Master of Arts in Communication
The M. A. in Communication at Washington State University is designed for individuals seeking higher-level and focused understanding of communication theory, processes and phenomena, whether their intent is to prepare for doctoral-level study in pursuit of an academic career or a communication-related career in business, government, education, research, or the communications industry. Successful completion of the program normally requires two academic years of full time study and results in the granting of the Master of Arts in Communication. Our program centers on:
- Media, Health, & Social Issues focuses broadly on relations between media and the issues and problems that face society today, such as health, poverty, and crime. This includes social level analysis of mainstream and alternative media as products of and influences on society; individual level analysis of psychological and physiological processes through which knowledge, attitudes and behaviors are shaped; and the creation of messages related to health and social well-being, as well as how strategic messages campaigns are can influence decision making and social development.
- Communication, Organizations, & Culture focuses on the role of communication in creating, maintaining and transforming socially collective groups ranging from for-profit businesses and corporations to non-profit community organizations and social movements. Because culture is central to social change and stasis, the study of intercultural communication is an integral scholarly component. Students focus on how meanings surrounding race, gender, ethnicity, and nationality are created and challenged through communicative practices.
Individuals with a Bachelor of Arts degree in the humanities or social sciences may be qualified for admission to the program. However, undergraduate work in mass communication or communication studies provides especially valuable preparation for successful graduate work in communication. Persons without previous training in one or more of these general areas may be required to complete supplemental undergraduate coursework.
All students in the program, regardless of their emphases, share a common core of courses and choose either to write a thesis or complete an additional nine hours of coursework and a comprehensive examination.
M. A. Application Deadlines
Students are admitted to the M. A. program at the start of the fall semester. M. A. applications must be submitted to the Graduate School and to the College of Communication by January 10 for Fall admission.
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