About Master’s Program,
The MA in Communication is designed for those who plan to go on to doctoral programs (at OSU or elsewhere), enter research careers in the communication industries, or those who plan to return to the communication industries for a time, but whose eventual goal may include teaching at the college or university level.
The emphasis of this program is to learn the research methods and skills necessary to advance knowledge in the communication field. This program ordinarily takes two years and culminates in the thesis, a major research report in which the student uses communication theory to generate new knowledge about communication.
We offer funding to all students admitted to our MA program.
Master’s Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
Both the master’s and Ph.D. programs begin with an examination of the basic research methods and theories that serve to guide students in selection of a particular area of study and the choice of an adviser. This set of courses provides students with an understanding of contemporary theory and methods that span the broad field of communication.
After gaining a foothold in the current state of the field, students specialize in the area of their choice. Faculty in the Graduate Program of the School of Communication offer particular expertise in one or more specializations:
- Communication Technology
- Health, Environment, Risk, and Science Communication
- Mass Communication
- Political Communication and Public Opinion
Master’s Funding Coverage,
The School of Communication funds every student we admit to our M.A. and Ph.D. programs with either a Graduate Associateship (a teaching assistant or research assistant) or some form of Graduate School Fellowship (University Fellowship or Enrichment Fellowship).
Our Graduate Associate funding packages are very competitive.
- A. studentsare funded for two years ($2,364/month stipend plus tuition waiver for a nine month assistantship)
- D. studentsfor four to five years depending on prior academic experience ($2,483/month stipend plus tuition waiver for a nine month assistantship)
In return for the Graduate Associate package, students are expected to work an average of 20 hours per week as a teaching or research assistant. The tuition waiver covers both Ohio resident as well as non-resident tuition, and covers 100% of student health insurance coverage if needed.
Application Requirement,
Transcripts
Letters of recommendation
Standardized test score
Curriculum vitae/resume
Statement of purpose
Some programs may also require a portfolio, an audition, writing samples, specific tests or a departmental application. Refer to your program for details.
Application Deadline,
Dec 01, 2025
Application Fee,
A nonrefundable $60 fee for U.S. students and $70 for international students
