Location:

San Marcos, United States

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

Communications & Public Relations

Program Overview

Program Description:

Theory and research in communication have the potential to improve nearly every element of human life. Scholars in communication studies investigate communication processes as they occur among individuals, groups, organizations and societies. Graduates of the master of arts in communication studies program at Texas State University- San Marcos pursue careers applying communication research in profit, nonprofit and governmental organizations; teach at the community college and university levels; and pursue doctoral education. 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. Enrollment in most graduate courses is limited to 15 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. A member of The Texas State University System Course Work Students may pursue a 36-hour master of arts degree culminating in written oral and 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: Students with a focus on Organizational Communication investigate the function, flow and structure of communication in organizations in order to enhance organizational effectiveness. Key courses include Organizational Communication and Advanced Organizational Communication. Students with a focus on Rhetorical Studies investigate the power of symbols to shape perceptions and alter attitudes. Courses in this area offer a broad overview of rhetorical theory and rhetorical methods, and they allow students to focus on rhetoric in specific contexts including Political Communication, Organizational Rhetoric and Media Criticism. Students with a focus on Communication Training and Development explore the knowledge and skills needed to enhance communication performance. Courses may include Communication Training and Development, Organizational Communication, and Advanced Organizational Communication. A Certificate in Corporate Communication and Training is also available to students who complete a prescribed ninehour curriculum. Students with a focus on Interpersonal Communication investigate the role of communication in the development and maintenance of human relationships. Courses in this area include Interpersonal Communication as well as courses that allow students to study interpersonal communication in a variety of specific contexts. Students with a focus on Instructional Communication find a broad array of courses that prepare them for a career in teaching. Courses in this area include Instructional Communication and Communication Assessment. Students are also encouraged to take courses related to communication curricula typically found in community colleges, such as interpersonal communication, small group communication, public speaking and communication fundamentals. In addition, students may select courses offered by Texas State’s College of Education.