Graduate Program of Study

The M.A. in Communication Studies provides advanced study of language, interaction, and communication in relational, cultural, and societal contexts. Individuals in the specialization draw from international developments in critical and cultural studies to explore culture and communication, develop a deeper understanding of the intercultural and international dimensions of communication, and explore communication as an interactive process across diverse social relationships, activities and contexts. The program of study prepares students for scholarly or applied careers in communication, including college-level teaching and preparation for the Ph. D. in Communication.

Seminar Descriptions

The following are brief descriptions of the seminars in our School. Normal full-time load for graduate students is 6 units, or two seminars. Methods seminars are offered once per year and other topical seminars are normally offered at least once within each 2-year period. Enrollment in a particular seminar is not guaranteed, although we work very hard to ensure that each student is able to take their most desired courses. Therefore, a student can graduate by taking 2 seminars each semester for two years plus two courses during the summer. The school proposes study abroad programs for each summer with the goal of offering two summer seminars abroad each summer. Proposals may not be approved, so this is not a guaranteed element of our program. Alternatives are to take an overload two semesters or take summer courses in other departments.

• Part I: Foundational Requirements – Twelve (12) Units

  • COMM 601 - Seminar: Theory & Research Methods in Communication (3 units)
  • COMM 602 - Seminar: Qualitative and Quantitative Research Design (3 units)
  • COMM 610 - Seminar: Advanced Communication Theory (3 units)
  • COMM 640 - Seminar: Critical & Rhetorical Methods in Communication(3 units)

• Part II: Advanced Methods – Three (3) Units

  • COMM 620 - Seminar: Quantitative Methods in Communication Research (3 units)
  • COMM 660 - Seminar: Ethnographic Methods in Communication Research (3 units)
  • COMM 725 - Seminar: Health Communication Campaigns (3 units)
  • COMM 740 - Seminar: Rhetorical Theory (and Criticism) (3 units)

• Part III: Communication Context Courses – Three (3) Units

  • COMM 760 - Seminar: Organizational Communication (3 units)
  • COMM 707 - Seminar: Instructional Communication (3 units)
  • COMM 721 - Seminar: Health Communication (3 units)
  • COMM 735 - Seminar: Relational Communication (3 units)
  • COMM 771 - Seminar: Intercultural Communication (3 units)

• Part IV: Electives – Nine (9) Units




• Part V: ulminating Experience: Thesis or Comprehensive Exam – Three (3) Units