Master of Arts in Communication | University of Portland

Master of Arts in Communication

The master of arts program prepares students broadly for professional advancement or for doctoral academic work. Areas of emphasis in the MA program include journalism, organizational communication, and rhetorical studies.

Depending on their goals and background, MA students may be admitted into a thesis or non-thesis course of study:

  • Option A (thesis) is recommended for students with academic aspirations beyond the master's level, and is intended to prepare the student for doctoral study.
  • Option B (non-thesis) is designed for the student who seeks advanced professional preparation with an academic foundation.

Both options require a minimum of 36 hours of communication courses, including nine hours in core courses and six hours in each of two areas of emphasis. Students must complete core course requirements with a minimum B average.

Communication, MA Degree Requirements