Texas Tech University

Master of Arts in Mass Communication

The 30-hour Master of Arts in Mass Communication program is designed to prepare students to succeed in the communications industry or to continue studies toward a Doctor of Philosophy degree. Depending upon courses selected, graduate students are prepared for careers and advanced study in media and communication fields, journalism, publishing, advertising, public relations, and other related industries.

Mass Communication M.A. Program Tracks

Students in the Mass Communication master's program are offered two curriculum options: a traditional research-based thesis track or a professional non-thesis track. Both tracks are 30 credit hours.

Thesis Track

The thesis track prepares students for in-depth studies in theory and research as well provides the foundation for the pursuit of a Ph.D. degree. 

The program requires 24 hours of coursework and a minimum of six hours of thesis credit. The thesis is comprehensive original research and typically takes a full summer or regular semester to complete. Coursework must include three required courses: MCOM 5366, MCOM 5364, and MCOM 5374.

View additional thesis track details.

Professional Track

The professional track allows students to develop additional professional skills across a variety of media fields.

The program includes two required courses, seven elective courses and concludes with a capstone final project course, MCOM 6350. This course will be taken in the student's final semester and will require the completion of an applied research project.

View additional professional track details.

Need assistance deciding which track is right for you?

Contact the graduate advisor for M.A. programs:
Mary S. Norman, Ph.D.
mary.s.norman@ttu.edu 
(806-834-4570)
Media & Communication Building, Room 158E

Apply Now!

If you are interested in applying, please submit an application.

Find more information about applying to the Mass Communication master's program and links to the Texas Tech Graduate School website.

Financial Aid

Find scholarship and financial information for master's students.

Learn about additional funding opportunities in the College of Media & Communication.

For more information about financial aid for graduate students, contact the TTU Office of Financial Aid.

More Information

View the Graduate Catalog and Course Schedule

Fill out the graduate inquiry form to receive additional communications, application information and event registration details. 

Looking for additional opportunities to become certified in specific fields of communication? Learn about our graduate certificate programs. Students may complete graduate certificates in addition to any of the M.A. programs or by itself.

Have Questions?

Mary S. Norman, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Practice & Coordinator of TTU CoMC M.A. Programs (806)834-4570 | Media & Communication Building, Room 158E
mary.s.norman@ttu.edu