Information on Master of Communication Degree Program
Majors Overview June 20, 2015This article talks about Master of Communication degree programs and their educational requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Information on Communication Degree Programs
Few schools, if any, offer a Master of Communications program in the United States; however, some offer Master of Science (M.S.) and Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communication programs. In these programs, students will explore general communication theories wherein they will gain an explanation about the modes of listening and understanding of people. Students will develop skills in analysis, critical thinking, public speaking, and business writing. They learn through hands-on training and classroom courses. Many schools have devised programs aimed at working students and offer them on a part-time schedule or in the evenings. They also offer programs in online formats. Students take about two years to complete these programs.
Master of Science (M.S.) Programs in Communication
Coursework in most MS in Communication programs is a combination of practical and theoretical work, which allows development by students of leadership, management and communication skills while simultaneously acquiring basic knowledge of communication principles. An opportunity for real-world application is provided to students via analysis of issues, development of solutions and creation of messages. Students enrolled in some programs are given the chance to choose from various concentration areas, including strategic organizational communication. Students enrolled in many programs are required to develop a thesis pertinent to a significant problem in the field.
Educational Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree, in addition to submitting a resume, and, in some programs, a writing portfolio.
Coursework
Program coursework is devised to develop students’ understanding of ethical, historical, social and legal issues. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•Business media
•Leadership
•Strategy
•Persuasion
•Citizenship
•Marketing
•Ethics
•Global connection
Career Choices
Program graduates can seek careers in public relations, marketing, and creative services for various industries. They may pursue possible job positions such as:
•Intercultural communications specialist
•Publicist
•Speech writer
Master of Arts (M.A.) Programs in Communication
Coursework in a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communication is usually a combination of areas of business, communication, and instruction. Most schools offer programs devised to guide students in business technologies, leadership practices, and project management. Students can opt for an emphasis or concentration area, such as strategic communication, leadership and management, dispute resolution or information technologies communication. Completion and defense of a thesis is a requirement in some programs; the project could lead to the development of skills in writing, research, and editing. Students enrolled in many programs are also required to pass a comprehensive examination or complete a professional project before they can graduate from the program.
Educational Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree, in addition to submitting a written goal statement; in some programs, applicants for admission may be expected to pass a communication writing exam.
Coursework
The focus of the program coursework is on ethical and theoretical perspectives. Students can gain expertise in addressing conflict, analyzing and evaluating situations and writing for various audiences. Students may also get the opportunity of connecting to real-world issues. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•Intercultural communication
•Writing speeches
•Social influence
•Interviewing
•Rhetoric
•Argument
•Mass media
•Human conflict
•Speaking professionally
Career Choices
Program graduates can seek careers in business and education. They may pursue possible job positions such as:
•Public relations manager
•Sales manager
•Marketing manager
•Public speaking educator
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, a job growth of 12% has been predicted for marketing managers. During the same period, public relations managers are expected to see a job growth of 13% while sales managers are expected to enjoy a growth rate of 8% (the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, public relations managers brought in an average annual wage of $95,450. During the same year, marketing managers, and sales managers earned $115,750 and $105,260, respectively, per annum, on average (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Program graduates can opt for continued education by enrolling in a doctoral program in communication that could lead to a career in academia or research.
