Nicholson School of Communication
M.A. Communication
The Nicholson School of Communication offers a Master of Arts degree in Communication with two tracks of study—Interpersonal Communication and Mass Communication. The graduate program emphasizes research, theory, and applied perspectives in both tracks. Both tracks offer thesis and non-thesis (comprehensive exams) options. Graduates of the program derive benefits in a variety of academic and career dimensions, including entry into doctoral programs, as well as improved marketability for career advancement and change.
The program features:
- opportunities for assistantships and fellowships
- student participation in faculty research
- flexible programs of study
- access to a network of graduate students who already hold professional positions in communication fields
- evening classes
- program entry in any semester
- full-time or part-time enrollment options
When applying to the graduate program, students should apply to the online Office of Graduate Studies. All supporting documentation (GRE scores, transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement, etc.) should have the applicant’s name and Social Security Number printed on them and be sent to:
Office of Graduate Studies
University of Central Florida
P. O. Box 160112
Orlando, FL 32816-0112
The Office of Graduate Studies will archive this information and then forward it to the Nicholson School of Communication for evaluation by its graduate coordinator.
Students in both the Mass Communication and the Interpersonal Communication tracks must select either the thesis or comprehensive exam option. The decision whether to write a thesis and defend it in an oral examination or to take the comprehensive exams should be made in consultation with the Nicholson School of Communication graduate coordinator.
The thesis option requires ten courses (30 credits) and the successful defense of a thesis (4 credits), for a program total of 34 credit hours.
The comprehensive exam option requires 11 courses (33 credits) and successful completion of the comprehensive exams, for a program total of 33 credit hours.
Typically, students entering or continuing professional careers following degree completion would select the comprehensive exam option, while those who plan to enter doctoral programs would elect to complete the thesis.
