Masters Degrees in Communication & Media Studies, USA

Program Areas

Students in this graduate program have a core set of requirements in theory and method courses, which provide foundations in three research areas: Communication and Culture, Organizational and Interpersonal Communication, and Rhetoric and Political Discourse. In addition, students complete their plans of study, with elective courses from among any graduate courses in the department (see link below) or outside of the department, with the approval of their academic advisors.

Visit the website https://comstudies.ua.edu/graduate-program/

COMMUNICATION STUDIES (COM)

COM 500 Introduction to Graduate Studies. One hour.
The primary goal is to orient new graduate students to the expectations and procedures of graduate study in the department. Topics covered include developing the plan of study, thesis prospectus, comprehensive examination, and choosing advisors and committees.

COM 501 Introduction to Teaching Public Speaking. No hours.
The primary goal of this course is to facilitate the instruction of COM 123 Public Speaking. Students enrolled in this course will provide lesson plans for their classes and discuss options for improving classroom learning.

COM 513 Communication and Diversity. Three hours.
Study and analysis of issues of diversity as they relate to groups in society and in communication fields. Emphasis is on the media's treatment of various groups in society. Approved as a communication and cultural diversity elective.

COM 515 African American Rhetoric. Three hours.
A historical-critical investigation of African American public discourse from the Revolutionary era to the present, exploring rhetorical strategies for social change and building community.

COM 521 Political Communication. Three hours.
An exploration of rhetorical, media, and cross-disciplinary theories and literature related to political communication as expressed in campaigns and institutional governance.

COM 525 Gender and Political Communication. Three hours.
Study of the impact of gender on political communication activities. Topics include gender differences in political messages and voter orientation, masculine ideals of leadership, women’s roles and advancement in the political sphere, and media representations.

COM 536 Independent Study. Three hours.
Prerequisite: Written permission.
Students who want to count this course toward their Plans of Study must complete the official request form and submit it for the approval of their faculty advisor and the Graduate Program Director.

COM 541 Contemporary Rhetorical Theory. Three hours.
A survey of major contributions to rhetorical theory from the 20th century up to the present.

COM 545 Classical Rhetorical Theory. Three hours.
A systematic inquiry into the development of Greek and Roman rhetorical theory during the classical period (ca. 480 B.C.E.–400 C.E.).

COM 548 Seminar in Rhetorical Criticism. Three hours.
An examination of various methodological perspectives of rhetorical criticism. Specifically, the course aims to familiarize students with both traditional and alternative critical methods and to encourage students to perceive the rhetorical dimensions of all manner of public discourse, ranging from speeches, advertising, film, popular music to discursive forms in new media and the Internet.

COM 560 Group Leadership. Three hours.
An advanced study of small-group behavior, examining in detail theories of leadership as they relate to problem solving in group situations.

COM 550 Qualitative Research Methods. Three hours.
An introduction to qualitative research methods in communication, including data collection and analysis. The goals of the course are to provide exposure to a broad array of qualitative methods, help students learn to use some of these methods, and to help them to understand the role of research in our field. The course is designed to help student actually conduct research, resulting in two conference-worthy papers.

COM 555 Conflict and Negotiation. Three hours.
Negotiation is fundamentally a communicative activity. The main objective of this course is to understand processes of formal conflict management in mixed motive settings. Students will apply negotiation theory and skills to simulated negotiation cases that include buyer-seller transactions, negotiating through an agent or mediator, salary negotiations, deal making, resolution of workplace disputes, multiparty negotiations, international and intercultural negotiations, and ethical decision making and communication in negotiation. The skills and theory introduced in this course will help students manage integrative and distributive aspects of the negotiation process to achieve individual and collective goals.

COM 561 Human Communication Theory. Three hours.
A detailed review of selected theories of speech communication with a focus on the critical examination of the foundation of social scientific theories.

COM 562 Theories of Persuasion. Three hours.
A critical review of social-influence theories in the area of persuasion and human action.

COM 563 Relational Communication. Three hours.
Prerequisite: COM 220 or permission of the instructor.
Focused investigation of to communication in close personal relationships, with primary emphasis on contemporary concepts and theories of romantic relationships and friendships.

COM 565 Intercultural Communication. Three hours.
Survey and analysis of major concepts, theories, and research dealing with communication between people of different cultural backgrounds in multicultural and international settings.

COM 567 Seminar: Public Address. Three hours.
A topical consideration of individual case studies from public discourse, designed to probe problems of the nature of the audience, the ethics of persuasion, and the power of public advocacy in mass society. Topics may vary.

COM 569 Communication and Gender. Three hours.
Explores the role of communication in the construction of gender. Covers feminist theoretical approaches in communication and other disciplines, the intersections of gender with other marginalities, and the role of gender in various communication contexts. Approved as a communication and cultural diversity elective.

COM 571 Seminar in Organizational Communication. Three hours.
An introductory examination of historical and contemporary issues in organizational communication scholarship from a variety of theoretical and methodological perspectives.

COM 572 Organizational Assessment and Intervention. Three hours.
Examines the theoretical issues inherent in the study of organizational communication, the primary factors requiring assessment and intervention, the impact of on-going changes and new information techniques, current challenges facing the organizational consultant, and the practical application of communication processes for improving organizations.

COM 575 Technology, Culture, and Human Communication. Three hours.
Study of the complexity of technologically-mediated communication across cultures. This course combines literature and concepts from intercultural communication with human communication and technology and addresses the challenges of interacting with others via technology, working in global virtual teams and organizations, and participating as a citizen and consumer in the technology age.

COM 590 Internship in Communication Studies. One to three hours.
Prerequisite: Written permission from the graduate program director.
Proposal for supervised field experience in communication studies must be submitted and approved.

COM 595 Special Topics. Three hours. Topics vary by instructor.

COM 598 Professional Project. Three hours.

COM 599 Thesis Research. One to three hours.

Career Options

A Master of Arts degree in Communication Studies can offer many career options. Communication skills — oral, written, electronic — are now recognized as critical aspects in all major professions in the United States. Both in education and in the work force, there is a growing need for those who not only understand how human communication functions in its various forms, but also can analyze and advise others on ways to improve human communication. Graduates typically pursue one of three career paths: teaching public speaking, working in professional communication positions, or continuing with advanced academic study, such as in doctoral or law degree programs.

Find out how to apply here - https://comstudies.ua.edu/graduate-program/admissions/

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The master of science degree in media arts and technology is a one-year applied science and technology program concluding with a capstone project. Students develop relevant knowledge and skills with a technical emphasis and business-oriented approach. Students will recognize new ways for operating and identifying emerging technologies to meet and exceed evolving market demands, and for becoming leaders in the improvements of cross-media products and processes. The program provides students with the ability to create meaningful and measurable changes in graphic communications through applied cross-media initiatives. The required capstone project allows students to develop and demonstrate in-depth knowledge in a specific topic area. Led by senior faculty, the capstone project is designed to prepare students to be innovators in the rapidly evolving media landscape.

The curriculum concentrates on the latest technologies, which allow students to employ knowledge of print, web, mobile, and social media workflows to solve communication problems. The course work investigates strategies, processes, and technologies relating to publishing, graphic communications, print, and media. The diverse expertise of the faculty ensure a breadth of relevant experience while educating students on issues and trends across the graphic communications field. The School of Media Sciences strives to be on the leading edge of graphic communications and give students the opportunity to address real world problems within the industry. This program aims to create a collaborative environment where students combine course work with access to faculty expertise, staff support, and extensive facilities to extend their current knowledge base.

PLAN OF STUDY

The program is two semesters, 30 credit hours of study, and culminates in a capstone project.

Electives

The program encourages cross-disciplinary and interdepartmental collaboration. Students may choose elective courses from a variety of courses offered in the School of Media Sciences or with other graduate departments and programs at RIT.

Capstone project

The capstone project requires students to develop and demonstrate extensive knowledge on a specific topic related to graphic communications. Students complete original work in the form of a number of methodologies, including experiments, comprehensive case studies, surveys, focus groups, and research analysis. Outcomes from this experience include innovation of a process, recognizing unmet customer needs, solving cross-media issues, and/or identifying resources required for business transformation or business solutions.

Admission requirements

To be considered for admission to the MS program in media arts and technology, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

• Complete a graduate application. 
• Hold a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) from an accredited university or college. 
• Submit official transcripts (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work.
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent).
• Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
• Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Submit two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources.

International applications

• International applicants whose native language is not English must submit scores from the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. A minimum TOEFL score of 80 (internet-based) is required. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is required. The English language test score requirement is waived for native speakers of English or for those submitting transcripts from degrees earned at American institutions.

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The Communication Arts program uses a unique blend of theory-driven and experienced-based classes where students acquire the knowledge and skills to enter the media industry. Fields of study include production, print media, or convergent media delivery and prepares students for further study at the graduate level.The Communication Arts Graduate program addresses the Guiding Principles and Objectives for Graduate Studies with the expectation that graduate students will:

•Display mastery of both theoretical and empirical knowledge in the field of communications.
•Demonstrate intellectual imagination and professional creativity demonstrated in individual theses and projects on various issues of communications.
•Conduct critical analysis of mediated communication in both social and cultural scopes.
•Provide articulated presentation of scholarly concepts and professional works.
•Make contribution to both academic and professional sectors in the field of communications through original research and alternative perspectives.

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Develop the skills needed to design engaging and effective digital media, and explore the artistic and technical aspects of creating interactive systems.

KEY LEARNING OUTCOMES

Through the graduate program in digital media design you:
-Develop an understanding and application of the latest tools in the communication portfolio, such as web design, video, and still photography.
-Build deeper knowledge of modern production methods and perspective to harness new and emerging technologies.
-Gain experience in applied learning through varied coursework and a thesis or capstone.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The degree includes nine courses—at least one taken on campus—and a thesis or capstone project.

-Get started. You begin by completing three admission courses chosen from the program curriculum. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your commitment and ability to perform well as a Harvard student.
-Apply to the program. While you are completing your third admission course, you submit your application. We have application periods in the fall, spring, and summer.
-Continue your studies, online and on campus. As you progress through the program, you choose from courses offered on campus or online, in the fall, spring, or summer. To fully experience Harvard, you take at least one course on campus as part of your degree. Short, intensive on-campus options are available.
-Complete your thesis or capstone project. If you choose the thesis track, you work with a thesis director to conduct in-depth research on a topic relevant to your professional plans. You'll emerge with a solid understanding of how research is executed and communicated, producing publishable quality results. If you choose a capstone track, you'll apply knowledge and skills obtained in the program to produce an innovative digital media prototype, ordinarily in web design or video production, and present it to a faculty committee for artistic and technical critiques.
-Graduate with your Harvard degree. You participate in the annual Harvard Commencement, receiving your Harvard University degree: Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in extension studies, field: Digital Media Design.

COST

Affordability is core to our mission. Our 2016–17 graduate tuition is $2,550 per course; the total tuition cost of earning the graduate degree is approximately $25,500.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

The Student Financial Services staff can assist you in identifying funds that will help you meet the costs of your education. You can find more information here: http://www.extension.harvard.edu/tuition-enrollment/financial-aid

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Gain the writing and reporting skills necessary for success as a journalist in the digital age.

KEY LEARNING OUTCOMES

Through the graduate degree in the field of journalism you:
-Master the latest reporting, writing, and technical skills for traditional and digital media.
-Build greater confidence surrounding multimedia communication, identifying and pitching stories, and connecting with editors.
-Learn techniques for conducting incisive interviews, gathering salient information, and writing compelling narratives with with clarity and style.
-Build knowledge of the legal requirements and ethical responsibilities in journalism.
-Develop deeper understanding in focused topic areas, such as international security, nonprofit management, legal studies, and environmental policy.
-Compliment your journalism coursework with marketing and business communications courses to prepare for a career in business, nonprofit management, or consulting—because all industries need to tell compelling stories.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The master’s degree includes 12 courses, with at least one on campus.

-Get started. You begin by completing three admission courses from the program curriculum. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your commitment and ability to perform well as a Harvard student.
-Apply to the program. While you are completing your third admission course, you submit your application. We have application periods in the fall, spring, and summer.
-Continue your studies, online and on campus. As you progress through the program, you choose from courses offered on campus or online, in the fall, spring, or summer. To fully experience Harvard, you are required to take at least one course on campus as part of your degree. Short, intensive on-campus options are available.
-Complete your capstone project. You apply knowledge and skills obtained in the program to complete a significant journalism project under the direction of a professional in the field. You'll conduct an in-depth investigation of a single topic and emerge with a portfolio of publishable work that can include short digital media pieces, as well as longer news or magazine articles.
-Graduate with your Harvard degree. You participate in the annual Harvard Commencement, receiving your Harvard University degree: Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in extension studies, field: Journalism.

COST

Affordability is core to our mission. Our 2016–17 graduate tuition is $2,550 per course; the total tuition cost of earning the graduate degree is approximately $30,600.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

The Student Financial Services staff can assist you in identifying funds that will help you meet the costs of your education. You can find more information here: http://www.extension.harvard.edu/tuition-enrollment/financial-aid

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The Strategic Media Communications program builds on the broad knowledge and critical skills you have already developed as a liberal arts or social sciences major. It provides you with specialized professional skills designed to prepare you for leadership positions strategic media communications in a wide range industries. It features a balanced blend of courses in multimedia technology, media convergence, advertising, public relations, integrated strategic communications, research methods, theory, ethics, and international communication to give you a visible professional edge in today's communications-driven global society.

Program Highlights

Program focuses on a balance between skills training and theory.
Provides students with professional skills that give them a visible edge in the job market and makes them an indispensable asset to any business, organization, or institution.
Students develop expertise in public relations, advertising, social media and campaign planning and execution.
Students expand their horizons as socially responsible members of the global society.
Designed to accommodate full-time or part-time students.
Graduate assistantships and internships available.

Program Distinctions

Faculty have extensive professional and international experience along with their academic credentials.
Students have access to state-of-the-art media technology and computer labs.
Hands on experience is available at St. Cloud State's 24-hour radio station, student newspaper, and an HD television station.

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Columbia University's strategic communication programs were designed with a unifying vision: to respond to the industry-wide need for strategic perspective, critical thinking and exceptional communication skills at all levels of the workplace.

Combining distinguished academic faculty and leading practitioners in the field, our offerings provide students with an educational experience that is immediately applicable in the workplace.

EXECUTIVE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION

For experienced (6+ years) communication leaders who wish to enhance their skills and strategic counsel expertise. Students may be employed full-time while earning this accelerated degree.

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION

Full-Time
For early-career communication professionals, and for career-changers who want to complete their degree quickly.

Part-Time
For students who may be employed full-time while earning their degree and who want to spread out their coursework, including experienced professionals.

STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION: INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES

A week-long offering for experienced communication executives who want to learn, develop and practice effective strategies that respond to the challenges and opportunities presented in the global marketplace.

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The MA in Professional Communication (MAPC) provides the knowledge and training for superior oral, written, and visual communication skills. Our program is designed for people who seek the techniques and knowledge required to be communication specialists in a wide range of fields in an ever-shifting 21st century workplace.

The program features small class sizes, personal attention and opportunities for applied research and professional engagement.

• The program’s convenient schedule of late afternoon and evening courses appeals to full-time graduate students and enables professionals to work while completing their degree.

• The MAPC includes courses that meet both on-campus and in a hybrid (on-campus/online) format for flexibility and convenience, while providing engagement with cutting-edge technology.

• Offering three concentrations, the program creates a community of professional communicators who have varied career interests.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from the program bring a thorough knowledge and skill set of advanced communication to careers in a range of sectors — including technology, government, finance, health services, academic, and many other sectors where communications skills are highly valued.

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The West Chester Master's Program in Communication Studies focuses on building better leaders by improving their communication skills. Effective leaders must be effective communicators, and effective communicators need to develop a broad array of communication skills. In addition, the M.A. program is designed to provide a broad spectrum of knowledge in communication theory and methodology of the social scientific approach. Our program is intended for students in one of three vocational areas:

• New Careers
As a result of their Masters in Communication Studies, students have launched new careers in Internet Web Design, Training and Development, Community Organization, Consultation, Marketing, Association Management, Public Relations, and Teaching at the secondary, community college, small college, or university level.

• Career Development
Many students pursue their degrees while maintaining positions in the Delaware Valley's major corporations. They seek vocational advances as they acquire the conceptual foundations and professional skills for becoming a leader in their organization's communicative competence.

• Continuous Learning
Some students have used their West Chester M.A. to launch a Ph.D. in Communication Studies and now teach in Universities throughout the United States or work as researchers in the private sector.

Course Structure

• Non-Thesis/Applied Curriculum Option (36 credits)

1. Required Core (21 credits)

COM 501: Theoretical Perspectives on Human Communication (3)
COM 502: Communication Research Methods (3)
15 additional credits selected from departmental offerings

2. Applied Courses (15 credits)

These courses are to be selected from other departments or from communication studies courses. A three-credit or six-credit graduate internship (COM 598) may be selected upon successful completion of the required core but requires graduate coordinator approval.

3. Comprehensive Examinations

Non-thesis students may schedule their comprehensive written examinations in three areas during the semester that, upon completion, they are within six credit hours of completing the program. B

• Thesis option (36 credits)

1. Required Core (27 credits)

COM 501: Theoretical Perspectives on Human Communication (3)
COM 502: Communication Research Methods (3)
COM 601: Communication Studies Thesis 1 (3)
COM 602: Communication Studies Thesis 2 (3)
15 additional credits selected from departmental offerings

2. Applied Courses (9 credits)

These courses are to be selected from other departments or from communication studies courses.

3. Comprehensive Examinations

Thesis students may schedule their comprehensive written examinations in three areas during the semester that, upon completion, they are within six credit hours of completing the program. Thesis students also will defend their theses orally.

Note: students are not required to take summer classes, and students may attend as full-time or part-time student

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