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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.

Visit the program website for more information.

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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 incorporates 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.

Format:
  • Face To Face

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 general requirements for graduate admission, visit Grand Valley State University’s admission section of the online catalog.

Admission into the communications program has additional requirements, which are available on this page.

If you have additional questions, please contact our graduate admissions office.

For More Information

School of Communications

gvsu.edu/soc
290 Lake Superior Hall
(616) 331-3668

Graduate Admissions and Recruitment Office

gvsu.edu/gradapply

Program Director

Anthony Spencer, Ph.D.
(616) 331-3512