Communication Studies, M.A.
Graduate Program
About the Program
Success Starts Here
Study communication and its impact on the world.
The goals of the Master of Arts program in Communication Studies are to provide students with a rigorous educational experience, to develop an advanced understanding of the human communication process, to increase awareness of the interdisciplinary nature of the communication field, and to develop oral, written, critical thinking, and research skills. Students complete coursework in persuasion, interpersonal, intercultural, organizational, and health communication together with research methods applicable to these areas.
Two programs are offered. The thesis program emphasizes the student’s development of research skills under faculty supervision (30 credits). The non-thesis program focuses on a theoretical foundation with emphasis on applied communication (36 credits). Students will be prepared for leadership positions in public or private organizations at the national or international level, or pursue advance degrees.
Organizational Communication Track
Organizations are complex networks of people, personalities, partnerships, and perspectives. Organizational effectiveness is defined by one’s ability to bring these diverse perspectives together to create dynamic and flexible institutions that are adaptable and resilient to a rapidly changing world. In the Master of Arts program in Communication Studies, we take a people-centered approach to leadership, translating a well-established body of theory-based research into practice-based learning, including core knowledge and skills that professionals need to be highly successful in their chosen careers. Our program is designed to cultivate interpersonal, organizational, and cultural competencies necessary for career advancement and success.
Program Goals
Our program goals are to foster the development of the dynamic, flexible, and collaborative interpersonal skills that are fundamental and essential qualities of effective leaders. We take a multifaceted approach blending theory with applied skills and practice to cultivate four distinct skillsets that will position students for success: collaborating in teams, management skills, analytic and presentations skills, and leadership in diverse organizations.
Student Learning Competencies
Through this program, student will develop essential skills across four competencies crucial to organizational advancement:
Other Tracks
Nicholas Carcioppolo
Graduate Coordinator for the MA degree
n.carcioppolo@miami.edu
(305) 284-5633
Resources
Showcase Your Talents
UM Debate is a diverse group of students who are passionate about sparking intellectual discussions, coming up with creative arguments, presenting well-structured ideas – in short, they love debate. Team members participate in a wide range of activities, from competitive international tournaments to intimate on-campus discussions.
Featured Projects
A few of our communication studies projects, all done by our very own students and faculty.