Communication Studies and Journalism (M.S.) - Communication Studies Specialization

Program Coordinator/Contact
Laurie L. Haleta, Department Head
Rebecca A. Kuehl, Assistant Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Communication Studies and Theatre
Pugsley Continuing Education Center 115, Box 2218
605-688-6131
E-mail: rebecca.kuehl@sdstate.edu
www.sdstate.edu/cst/graduate-program.cfm

Program Information
The Master of Science specialization in Communication Studies is designed to provide advanced studies in the areas of communication theory, research methods, and instructional methods.  It provides further professional preparation and competencies in multiple topic areas of communication. The program provides a broad-based, graduate degree for students with an undergraduate degree in communication studies and related areas.

Through a generalist curriculum and faculty mentoring of students, the M.S. specialization in Communication Studies program has the following program goals:

• Enhance students’ written and oral communication skills;
• Increase students’ understanding of relevant issues and theories in the communication discipline;
• Augment students’ ability to conceptualize, manage, and complete different stages of an independent research project through working on a thesis;
• Cultivate students’ skills in collaboration, improving communication for the good of society;
• Prepare students for entry into doctoral programs and/or communication-related careers;
• Help students achieve their personal and professional goals toward graduation and beyond; and
• Develop students’ teaching skills to demonstrate excellence in communication instruction (if graduate teaching assistants).

Student Learning Outcomes
A graduate with a Master of Science specialization in Communication Studies will be able to:

• Recognize and apply communication theory in a variety of contexts,
• Understand multiple methodologies for conducting communication research,
• Conduct independent and original research,
• Demonstrate advanced competencies in the area of communication.

Course Delivery Format
The on campus program provides a wide range of course formats including seminars, small groups, and interactive and collaborative partnerships; limited courses are offered online.