Communication Studies (MA)

M.A.Communication Studies

Scholars in communication studies investigate communication processes as they occur among individuals, groups, organizations, and societies.

The program offers a comprehensive degree incorporating empirical and rhetorical research methods. Students also may customize their programs by concentrating on specialized areas. The program receives consistently high rankings in surveys of master's programs in communication studies. Some alumni pursue doctoral education at the country's top Ph.D. programs.

Course Work

Enrollment in most graduate courses is limited to 18 students. This seminar format allows students to receive individual attention and to explore research programs unique to their own interests. Many classes are offered in the evenings to accommodate working students. Students may pursue a 36-hour master of arts degree culminating in comprehensive exams or a 30-hour degree that includes a thesis. After completion of two required communication research methods courses, students can design their own customized programs from one or more of the following program areas:

•   relationship management & well-being

•   persuasion, advocacy, & civic engagement

•   professional & organizational advancement

Program Details

Students who are graduate instructional assistants earn financial support during school while taking part in a world-class teacher training program through the department's Teaching & Learning Academy.

Program Mission

Communication studies examines the creation, expression and analysis of messages in the personal, professional, and public spheres. Students learn to manage message processes within and among individuals, groups, organizations, and societies. They explore verbal and nonverbal communication, organizational and business communication, rhetoric and criticism, argumentation and persuasion, and communication technology. Communication studies majors learn principles and practical skills useful for careers in business, industry, government, nonprofit organizations, social services, and education. Graduates enter such professions as law, business, public relations, event planning, public service, teaching, management, human resources, training and development, marketing, sales, public administration, and politics.

Career Options

The program prepares students to meet the needs of industry, the public sector, and academia in the following roles:

• corporate trainer
• project manager
• nonprofit director
• entrepreneur
• user experience
• researcher
• human resources officer
• lobbyist
• marketing manager
• elected official
• advertising manager
• press secretary
• fundraiser
• health services manager
• government administrator
• account executive
• instructional program designer
• event planner
• instructional program
• consultant 
• speech writer
• editor
• teacher
• leadership professional 
• legislative assistant
• campaign director
• foreign service officer
• sales director
• executive director

Program Faculty

Faculty members engage in research partnerships with students and community members to embrace and pursue bold, interdisciplinary solutions to common communication challenges. Findings from their work are published in national and international peer-reviewed journals and books, and many of our faculty members are cited as communication research experts in media outlets worldwide. Faculty members have received grants and other extramural funding for their work, and the department is home to recipients of the most prestigious university-level research award at Texas State.