The Master of Arts degree program in Communication Studies is housed in the Department of Communication Studies. The Communication MA is designed to enable students to acquire an understanding of research methods and theories that explore the nature and functions of human symbolic communication in the areas of communication and rhetorical theory, interpersonal and organizational communication, strategic and mass communication, public discourse, intercultural communication, cultural studies, health communication.

The program requires that students select and develop an area of specialization by choosing elective courses, with advisor approval, from either Option.  This enables students to pursue intellectual inquiries that interest them while gaining a broader understanding of the communication process.

Admission Requirements to the Program

In addition to meeting university requirements for admission to graduate study, applicants must submit the following items online as part of the department application package:

• A completed departmental application, 
• Official transcripts of all previous college work, students must have a 3.00 grade point average,
• A copy of the TOEFL score if applicable,
• A writing sample,
• A statement of purpose, and
• A minimum of two letters of recommendation by persons qualified to assess the applicant’s academic work.

Only complete application files with all required supporting materials will be reviewed by the department and assessed for admission. See website for admission deadlines. 

Conditionally Classified Admission

Students whose undergraduate major was not Speech or Communication may be admitted to the degree program in conditionally classified standing. Prior to beginning graduate work, conditionally classified students must achieve a minimum B grade in every course of a conditional study plan of up to 20 units of undergraduate work in Communication and related fields as approved by the graduate advisor for their program. The graduate advisor will assist students in designing a classified study plan suited to their individual interests and goals.