Master's Degree in Communication
Master of Arts
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Communication Master’s Degree Program Overview
You can enhance your professional marketability and grow your career, while continuing to work full or part-time as needed, with a master’s degree in communication from Purdue University Northwest. The program offers a broad range of courses on theories and research methodologies associated with rhetoric, interpersonal communication, performance studies, media studies and so much more.
The program also uses a rolling admissions policy that allows students to enroll up to the start of each semester. The program is highly flexible and allows each graduate student to plan his/her course of study in consultation with a graduate faculty or advisor.
Department of Communications and Creative Arts
Our master’s in communication is designed specifically for students who live and work in northwest Indiana. You’ll complete advanced, highly focused studies in human communication to advance your career, prep for a doctoral program or qualify to teach dual credit.
Communication Master's Degree Program Curriculum
With an emphasis on theory, research and advanced communication techniques, this program offers a number of optional courses so you can tailor your studies to your interests.
Begin your studies with a research experience, as well as foundational courses in communication theory and practice.
Sample Courses
- COM 50000 – Introduction to Graduate Studies
- COM 58400 – Research Methods
Complete the requirements for the degree and complete your degree.
Sample Courses
- COM 56000 – Rhetoric and Mass Media
- COM 51500 – Persuasion in Social Movements
- COM 52500 – Advanced Interviewing
Communication Master's Degree Program Highlights
Our degree program is highly flexible and offers both the opportunity for career advancement and the foundation for further study. You can finish your studies in two years, and our evening classes make learning convenient for students that work full-time. You can also support your journey with graduate teaching assistantships.
Communication Master's Degree Program Outcomes
Numerous graduate students have successfully completed the program to enhance their professional skills in their current employment situations or make themselves more marketable in Northwest Indiana. Students have also used the M.A. degree to teach public speaking and other communication courses at community colleges and high schools.
The program can also help to prepare you for doctoral study or to satisfy your curiosity about the most fundamental human behavior: communication.
Communication Master’s Degree Program Career Paths
A master’s degree in communication from PNW prepares you for a number of careers in the field, including:
- Teach dual credit
- Earn admission into a doctoral program
- Advance your career
Communication Master’s Degree Program Beyond the Classroom
You’ll have many opportunities to get involved in on- and off-campus activities, including:
- The Pioneer
- Days of Discovery
- Regional and National Conferences
Communication Master’s Degree Program Employers
Graduates of this program are employed in organizations and companies like:
- Northwestern University
- Cimcor
- Museum of Science and Industry
Communication Master’s Degree Program Scholarships
In addition to the scholarships available to all PNW applicants, students seeking a master’s degree in communication may also apply for program-specific scholarship awards, such as:
- Eugene V. Debs Graduate Student Award in Communication and the Common Good
- Graduate Teaching Assistantship
When I came to Purdue Northwest, I was able to interact with people from different cultures and backgrounds. I learned a lot about leadership and the procedures of administration.
Meet the Faculty
Professor, Media Studies
Lee Artz is a professor of media studies and the director of the Center for Global Studies at Purdue University Northwest.
Professor of Communication
Catherine Gillotti is a professor of Communication and the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies for the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (CHESS).
Professor Emeritus
Mary Beth O’Connor teaches broadcasting and advertising courses and oversees both of those concentrations for the department. Additionally, she is the supervising producer for The Roundtable Perspective television show.
Assistant Professor of Mass Communication and Social Media
Rhon Teruelle’s research and teaching focus on critical communication studies.
Associate Professor of Communication
Dr. Wilbur is an Associate Professor of Communication and of Health Studies, He also serves as a Faculty Fellow in Student Affairs, and is the faculty advisor for the PNW Theatre Company.
Earn a Master's Degree in Communication at PNW
Whether you just completed your undergraduate studies or are looking to take the next step to advance your career, Purdue University Northwest’s communication master’s degree program prepares you for a career in a wide range of communication fields.
Our graduate studies staff is ready to help you take the next step! Contact us at (219) 989-2257 or grad@pnw.edu to see how PNW can meet your needs.
