Communications, M.S.

As the field of communication has evolved, research-based decision making has become increasingly important. Specifically, communication professionals must be able to acquire and assess relevant information and effectively integrate their analysis into the decision-making process.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Master of Science in Communication is a versatile program that meets the needs of those in the field of communication. Students will enhance their professional effectiveness and their leadership skills, and they will find it beneficial to their career development. Visit the School of Communications website for admissions requirements: gvsu.edu/soc

WHY STUDY COMMUNICATIONS AT GRAND VALLEY?

The program is designed with working professionals in mind. Courses are scheduled during evening hours and offered at Grand Valley's Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.

Taken part time, the program can be completed in 2-3 years, with assistantships available on a competitive basis.

The program has many ties with business, community, and cultural organizations, and has contacts with experts in a variety of areas in communications. These contacts serve as outstanding resources both within the classroom and for internships.

LOCATION & FORMAT

Classes for graduate students in this major meet downtown on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.

Format:

Face To Face

COURSEWORK

A variety of coursework is offered, including:

• System Theory
• Communication Law
• Communication Research
• Communication Management
• Ethics in Professional Communication
• Emerging Communication Technologies

CAREER OPTIONS

The program is designed to enhance effectiveness and leadership skills central to various applications of professional communication, such as:

• Advertising
• Broadcasting
• Communication research
• Health communication
• Integrated communications
• Journalism
• Promotions
• Public relations

MISSION

What is the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences' reason for being?

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is a student-centered and diverse learning community that engages in critical inquiry extending knowledge to enrich and enliven individual and public life.

VISION

What is the desired future for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences?

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences will set a standard of excellence in liberal education. We will prepare our students to be responsible citizens, productive professionals, and lifelong learners with global perspective. We will foster a diverse community of inquiry, discourse, discovery, expression and reflection.

VALUE STATEMENTS

What are the core values for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences that guide our actions and priority-setting?

We value excellence in liberal education facilitated through active student-teacher engagement and academic achievement supported by appropriate class size and a high proportion of permanent faculty. We believe in the value of intellectual inquiry and discourse fostered by an engaged and diverse community of learners which rests upon academic freedom, integrity, collaboration, and collegiality.

Access to a quality education for a broad range of students.

Excellence in a broad range of scholarly and artistic activities supported by appropriate resources.

University and community service valued for its contribution and effectiveness.

Student development as citizens in a democratic society and as members of the global community of the 21st century.