At CSUN, you won't just learn advanced communication theory. You'll conduct research to advance the field and be prepared for a career as a professor or organizational leader.
Why Earn a Master's in Communication Studies?
By studying for an M.A. in communication studies, you will learn about the current theories and research areas in the field. You will study a range of topics from classical rhetorical thought to performance as communication. You will also be able to focus on an area of study to further cement your expertise. You will develop leadership skills that will help you to be at the forefront of organizations or teach at university-level programs.
Why Study Communication Studies at CSUN?
Best in the Country
Our Communication Studies program is ranked one of the 25 Best Master's in Communications Programs. Our generalist program gives you a comprehensive view of the field. At the same time, our curriculum allows for more concentrated studies in communication theory, rhetorical studies or performance, language and culture studies. This balance will prepare you to be an expert in your field and for leadership positions.
Research Focused
At CSUN, you will have opportunities to conduct original research to prepare you for your future career. As your culminating experience, you can choose between the directed comprehensive studies option, thesis project or graduate project. You will work directly with faculty to synthesize your learning or explore new areas of communication studies.
Teaching Associateship
Gain experience as a college instructor by applying to become a Teaching Associate. You will teach public speaking classes over the course of your two-year M.A. You will be responsible for creating the syllabus, leading the class and evaluating student work. You can also apply to become an Instructional Student Assistant to work with our award-winning Forensics and Performance Ensemble programs. Both positions receive a stipend.
What You'll Learn
With an M.A. in communication studies, you will be able to discuss the theories of human communication. You'll also be able to critically examine how communication affects our society.
You will take core seminars that will provide a generalist overview of the field. You'll take at least one class in each of our three communication areas, and then focus the rest of your studies in your area of specialization.
Our three communication areas are:
- Performance language and cultural studies
- Rhetorical studies
- Communication science
You will also take elective classes to complete your course requirements.
All students will complete a culminating experience. In the directed comprehensive studies option, you will complete a written and oral examination. In the thesis or graduate project option, you will create a written thesis and pass an oral defense.
Careers & Outcomes
By graduating with a master's degree in communication studies, you will be prepared for an academic or professional career. You can apply for a Ph.D. program, become a community college instructor or find a career that relies on communication.
Our graduates have joined faculty at:
- CSUN
- CSU Sacramento
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- University of South Florida
- Kansas State University
Other employers of recent alumni include:
- Sampson Coaching and Consulting
- Organic Play
- Paramount Global
Common career paths for graduates include:
- Writing and public life
- Politics
- Higher education
- Organizational and career consulting
- Entertainment
- Marketing
Admission Information
To be considered for admission to CSUN as a master’s student, you will need to
- Meet university requirements.
- Meet department requirements for the Master of Arts in Communication Studies.
- Apply to both the university and the specific graduate program of interest.
Learn more about applying for a master's program at CSUN