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MA Communication

Master of Arts

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Excel with a Master’s Degree

The master’s program in communication at Washington State University affords students a world-class curriculum, faculty, and facilities to prepare them as scholars and educators. The primary objective of the master’s program is to facilitate independent and critical thinking skills through scholarship, preparing students to succeed as scholars, educators and leaders in government, business and nonprofit organizations.

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Student Handbook

Program of Study

The master’s program typically takes two years to complete. Students must complete all requirements within six years of their initial registration for courses to maintain their status as a master’s student in good standing in the Murrow College of Communication. Requirements include course requirements, a prospectus defense, and a presentation and defense of a thesis based on original, independent research.

Thesis Option

Minimum of 27 graded credits

Core Courses (9 credits)

COM 570 – Communication Theory
COM 509 – Quantitative Research
Methods Course from inside or outside the College of Communication

Major Area of Concentration (18 credits)

12-15 Credits from inside the College of Communication
3-6 Credits from outside the College of Communication
COM 700 – Thesis
COM 500 – Colloquium (4 x 1 credit)

Note: Three credits of independent study (S/F) may be substituted for three credits of graded coursework.

Non-Thesis Option

Minimum of 33 graded credits

Core Courses (9 credits)

COM 570 – Communication Theory
COM 509 – Quantitative Research
Methods Course from inside or outside the College of Communication

Major Area of Concentration (24 credits)

15-18 Credits from inside the College of Communication
6-9 Credits from outside the College of Communication
COM 702 – Exam
COM 500 – Colloquium (3 x 1 credit)

Note: Three credits of independent study (S/F) may be substituted for three credits of graded coursework.

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Student Learning Outcomes

Knowledge of the field
Understand the breadth and depth of knowledge within the discipline, including current theories and methods and demonstrate competency in identifying and interpreting research on topics in communication.
Scientific reasoning and research process
Conduct independent research to identify research questions and hypotheses and design, execute, analyze, report on original research.
Communication
Communicate complex problems and research effectively to diverse audiences using appropriate media and communication tools.
Original scholarly contribution
Make original contributions to the discipline through presentations at academic conferences and publication in peer-reviewed academic outlets.
Teaching proficiency
Nurture and train graduate students to become effective teachers in the field of communication.

Application Info

Applications Deadlines

Students are admitted to the M. A. program for the fall semester. Completed applications must be submitted to the Graduate School by January 10 for fall admission. The priority deadline is November 1.

Application Instructions

Complete a general application with WSU Graduate School, indicating an interest in a degree program. Also include:

Unofficial transcripts from all previous attended colleges and universities
International students submit English proficiency scores as required
Current CV or resume
Statement of purpose (see right)
(Optional) Academic writing sample

Notes

There is a $90 application fee (non-refundable)
This program does not require any undergraduate prerequisites but applicants must have bachelor’s degree with minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0*
No GRE required

*The minimum GPA requirement for admission into WSU Graduate School is 3.0. Applicants with a GPA below 2.99 are subject to departmental review and consideration.

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Statement of Purpose

A statement of no more than 1,000 words explaining your research interests and why you feel The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University is a good fit for you. In your statement, please discuss the personal, professional and academic factors that have prepared you to pursue a graduate degree.

Funding Opportunities

All applicants are automatically evaluated for funded assistantship positions without additional application requirements outside the Graduate School General Graduate Application.

Jackson Fellowship

Established by Keith M. Jackson, a Class of 1954 graduate in communications, and Turi Ann Jackson, a member of the Class of 1952, these graduate fellowships were established to supplement our regular graduate student support.

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