Communication Studies - Master of Arts
The department offers both thesis and non-thesis options in its Masters of Arts program. Both options require a minimum of 36 credits, which includes not only Communication courses but courses from outside the department. The thesis option requires at least 30 credits of coursework, 6 credits of thesis (COMM 599 Master's Thesis), and an oral defense of the thesis and coursework. The non-thesis option requires 36 credits of coursework, plus a comprehensive written examination, followed by an oral defense. The project option requires 6 credits of a project. All options require a minimum of 30 credit hours of Communication courses.
Select 15 credits from Communication Studies Electives for the Thesis Option. Take 15 credits plus 6 credits from related disciplines for the Non-Thesis Option. Two courses (6 credits) for courses that have numbers 450+ can be counted. For either the Thesis or the Non-Thesis option, a total of 36 credits is required.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Requirements | ||
| COMM 505 | Research Methods | 3 |
| or COMM 506 | Qualitative Research Methods in Communication | |
| COMM 583 | Seminar in Theories of Communication | 3 |
| Select three from the following: | 9 | |
| Seminar in Political communication | 3 | |
| Seminar in Organizational Communication | 3 | |
| Seminar on Communication and Culture | 3 | |
| Seminar in Interpersonal Communication | 3 | |
| COMM Electives | ||
| Select 15 credits from Electives in Related Fields, 3-6 credits from (graduate levels; numbered 450+). | 15 | |
| Thesis, Non-Thesis or Project Options | ||
| Select one from the following: | 3-6 | |
Thesis Option: Select 6 credits from COMM 599. | ||
Non-thesis Option: Select 3-6 credits from Additional Graduate COMM Electives. | ||
Project Option: Select 6 credits from COMM 590 | ||
| Total Credits | 33-36 | |
A GPA of 3.0 or better must be maintained overall and grades in each course must be a B- or better.
Entrance Requirements for Graduate Study in Communication Studies
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General Test is not required for admission; however, high GRE scores will strengthen a candidate's application and are highly regarded in the awarding of Graduate Assistantships. Students wishing to enroll in the Master program in Communication Studies must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a BA or BS degree, from an accredited institution of higher learning; Social Science disciplines are preferred
- Hold a minimum grade point average of 3.00
To apply for an graduate study in our department, please submit the following application materials:
- Three very positive letters of recommendation
- Current Vitae/Resume
- 750 word statement of intent
- A sample of scholarly writing
If you seek to have a graduate teaching assistantship, please indicate so with your application letter. Such positions are competitive.