The M.A. with a concentration in Communication Studies fosters advanced research study in speech communication and mass communication. Our faculty are interested in media portrayals of interpersonal relationships, including those involving older Americans, and examine elements of the mass media from qualitative and social scientific perspectives. Students who enroll in this program can focus their studies on interpersonal communication, international media, journalism, strategic communication and public relations, social media, media effects, or audience studies.<br><br>The Department of Communication offers a multidisciplinary program to prepare communication professionals and academicians for the demands of the 21st century. Based on perspectives from rhetoric, public argument, audience research, media studies, global communication, international communication, health communication, strategic communication and new media, Communication Studies explores public discourse and mass-mediated environments to prepare students to investigate how persuasive practices are transforming culture at home and abroad.