About the Program

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.

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.

The thesis track 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.

The professional non-thesis track includes two required courses, seven elective courses and concludes with a capstone final project course, MCOM 6050. This course will be taken in the student's final semester and will require the completion of an applied research project. The sports media focus is an option within the professional program that includes not only coursework but also an internship in a sports communication setting.

Visit the program website for more details.

Program Website

Some programs may require you to come to the main campus or regional site for a course or activity. Make sure and check with the Department/Program Advisor to ensure you are able to meet the programs' requirements before you apply. Visit the program website for more details.