Communications, M.S.
As the field of communication has evolved, research-based decision making has become increasingly important. Specifically, communication professionals must be able to acquire and assess relevant information and effectively integrate their analysis into the decision-making process.
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Program Overview
The Master of Science in communication is a versatile program that meets the needs of those in the field of communication. Students will enhance their professional effectiveness and their leadership skills, and they will find it beneficial to their career development. Visit the School of Communications website at gvsu.edu/soc for admissions requirements.
Why Study Communications at Grand Valley?
- Faculty members specialize in teaching communication concepts and skills that are relevant and in-demand.
- Students will gain leadership skills, knowledge of theory and research and their application, the ability to access information to solve communication problems, and the ability to effectively implement information into the decision-making process.
- The program is designed with working professionals in mind. Courses are scheduled during evening hours and offered downtown at Grand Valley's Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus. The program also incorporated hybrid/online courses as well as individualized projects that count toward the completion of program requirements.
- Taken part time, the versatile program can be completed in two to three years, with assistantships available on a competitive basis.
- The program has many ties with business, community, and cultural organizations, and has contacts with experts in a variety of areas in communications. These contacts serve as outstanding resources both within the classroom and for internships.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
Location & Format
Classes for graduate students in this major meet downtown on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.
Formats:- Face To Face
- Hybrid
Coursework
A variety of coursework is offered, including:
- System Theory
- Communication Law
- Communication Research
- Communication Management
- Ethics in Professional Communication
- Emerging Communication Technologies
Application Deadline
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Deadline for fall semester start is July 15, winter is November 15, and spring/summer is March 15. The $30 nonrefundable application fee is waived if the applicant has previously applied to GVSU.
Admission Requirements
For admission to the Master of Science in communications, applicants must provide all information required by the university. This includes an official transcript from your baccalaureate degree granting institution or equivalent international credential, and a 500-word essay that addresses the candidate's career goals and how the GVSU graduate program in communications is relevant to these goals. Please note the following additional criteria for admission:
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 credits of undergraduate work.
- Applicants with less than a 3.0 GPA may meet alternate admissions criteria such as professional work experience, personal interview, or academic success in specified courses.
- Background coursework in communication theory and research methods advisable.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- A phone interview with a representative from the School of Communications.
Helpful Links
For More Information
School of Communications
gvsu.edu/soc
290 Lake Superior
Hall
(616) 331-3668
Program Director
Anthony Spencer, Ph.D., Program
Director
(616) 331-3512
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