Graduate Programs
Degree Programs
Applied Communication
The Department of Communication Studies offers an M.A. in Applied Communication with concentrations in corporate communication, health communication, media criticism or public communication. This unique applied program provides students with theoretical understanding of communication processes as well as with the competencies and skills necessary to address specific communication issues and problems by applying discipline-specific knowledge. The program readies the advanced student for professional career paths and future academic pursuits.Program Goals
The overarching goal of this unique program in applied communication is to provide students with the competencies and skills necessary to address specific communication issues and problems that are socially relevant and to suggest or implement change. The primary intellectual goal of the program is to increase our students’ understanding of the theoretical implications of discipline-specific knowledge and to enhance their ability to understand and predict human interaction relative to realistic, applied outcomes associated with contemporary social problems. A pratical goal of the program is to train a cohort of the population who will satisfy society’s increased need for professionals who grasp the complexities of communication problems and who are able to develop and execute strategies and programs to address such issues.Requirements for Admission
Applicants should have:
- a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
- official transcripts from all Universities and Colleges attended
- three letters of recommendation
- a personal statement
In addition, evidence of strong analytical and writing skills, a background in research methods, and experience in the analysis of communication phenomena are highly recommended. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test with satisfactory scores in the three areas is required for applicants who wish to be considered for University fellowships.
Course Work
The student must maintain a B+ average (3.3) or higher in order to graduate. In addition, the student must pass the comprehensive examination and complete either a thesis or an applied learning project in order to complete the degree requirements.
Degree Requirements
Completion of 36 credit hours, including:
- 12 credit hours of core requirements. These include:
- COMM C500 Advanced Communication Theory
- COMM C501 Applied Communication Research
- One of COMM C502, COMM C530 or COMMC531
- COMM C503 Applied Learning Project, OR COMM C597 Thesis)
- 18 credits of applied communication elective courses
- Students may take as many as 6 credits of approved interdisciplinary course work at the graduate level from outside of the Communication Studies Department;
- Successful completion of comprehensive examinations.