University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.A. - Communication

Format: Campus

Program Description:

In the Division of Communication you may work toward the Master of Arts (MA) in organizational communication, interpersonal communication, public relations, and media studies. Many students elect to take most of their courses in one area and one or two courses in an adjunct area. Some will achieve a blend between areas, depending upon how they define an area of concentration. Working with your advisor, you define a plan of study best suited to your career/academic goals.

Although a full-time student can complete this program in two years, many plan a two- to seven-year part-time program. You must earn a minimum of 30 graduate credits, plus one credit for colloquium, but many students finish with more than 31 credits.

The graduate program in Communication is a program that attracts a wide variety of students. We have both part-time and full-time students, students with job experience and students who enter the program immediately following their undergraduate degree, and students with a variety of interests and career goals. As such, we offer two options for the culminating experience required to complete the degree. Students may choose between completing a thesis, a research study with more of a theoretical focus, or a project, which is a research project with a more applied focus. The differences between completing the thesis and project option are explained below.

Students may choose one of two options for completing their graduate degree:

Option 1: Thesis Option
24 credits of coursework, plus 6 credits for thesis, and one colloquium credit

Option 2: Project Option
27 credits of coursework, plus 3 credits for project, and one colloquium credit

Accreditation:

The Higher Learning Commission

Eligibility Requirements:

Complete a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution.
Submit undergraduate transcripts with GPAs.
Submit results of the Graduate Record Examination. (You may appeal to the graduate coordinator for an exception.)
Submit a statement of purpose which explains what role the completed degree will play in your future.
Submit a 5-7 page sample of your writing ability.
Write a brief analytical/critical response to a common essay provided to all applicants.
Provide two letters of recommendation that address the likelihood of your success in a graduate program.
Document relevant work experience that you want the admissions committee to consider.
International student applicants must also present a minimum TOEFL score of 91. Please inquire about other requirements for foreign students.

# of Credits Required:

31

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

488 USD

Tuition In-State Full Time:

8055 USD

Tuition Out of State Full Time:

17826 USD

Financial Aid Offered: Yes

Classification: Master's Colleges & Universities I

Institution Sector: Public

Locale: Distant Town

Size & Settings: 5,000 - 9,999