Selected Educational Outcomes

  1. Students will conduct discipline-appropriate primary and secondary theoretically sound research.
  2. Students will demonstrate competency in the knowledge of general communication theory and, more specifically, interpersonal, organizational, conflict resolution, and intercultural communication theories.
  3. Students will demonstrate competency in the discipline-appropriate use of qualitative and quantitative research methods.
  4. Students will demonstrate competency in the use of technologies appropriate to the discipline.
  5. Students will demonstrate competency in oral and written communication through courses appropriate to the audience, context, and discipline.

Selected Outcome Assessments

  1. Students will demonstrate competency in primary and secondary research in courses requiring such assignments, as well as in theses, project capstones, and professional presentations.
  2. Students will demonstrate theoretical knowledge in comprehensive examinations, projects, and/or theses and classwork.
  3. Students will demonstrate mastery of research methods in their classwork.
  4. Students will demonstrate the ability to utilize appropriate technologies in a variety of courses requiring projects and presentations.
  5. Students will demonstrate competency in oral and written communication in courses, projects, theses, and/or professional settings.

Prior to admission to any graduate program at Valdosta State University, applicants must first submit a completed application to the Graduate School. Application materials are available on the Graduate School website. To be considered for your preferred term, all required materials must be received by the Graduate School no later than the close of business on the deadline. It is the responsibility of the applicant to allow adequate time for document submission and to ensure receipt of documents.

Admission Deadlines

  • Fall Admission Deadline: July 15
  • Spring Admission Deadline: November 15
  • Summer Admission Deadline: April 15

Go to the Graduate School website and click on Our Programs, then click on the Master of Arts in Communication Program for information on:

  • Specific M.A.C. Program Admission Requirements
  • M.A.C. Program Retention, Dismissal, and Readmission Policies
  • M.A.C. Program Graduation Requirements

To Apply Online, click here. 

Requirements for the Master of Arts in Communication Degree

Core Courses12
MAIC 5000
Communication Theory
MAIC 5050
Mass Communication Theory
MAIC 7100
Quantitative Research Methods in Communication
MAIC 7200
Qualitative Research Methods in Communication
Emphasis Courses12
Any 6000- or 7000-level MAIC courses
Select one of the options from the following:6
Thesis/Project Option: MAIC 7999
Non-thesis option (Requires written and oral examinations over all courses in the degree): MAIC 7400 OR electives outside the department, selected with approval of advisor
Total hours required for the degree30