M.A. in Political Science
The M.A. in Political Science program at Northern Arizona University is designed to off...
M.A. in Communication
Flagstaff, Arizona
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communication program at Northern Arizona University (NAU) offers students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of communication theories, strategies, and practices in various contexts. This program is designed to equip graduates with advanced communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and research expertise to excel in diverse professional settings. With a variety of specialization options, research opportunities, and flexible learning formats, the program caters to the unique career aspirations and interests of individual students.Graduates emerge with advanced communication skills, research expertise, and a deep understanding of communication practices in diverse contexts, making them well-equipped for successful careers in various industries.
Curriculum:
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Core Courses: The program includes a set of core courses that provide a comprehensive foundation in communication theory, research methods, and ethical communication practices. Students gain insights into various communication perspectives and learn how to analyze and critique communication practices in different social, cultural, and organizational contexts.
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Specialization Areas: The M.A. in Communication program offers students the flexibility to choose from various specialization areas based on their interests and career goals. Some common specialization options include interpersonal communication, organizational communication, media studies, health communication, and strategic communication.
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Research Opportunities: NAU's M.A. in Communication program emphasizes research, providing students with opportunities to engage in original research projects. Through research, students develop strong analytical skills, learn to conduct empirical studies, and contribute to the advancement of communication scholarship.
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Faculty Expertise: The program is led by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in various communication fields. They bring diverse perspectives and industry experience to the classroom, ensuring students receive high-quality education and mentorship.
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Internship Opportunities: The program encourages students to gain practical experience through internships with local organizations, media outlets, non-profit agencies, or corporate communication departments. These hands-on experiences provide valuable networking opportunities and help students bridge the gap between theory and practice.
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Capstone Project or Thesis: In the final stages of the program, students complete either a capstone project or a thesis, depending on their chosen track. The capstone project allows students to apply their learning to real-world communication challenges, while the thesis involves in-depth research on a specific communication topic.
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Flexibility: The M.A. in Communication program is designed to accommodate both full-time and part-time students. Courses are offered in various formats, including on-campus, online, and hybrid, to cater to the needs of working professionals or students with other commitments.
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Networking Opportunities: NAU provides ample networking opportunities through workshops, conferences, guest lectures, and professional events. These events connect students with communication professionals, potential employers, and alumni working in various industries.
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Career Preparation: Graduates of the M.A. in Communication program are well-prepared for a wide range of communication-related careers. They can pursue roles in public relations, marketing, corporate communication, media production, social media management, event planning, and more.
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Ph.D. Pathway: For students interested in furthering their academic career, the M.A. in Communication program serves as a pathway to Ph.D. programs in communication or related fields.
Location
Flagstaff, Arizona
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 29360
Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs
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Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs at NAU should have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The university typically requires a minimum academic performance of 65% or higher for consideration.
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English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 80 or higher
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105
To support their academic pursuits, NAU offers various scholarships and financial aid options. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community. International students are encouraged to explore the available scholarships to help ease the financial burden of studying in the United States.
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Global Achievement Award: This scholarship is available to incoming international undergraduate students and is based on academic merit. The Global Achievement Award provides partial tuition waivers, making quality education more affordable for deserving international students.
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International Excellence Award: The International Excellence Award is a competitive scholarship available to outstanding international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements. Recipients of this scholarship receive a substantial tuition reduction.
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Into NAU Scholarships: Into NAU is a pathway program for international students, and it offers several merit-based scholarships for students entering NAU through the program. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and leadership potential.
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Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship: This scholarship is available to transfer students who are members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. It offers financial assistance to eligible international transfer students pursuing their bachelor's degree at NAU.
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Diversity Scholarships: NAU values diversity and offers several scholarships that promote inclusivity and support underrepresented international students. These scholarships aim to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community.
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Athletic Scholarships: Talented student-athletes have the opportunity to receive athletic scholarships, which are awarded based on athletic performance, skills, and potential to contribute to NAU's athletic teams.
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Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at NAU offer scholarships to international students based on specific academic achievements and majors. Students are encouraged to inquire with their respective departments for available opportunities.
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Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students may have the chance to secure graduate assistantships, which provide financial support and valuable professional experience through research, teaching, or administrative roles.
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External Scholarships: NAU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities available through organizations, governments, and foundations that provide financial support for studying in the United States.
Application Process and Deadlines: Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines.
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communication program at Northern Arizona University (NAU) equips graduates with a diverse skill set and advanced knowledge of communication theories and practices. As a result, M.A. in Communication graduates are well-prepared to pursue rewarding careers in various industries.Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue a wide range of exciting and rewarding career opportunities in public relations, corporate communication, marketing, media, event planning, health communication, and more. With a focus on practical experience, research, and networking, the program prepares students for successful careers in diverse industries and provides a solid foundation for further academic pursuits.
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Public Relations Specialist: M.A. in Communication graduates can excel as public relations specialists, crafting and managing the communication strategies of organizations, businesses, or non-profit entities. They work to maintain a positive public image, handle media inquiries, and engage with key stakeholders.
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Corporate Communication Manager: Communication graduates with a focus on organizational communication can take on roles as corporate communication managers. They oversee internal and external communication initiatives, ensuring clear and effective communication within the company and with external stakeholders.
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Marketing Manager: Graduates with expertise in strategic communication and consumer behavior can pursue careers as marketing managers. They develop marketing campaigns, analyze market trends, and use communication strategies to promote products and services.
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Media and Public Relations Coordinator: With a strong foundation in media studies and public relations, M.A. in Communication graduates can work as media and public relations coordinators for media outlets, government agencies, or corporate organizations.
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Social Media Manager: Social media has become a crucial aspect of communication in the digital age. Graduates with knowledge of social media trends and strategies can excel as social media managers, responsible for managing and growing the online presence of businesses and organizations.
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Event Planner: Individuals with expertise in communication and event planning can pursue careers as event planners, organizing and coordinating various types of events, including conferences, seminars, and promotional events.
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Health Communication Specialist: Graduates with a focus on health communication can work as health communication specialists, developing communication strategies to educate the public about health issues and promote healthy behaviors.
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Human Resources Specialist: Communication graduates with knowledge of interpersonal communication and organizational behavior can pursue roles in human resources, helping to improve communication within organizations and facilitate effective teamwork.
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Media Production Manager: Graduates with a background in media production can work as media production managers, overseeing the creation of multimedia content for various platforms, such as television, radio, or online media.
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Academic and Research Positions: The M.A. in Communication program also prepares students for further studies and research in communication or related fields. Graduates may pursue Ph.D. programs and academic positions as communication scholars.
