Communication, MA

Program Description

The Master of Arts in Communication (MAC) program cultivates an appreciation for the breadth and depth of communication inquiry. In line with the mission of the Department of Communication, the program provides students with the tools to understand, evaluate, and interpret communication scholarship and its practical applications, particularly in the areas of health communication, strategic communication, sport communication, and media and technology. The program’s research focus prepares students for advanced graduate study or can be applied to practice in a variety of communication professions. Graduates of the program have entered doctoral study, college-level teaching, and a variety of professional careers with advanced communication expertise.

The MAC program is a central part of the department, and students have opportunities to enhance their graduate experience with opportunities that include the Social Media Listening Center, Communication Research Hub, and Study Abroad. Additional information about the MA in Communication is available at https://www.clemson.edu/cbshs/departments/communication/academics/graduate/index.html.

Summary of Degree Requirements

Candidates for the MA in Communication must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours, including three core courses and additional courses selected in consultation with the faculty advisor to customize a plan of study to the student’s chosen area(s) of emphasis. The program offers thesis and non-thesis options.

Thesis Option

Students choose from two thesis options: scholarly or project. A scholarly thesis is a traditional, original research project that results in a formal thesis document. Such a project represents a significant contribution to communication scholarship in the area of interest. A project thesis is a creative undertaking such as a documentary, software application, performance, public event, archive or digital project. The project must be theoretically informed and include a significant written component.

Non-Thesis Option

Students selecting the non-thesis option complete a comprehensive exam, which assesses knowledge in their area(s) of interest. Exam questions and associated reading lists are developed in consultation with the student’s committee.  

Coursework

Required Core Courses

• COMM 8100 - Quantitative Research Methods in Communication 3 Credits  or COMM 8110 - Qualitative Research Methods in Communication 3 Credits  
• COMM 8200 - Foundations of Communication 3 Credits  
• COMM 8980 - Colloquium 1 Credit  (repeated each semester)

Electives

• Twelve to 15 credits of 8000-level courses in COMM or a related field selected in consultation with the student’s advisor. Up to six credits may be thesis work.

The number of elective courses a student takes in a specialty area depends on whether they are participating in the thesis option or comprehensive exam option. The student’s faculty advisor helps them select courses that meet their goals. After completing all coursework, students devote time to a thesis or preparing for comprehensive exams.