Academics / Graduate Program

The School of Communication Studies collaborates with the College of Communication and Information to offer a concentration in Communication Studies as part of the Master of Science and Ph.D. degrees offered through the college's graduate program. Students pursuing either degree work with an energetic faculty who are actively engaged in cutting-edge research focusing in the areas of interpersonal and organizational communication.

Students choosing the Communication Studies specialization in the Master of Science program have the opportunity to learn from faculty who not only have knowledge of the the most current communication research but also have the professional experience that allows for instruction in the clear practical application of theory. Consequently, students in the Master's program develop a solid foundation of communication theory and methods as well as a practical communication toolkit, preparing them to be leaders in their career or for advanced study in a Ph.D. program.

Students choosing the Communication Studies specialization in the doctoral program work closely with School faculty learning how to generate new knowledge of communication processes. First and foremost, the doctoral program trains students to be both theoretically and methodologically sound. Additionally, students in the program choose a focus, developing broad knowledge of either interpersonal or organizational communication. Students also develop deep knowledge of two areas of specialization within the focus. Throughout the program, students work side-by-side with School faculty engaging in communication research. The School expects that at the end of this apprenticeship, students will go on to be the next generation of communication scholars in the field.