Program Goals
Graduate Program Goals
By completing the graduate program, students will:- understand the depth and breadth of the discipline of communication.
- learn and appropriately apply communication theories and methods to solve human communication problems.
- learn advanced research skills in
area of research interest. - develop critical thinking and writing skills
Shared Learning Outcomes for all graduate students
By the end of the degree program students will demonstrate:- knowledge of the history, theories, and research practices in communication studies.
- the ability to articulate, critique, or elaborate theories, methods, approaches or practices across a range of communication contexts.
- the ability to design projects to solve communication problems by thinking analytically about communication problems, applying communication theory, and analyzing solutions.
- facility with advanced research skills appropriate to the discipline
- developed writing practices including coherent, logical, and persuasive arguments in the appropriate tone/voice.
Specific Learning Outcomes for each track
Comprehensive Exams
Students will:- demonstrate an awareness of the breadth and/or depth of communication theories related to their stated research interests.
- synthesize and critique literature related to their research interests.
- demonstrate and understanding and ability to apply appropriate methods to research relevant to their research interests.
Thesis
Students will:- demonstrate an understanding of breadth and depth of research related to topic/s of study including current theories and methods.
- demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research in crafting appropriate research questions/theses, designing and executing the appropriate method, analyzing data, discussing findings, and articulating the limitations of original research.
- demonstrate ethical research and writing practices relevant to
area of study. - complete thesis project demonstrating a mastery of writing and presentation of original argument relevant to
area of study.
Professional/Creative Project
Students will:- synthesize strengths of various theories, models, and principles to communication applications.
- critically analyze ethical issues related to
creative or professional project. - demonstrate awareness of and analyze diversity issues related to
creative or professional project. - demonstrate medium specific skill sets in the appropriate platform(s).
- complete projects that show mastery of writing, producing, and/or management.
