Master of Arts in Communication

Our MA program is a 30-credit (10 courses) generalist degree designed to enhance students' intellectual and professional growth in communication research and practice. Students can focus exclusively on communication theory and research, or they can choose to also mix in applied skills (primarily in elective courses). Alongside our courses that advance students' professional goals, our MA program highlights civic engagement and using ethical communication to advocate for social justice and transformation. The Communication department is a community of learners, scholars, and teachers who are committed to our shared mission: “cultivating the ability to use communication to create a more equitable and humane world.” The program combines both in-person and online components. We offer some courses online and others in-person, so the program cannot be completed solely online nor can it be completed entirely with in-person only coursework. In general, typically more of the program is online than in-person, but the format of the required courses can vary by semester and it also depends which electives a student selects.

Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.25 or above is preferred but not required. Applications are evaluated as a whole, so students with a lower undergraduate GPA can demonstrate their preparedness for graduate study in Communication in other ways - please see the guidance below in the FAQ section.​ The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required. However, students may submit GRE scores to support their application if desired. Some students may be contacted for a phone interview about their interests and preparation for graduate study in Communication. Two letters of recommendation, preferably from university faculty An official transcript from every college or university attended A resume or curriculum vitae An academic writing sample that demonstrates your ability to make and defend an argument and to use and cite research to support it. Minimum 8 pages double-spaced.