Master of Arts in Communication: Communication Advocacy Concentration (M.A.)

The Master of Arts in Communication is a 33-credit degree program that combines Communication foundation courses with two concentrations: Communication Leadership or Communication Advocacy. Communication Leadership focuses on students’ communication and organizational skills. Communication Advocacy teaches best use of public realtions/communication theories and practices to advocate for others. Both concentrations benefit students’ current and future careers or will prepare students for further study. The degree culminates in a capstone requiring students to demonstrate applied and theoretical communication understanding and acquired skills. The nature of this capstone is designed collaboratively between each student and the student’s advisor.

Program Goals and Learning Outcomes

Goal 1 – Graduates will be able to understand and critique issues and theoretical approaches in the field of communication.

1.1 Demonstrate mastery of historical and current perspectives in the field of communication.

1.2 Critically apply knowledge of communication and media theories.

1.3 Evaluate issues in the field of communication from a theoretically informed perspective.

Goal 2 – Graduates will be able to conduct and interpret communication research.

2.1   Interpret and evaluate critical, rhetorical, qualitative and/or quantitative communication literature

2.2 Utilize critical, rhetorical, qualitative and/or quantitative communication research methods.

Goal 3 – Graduates will be able to demonstrate competencies in oral, written, and visual communication that are essential to success in communication practice.

3.1 Design strategic approaches to a wide range of communication challenges, audiences, and contexts.

3.2 Apply principles of ethical responsibility to their communities, society, disciplines and/or professions.

3.3 Prepare students for academic and professional practice in the areas of communication leadership and/or advocacy.

Graduate Applications

Applications for graduate study should be directed to the Office of Graduate Studies.

Admission Requirements

In addition to general university graduate admission requirements, applicants to the M.A. in Communication program must also submit:

1. Two letters of recommendation from persons who are familiar with the applicant’s academic ability and potential for successful completion of Masters studies.
2. A personal statement of no more than 500-words demonstrating the applicant’s interest and compatibility with the program, understanding of the field, and future career goals.
3. Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores that indicate potential for success in the program (exceptions and waivers may be considered; reach out to graduate program coordinator for details).