Graduate program
The communication program prepares students to handle the challenges of communicating effectively and ethically in a rapidly changing world.
The M.A. in professional communication provides advanced education for individuals in or pursuing communication related careers in public/nonprofit organizations, media organizations, health care organizations or in higher education. Students take courses that focus on organizational communication theory and practices.
The program is both theoretically and pragmatically oriented to prepare students for the professional workplace or for doctoral study in organizations.
- Graduate student TA opportunities
- Communication graduate student handbook
- Admissions - applications and information
- Graduate School - deadlines and dates
Learn more about what a M.A. in Communication can do for you
Faculty Research Areas
Faculty maintain active research agendas in a variety of communication sub-disciplines, including but not limited to gender, health, organizational, public relations, science, interpersonal, and activism communication.
Graduate Student Research
Graduate students are encouraged to work with faculty mentors to submit their research for publication and conference.
Course Work in Research Methods
Students are given hands on experience in qualitative and quantitative methods.
Curriculum Development
Graduate students on TAships work with faculty mentors to develop curriculum for public speaking and group communication.
Classroom Management
Graduate students on TAships work with faculty mentors to facilitate public speaking and group communication.
Assessment of Student Learning
Graduate students on TAships work with faculty mentors to assess student performance and provide opportunities for improvement.
Internships
Students are encouraged to work internships in the community to get hands-on experience.
Portfolio Development
Classes are designed to ensure practical application of theory.
Leadership
Graduate students are encouraged to take on leadership opportunities through the speaking center and across the university.
Frequently Asked Questions: Graduate Program
In place of a comprehensive exam. MA students will complete a research prospectus with their committee.
No. The GRE is not required for admission. If scores are submitted, they will not be considered when evaluating a student's application.
Students have the option to write a thesis, or complete a project.
Yes, as part of their teaching assistantship appointment, graduate students are required to take our mentored teaching course each semester. In addition, students are required to attend and participate in an orientation prior to the start of the semester.
Yes. Full-time graduate students on a teaching assistantship are required to teach either one or two sections of public speaking or group communication. Although these courses have a standardized curriculum, individual instructors have the flexibility to customize their courses.
No, students have a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds.
Yes, the Master’s program can be completed on either a full-time or part-time basis. The majority of classes are offered during the late afternoon or early evening hours to accommodate those who work during the day.
Resume, , official transcripts (will review with unofficial transcripts), three letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.
Yes. We offer both in-person and completely virtual MA program options. We also provide a fully virtual option for Teaching Assistants.
A MA degree in Communication prepares you to work in a variety of career fields, including marketing, training and development, and public relations. Students earning their MA also have the skills necessary to competitively compete for admission to a doctoral studies program.