Communication Studies (MS)

Summary

The degree is typically sought by students interested in gaining knowledge directly applicable to a specific career path. Students usually plan a career in business or industry upon graduation. 

Catalog Year

2022-2023

Degree

Master of Science

Major Credits

36

Total Credits

36

Locations

Mankato

Online

Program Requirements

Common Core

An introduction to the communication field focusing on theory construction and the function of communication theory/models in the human experience. Contemporary theories of communication will be reviewed.

Prerequisites: none

Open only to teaching assistants of basic course in Communication Studies. Covers course design, course evaluation, methodologies for skill development, and related topics.

Prerequisites: none

Research/Methods Course(s)

Choose 3 Credit(s).

This course is designed to provide graduate students in Communication Studies with knowledge and skills necessary to evaluate qualitative research as it appears in scholarly writing and to perform qualitative research in the academic or organizational context with the rigor appropriate to that context.

Prerequisites: none

his course is designed to provide graduate students in Communication Studies with knowledge and skills necessary to evaluate quantitative research as it appears in scholarly writing and to perform quantitative research in the academic or organizational context with the rigor appropriate to that context.

Prerequisites: none

Restricted Electives

Organization and Conflict - Choose 6 Credit(s).

The course focuses on theoretical and applied aspects of persuasion. The aim is to apply theories and research findings in the area of persuasion to the development of social and political campaigns.

Prerequisites: none

This course is designed to develop an understanding of speech communication in the organizational context. The course will aid each individual in working more effectively within any type of organization through exposure to major theories and works in the area of organizational communication.

Prerequisites: none

Grassroots campaigning is a proven strategy of civic discourse, engagement, and advocacy. Grassroots organizing works from the bottom up and is uniquely suited to engage historically marginalized constituencies and to amplify the voiced of traditionally excluded populations. This course emphasizes a practical, skills-based approach grassroots advocacy using communication strategies and tactics.

Prerequisites: none

This theory and research-oriented course examines the relationship between communication and conflict, and is designed to provide students with knowledge andskills in dealing with conflict situations.

Prerequisites: none

This course will focus on preparing professional trainers and developers in communication teaching, training and development.

Prerequisites: none

This course is designed to enhance the communication skills of professionals. Students will learn theory and techniques of presentation for academic conferences, professional meetings, business and industry presentations, interviews, and group meetings. The use of technology in professional communication will be highlighted.

Prerequisites: none

Culture and Relationships - Choose 6 Credit(s).

.This course is designed to develop an understanding of how gender and communication interact. Students learn the basic theories and principles of communication as it applies to gender and develop skills to enhance communication between and among gender groups.

Prerequisites: none

Special interest courses devoted to specific topics within relationship communication. Topics vary, and course may be retaken for credit under different topic headings.

Prerequisites: none

Special interest courses devoted to specific topics within the intersecting fields of rhetoric and culture. Topics vary, and course may be retaken for credit under different topic headings.

Prerequisites: none

A critical analysis of contemporary social movement discourse and the means for advocacy by a movement. We examine communication theories, issues, trends, social movement processes, advocacy strategies, and how it all ties back into the field of contemporary communication studies.

Prerequisites: none

Required for all graduate students in the Department of Communication Studies. Surveys traditional pedagogoical theories as well as critical pedagagical theories as they pertain to teaching communication courses.

Prerequisites: none

This course explores the reasons we have difficulty communicating with people from other cultures, why misunderstandings occur, and how to build clearer and more productive cross-cultural relationships.

Prerequisites: none

This course explores and critically examines interpersonal communication theory development, current research and leading theoretical perspectives, and potential applications in contemporary interpersonal communication contexts and relationships.

Prerequisites: none

This course provides both graduate students and faculty the opportunity to work together with a specific theme that is timely and relevant to the field. May be repeated for credit.

Prerequisites: none

Communication Connections - Choose 9 Credit(s). Select courses in Communication Studies. Courses may not double-count within the degree.

Prerequisites: none

Companion Connections - Choose 6 Credit(s). Select courses outside Communication Studies.

Capstone Course

CMST 650 is required to complete the program

Choose 3 Credit(s).

Capstone Prospectus requires a student seeking an MA, MS, or MFA to complete a research proposal. The student defends the prospectus before their committee. See advisor for specifics.

Prerequisites: CMST 611 or 612

Review and interpretation of a body of research.

Prerequisites: none

Provides first-hand experience in applying communication theories in the workplace under the direction of an on-site supervisor.

Prerequisites: none

Degree Plan

The Degree Plan is a model for completing your degree in a timely manner. Your individual degree plan may change based on a number of variables including transfer courses and the semester/year you start your major. Carefully work with your academic advisors to devise your own unique plan.
* Please meet with your advisor on appropriate course selection to meet your educational and degree goals.

First Year

Fall - 9 Credits

An introduction to the communication field focusing on theory construction and the function of communication theory/models in the human experience. Contemporary theories of communication will be reviewed.

Prerequisites: none

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Research/Methods Course * 3 credits

Spring - 9 Credits

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Second Year

Fall - 9 Credits

Capstone Prospectus requires a student seeking an MA, MS, or MFA to complete a research proposal. The student defends the prospectus before their committee. See advisor for specifics.

Prerequisites: CMST 611 or 612

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Spring - 9 Credits

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Capstone Course * 3 credits