Communication Studies

COMMUNICATION STUDIES (M.A.) is a program designed to provide students with a rigorous educational experience, to develop an advanced understanding of the human communication process, to increase awareness of the interdisciplinary nature of the communication field, and to develop oral, written, critical thinking, and research skills. The 30 credit hour thesis track program emphasizes the student’s development of research skills. The 36 credit hour non-thesis track program focuses on a theoretical foundation with emphasis on applied communication. Students have the option to concentrate in Communication Studies, Health Communication, Intercultural Communication, or Organizational Communication.

Two programs are offered in Communication Studies.

• The thesis program emphasizes the student’s development of research skills under faculty supervision (30 credit hours).
• The non-thesis program focuses on a theoretical foundation with emphasis on applied communication (36 credit hours).

Students will be prepared for leadership positions in public or private organizations at the national or international level, or pursue advanced degrees.

Thesis students must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours at the graduate level with the approval of a faculty advisor or department chair. Of the 30 credit hours, 15 credit hours must be at or above the 600-level. Non-thesis students must complete a minimum of 36 credit hours at the graduate level with the approval of a faculty advisor or department chair. Of the 36 credit hours, 18 credit hours must be at or above the 600-level. Communication Studies students must maintain an overall minimum GPA of 3.0 for all courses. Core courses must be completed during the first year of study, or by completion of 18 credit hours. No more than 6 credit hours will be allowed for advanced projects and directed research. Only one intersession course (3 credit hours) can be counted towards the degree. Electives credits must be chosen with prior approval of a Communication Studies advisor.

Thesis Program

Non-Thesis Program

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
• The School’s official application
• A $65.00 non-refundable application fee
• Three letters of recommendation
• 500 word typed statement of academic and professional goals.
  • Note: for the Interactive Media M.F.A., please visit this web site for specific instructions about the statement
• Official transcripts of all college work, both undergraduate and graduate
  • Note: In addition, international applicants must send an official copy of their diploma for all degrees earned, and all documentation that confers your degree, with English translation for all degrees earned.
  • Note: All transcripts must be the original document, forwarded directly from the university; Xerox copies, true copies, notarized copies and other types of copies are not acceptable.
• Official TOEFL or IELTS scores
  • Note: Only for international applicants
• Copy of current passport
  • Note: Only for international applicants. The name entered on the graduate application must exactly match your name as it appears on your passport.
• Official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
  • Note: Required for M.A. applicants in Communication Studies and Public Relations. 
  • Note: Journalism M.A. and Interactive Media M.F.A. applicants may send GRE scores or a portfolio
  • Note: Not required for Motion Pictures M.F.A. applicants
• Portfolio
  • Note: Required for Motion Pictures M.F.A. applicants
  • Note: Interactive Media M.F.A. applicants may send a portfolio or GRE scores

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• UM Fellowships
• GAFAC Funding