Mass Communication

An advanced degree in mass communications prepares you for an expanding world of opportunity. The Master’s in Mass Communications develops your understanding of society, culture and mass media.  

Degree objectives

• Make critical judgments about the way media cover topics about race, culture and gender.

• Recognize and analyze stereotypes of racial/ethnic groups, women and others.

• Recognize and discuss the nature of mass media.

• Identify and comprehend the ethical codes and laws regulating media.

• Be able to explain the roles of advertising/public relations within a market economy.

• Understand multiple audiences, gaining respect for cultural, racial and gender differences.

100% Online

Curriculum: Master’s in Mass Communications (MA or MS), non-thesis track

Course Requirements (31 total credit hours)

• JMC 600 - Seminar in International Mass Communications OR JMC 615 - History of U.S. Journalism Broadcasting

• JMC 610 - Introduction to Graduate Studies

• JMC 630 - Theories of Mass Communications

• JMC 648 - Mass Media Industries

• JMC 660 - Methods of Communication Research

• JMC 670 - Philosophical and Ethical Concepts of Mass Media

• JMC 690 - Comprehensive Project

• Four courses from the following:

  • JMC 600 - Seminar in International Mass Communications

  • JMC 601 - Media, Culture, Gender and Race

  • JMC 602 - Seminar Advertising

  • JMC 603 - Seminar in Public Relations

  • JMC 615 - History of U.S. Journalism and Broadcasting

  • JMC 616 - Professional Internship in Mass Communications

  • JMC 620 - Strategic Communications

  • JMC 622 - JMC Study Abroad

  • JMC 658 - New Media Technologies

  • JMC 677 - Directed Individual Study

  • JMC 685 - Specialized Mass Communications

  • JMC 686 - Special Topics

Other Degree Requirements

• The semester before enrolling in JMC 690, the capstone course, the student must meet with the Graduate Coordinator, present a proposal for the project, and gain approval of the proposal.

• For the Master of Arts degree only, the candidate must demonstrate competency in an approved foreign language.

An advanced degree in public relations means a broad spectrum of careers are within your reach. The Master’s in Mass Communications/Public Relations allows you to study the power of public opinion and the theories surrounding media and our society.

Degree Objectives

• Understand multiple and diverse audiences

• Write strategically and persuasively in the corporate environment.

• Synthesize writing, research and public relations principles into a viable action plan

• Understand current global issues in public relations including an appreciation for diversity.

• Work professionally on a team and appreciate the importance of diverse perspectives.

100% online

You won't be limited by times of the day, days of the week or geographic location while pursuing  your degree. The program’s flexibility will allow you to complete coursework while you are working. Work towards your degree at times that are most convenient for you!

Curriculum: Master’s in Mass Communications/Public Relations Concentration (MA or MS), non-thesis track

Course Requirements (31 total credit hours)

• JMC 601 - Media, Culture, Gender and Race

• JMC 602 - Seminar Advertising

• JMC 603 - Seminar in Public Relations

• JMC 610 - Introduction to Graduate Studies

• JMC 620 - Strategic Communications

• JMC 630 - Theories of Mass Communications

• JMC 658 - New Media Technologies

• JMC 660 - Methods of Communication Research

• JMC 670 - Philosophical and Ethical Concepts of the Mass Media

• JMC 690 - Comprehensive Project

• One course from the following:

  • COM 682 - Crisis Communication

  • JMC 616 - Professional Internship in Mass Communications

  • MKT 667 - Marketing Planning Application

  • NLS 675 - Social Entrepreneurship

Other Degree Requirements

• The semester before enrolling in JMC 690, the student must meet with the graduate director, present a proposal for the project, and gain approval of the proposal.

• For the Master of Arts degree only, the candidate must demonstrate competency in an approved foreign language.