M.A. in Applied Communication

Giving you the ability to address specific issues and implement real change

The goal of the Master’s program in Applied Communication is to provide you with the competencies and skills necessary to address specific communication issues and problems that are socially relevant and to suggest or implement change. This program will increase your ability to understand and predict human interaction relative to realistic, applied outcomes associated with contemporary social problems. You will master the complexities of communication problems and acquire the tools to develop and execute strategies and create programs to address such issues.

Course Requirements

  • 15 credit hours of core requirements.
  • 15 additional credit hours

Each student may take 3 credit hours of interdisciplinary electives from outside of the Department of Communication Studies, as approved by the student’s advisor. However, this is not required.

Core Courses

COMM-C 500: Advanced Communication Theory
COMM-C 501: Applied Quantitative Research Methods
COMM-C 503: Applied Learning Project, or COMM-C 597: Thesis
COMM-C504: Pro-Seminar in Communication Graduate Studies
One of COMM-C 502, COMM-C 530, COMM-C 531, or COMM-C 680

Thesis Option / Required Field work

The student must complete either a thesis or an applied learning project to complete the degree requirements.

Grades

The student must maintain a B+ average (3.3) or higher to graduate.

Admission Requirements:

Prior to entering our master’s program, you should have (1) a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution, (2) an introduction to research methods, (3) experience in the analysis of communication phenomena, and (4) experience with writing in an academic context. Students who do not have this preparatory work may be admitted provisionally with additional coursework required prior to admission, and/or additional credit hour requirements imposed as a part of the minimum requirements for the Master of Arts degree.

The Admissions Committee will evaluate an applicant’s preparation and goals to ensure that the applicant meets the requirements of Indiana University Graduate School and that the applicant’s needs and goals are compatible with the department’s program.

The department seeks applicants who have strong analytical and writing skills, a strong liberal arts background, an interest in communication, and applicable work-related experiences.

Generally, successful applicants will have cumulative grade point averages of 3.0 or higher at the undergraduate level. The admissions committee considers all indicators of the applicant’s ability to complete the degree successfully

Applicants should submit the following:

  • Completed application form for Indiana University Graduate School.
  • Personal statement.
  • Official transcripts of all college level coursework.
  • Three letters of recommendation (from university instructors and/or professional associates) sent directly to the Director of Graduate Studies.
  • *GRE scores are not required for admission to the program; however GRE scores may be submitted if an applicant feels the scores will enhance his/her application and an applicant wishing to be considered for scholarships or fellowship support should note that strong scores on the GRE General Test ARE REQUIRED and may have a positive impact on his/her application.
  • International students must submit TOEFL scores. Information about TOEFL can be obtained from the International Affairs Office, 902 W. New York Street, ES 2126, Indianapolis, IN 46202 or 317-274-7000.

More Info

Contact Dr. Kim White-Mills, Graduate Director, MA in Applied Communication or Terri Crews, Graduate Program Team.