Master of Arts in Communication (M.A.)

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 in the context of social change and leadership.

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

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

2.3 Conduct applied research that involves the strategic application of communication theories in practice.

Goal 3 – Graduates will be able to demonstrate communication competencies that are essential to successful communication practice in the context of social change and leadership.

3.1 Design media and messaging campaigns to address specific challenges, audiences, and contexts.

3.2 Formulate planned communication strategies, approaches, methods, and tactics to foment, impact, or lead through social change.

3.3 Engage with their communities, society, disciplines, and/or professions in critically informed and ethically responsible ways.

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. A sample of scholarly or professional writing
4. (Optional) Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores that indicate potential for success in the program.
5. Students interested in applying for graduate assistantships should additionally include a resume or CV with their application.

Degree Requirements (33 Credit Hours)

Graduate degrees in the Edwards College of Humanities and Fine Arts require students to maintain a minimum overall average of B (3.0) for all courses taken. If at any time students fail to satisfy this requirement, then they are placed on probation for one semester. Failure by students in the probationary semester and in all subsequent semesters to earn a 3.0 GPA or until their cumulative GPA rises above a 3.0 will result in dismissal from the program. Only courses for which the student receives a grade of B or better will count towards the Master of Arts in Communication degree. A maximum of two classes completed below the grade of B will result in a mandatory meeting with the student’s advisor and/or program coordinator, which may result in dismissal from the program. During a probationary semester, receiving a failing grade (D or F) in a required course or an F in any course will result in dismissal from the program regardless of students’ overall GPA.

Total Credit Hours: 33