Communication (MA)
Overview
The Master of Arts degree in Communication is a broad-based and individualized degree program that addresses all of the essential dimensions and components of communication studies, including organizational, interpersonal, intercultural, public relations, mass media and communication theory. The student will acquire grounding in communication research, both theoretical and applied. Substantial flexibility exists for the student in communication to design a course and research program that fits his or her unique and specialized professional and educational goals.
This program is designed for those who are interested in pursuing advanced studies in communication as a means of enhancing their professional and academic careers. Specifically, the objectives of this master’s degree are to:
- Provide advanced instruction for professional-level communication career development.
- Provide instruction for teachers and educational administrators to upgrade their pedagogical and administrative skills.
- Prepare students for advanced graduate study in communication leading to the terminal Doctor of Philosophy degree.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the graduate program in communication, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to UT Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other requirements listed below:
- Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or a recognized international equivalent in Communication, Business, Social Science, or related field.
- Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 in the last 60 semester credit hours.
- GRE General Test. GRE test scores are valid for 5 years. A waiver of the GRE requirement will be granted to applicants who show proof of completing a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral).
- Three letters of recommendation from professional or academic sources.
- Personal statement (500 words) detailing professional goals and reasons for pursuing the graduate degree.
Application for admission must be submitted prior to the published deadline. The application is available at www.utrgv.edu/gradapply.
Comprehensive Examination
Non-thesis candidates for the Master of Arts in communication will be required to pass comprehensive written and oral examinations encompassing the information and materials in communication and related coursework.
Program Requirements
Required Courses - 12 Hours
Students must earn a B or better in the following four courses to fulfill requirements to be awarded the degree.
Non-Thesis Option:
Prescribed Electives - 18 Hours
Free Electives - 6 Hours
Any two graduate level courses from any department.
Capstone Requirement
Oral Comprehensive Exam
Written Comprehensive Exam
Professional Project Option:
Prescribed Electives - 12 Hours
Free Electives - 6 Hours
Any two graduate level courses from any department.
Capstone Requirement - 6 Hours
Professional Project
Thesis Option:
Prescribed Electives - 12 Hours
Free Electives - 6 Hours
Any two graduate level courses from any department.
Thesis - 6 Hours
Total Credit Hours: 36