside of the classroom. Our students gain professional experience through internships and service-learning coursework. We also encourage students to participate in study abroad programs. 

Mass Communication Residential College. The Mass Communication Residential College (MCRC) is home to approximately 100 students who will live in One-South Hall and have the opportunity to engage in activities that will strengthen both their educational and professional careers. The program is open to first- and second-year students, and any undergraduate international exchange students enrolled in the Manship School of Mass Communication.

Opportunities for High School Students. The Manship School offers two programs for high school students: the Louisiana Scholastic Press Association and the Louisiana Scholastic Journalism Institute.

Tips for success. Want to succeed at the Manship School? Check out our tips for success.