Communication, M.A.

Mike Lee, Program Director
843.953.8125
leem@cofc.edu
http://communication.cofc.edu/grad-programs/index.php

Mission Statement

The Master of Arts in Communication (MCOM) is dedicated to providing a rigorous graduate experience in communication, humanities and  social sciences. Designed to deliver an understanding of communication theory, the ability to conduct basic and applied research, the capacity for critical thinking about communication problems and the competencies expected of a professional communicator, teacher or scholar, the MCOM program provides students the cognitive, research, and professional skills required of leaders in a changing and challenging information era.

Program Description

This 33 credit hour master’s degree program boasts an eclectic and engaged group of graduate faculty committed to sharing their experience and expertise with students. Striving for a collaborative experience between students and faculty, the program offers a number of successful learning initiatives, including creative independent-study projects, community-based research teams, communication pedagogy experiences and professional internships.  Full- and part-time students are welcome. Students may choose a thesis option or a non-thesis option for completing the program. The thesis option requires completion of a traditional research project, with students registering for three credit hours of Master’s Thesis during each of two consecutive semesters (COMM 701-702). The non-thesis option requires completion of an approved three-credit hour graduate Internship (COMM 795 ), with a provision for waiving the internship requirement if a student demonstrates appropriate professional experience in a communication career. Students are permitted to take up to three graduate hours at the College of Charleston outside the Communication program.

Admission Requirements

Institutional Requirements

• A completed application form with a nonrefundable application fee of $50.
• Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework. An earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is required.
• International applicants should refer to the International Students area within the “Admissions Information”  section of the catalog for information on providing appropriate documentation with the application.

Program Requirements

• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution of higher education with a 3.000 minimum GPA overall and 3.000 in the major
• A minimum GRE composite score of 300 and 4.0 analytical writing.
• Acceptable coursework in communication or a related discipline.
• Two letters of recommendation from academic sources (professors, advisors, etc.).
• A writing sample demonstrating the candidate’s academic and research capabilities.
• A statement of goals describing the candidate’s interest in a master’s degree in communication.
• Optional personal interview with the Program Director (or the Director’s designee). We encourage prospective students to visit the program. You may contact the Program Director to arrange to attend a class, tour campus, meet our staff, and talk with current students.

Application Deadlines

• Fall: March 1, Priority; July 1, Final
• Spring: No Spring Admission
• Summer: No Summer Admission

Transfer Credit Policy

An applicant or student of the M.A. in Communication program can seek approval from the Program Director to accept up to nine transfer credit hours. These courses must have a grade of B or higher, and can count toward the degree requirements if the course description and syllabus closely match the parameters set by the Communication program. Courses with a grade of “Pass” or “Satisfactory” may be accepted.

Program Requirements

• Communication, M.A.  

Student Learning Outcomes

• Communication M.A. (PDF)