The Master of Arts program in Communication Studies requires a minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate credit, including at least 30 semester hours earned at the University of Iowa and in courses numbered above 4999. No more than 6 s.h. that are numbered between 3000 and 4999 may be counted toward the major. Students must earn a program g.p.a. of at least 3.00 in major coursework.

The degree program includes specializations in interpersonal communication and relationships; media history and culture; and rhetoric, culture, engagement. 

For additional information on the Master of Arts program in Communication Studies, including courses, curriculum, and requirements, visit the UI General Catalog.

Learning Outcomes

  • Learn to interpret and contribute to communication research using qualitative, quantitative, and critical-cultural methods.
  • Evaluate and apply communication theories broadly conceived to a range of social, cultural, interpersonal, and other contextual and communicative settings.
  • Demonstrate familiarity with relevant subfields of scholarship in communication studies and related disciplines.
  • Begin relevant professional training (such as teaching technologies; pedagogy; grant writing; diversity, equity, and inclusion; digital scholarship; media production; or community engagement) to contribute to better and more equitable educational and social outcomes, and to develop transferable skills for employment both inside and outside of academic settings.
  • Cultivate the skills to communicate in writing and orally to both professional and popular audiences in ways that demonstrate intercultural competence and personal and social responsibility.

How do I apply?