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Comparison of Master of Arts and Master of Science Programs
  The presence of two degree programs enables students to choose a more research skills-intensive track for the Master of Arts degree (consistent with preparation for doctoral studies) or a more course-content intensive track for the Master of Science degree (allowing specialization in several key content areas of communication research & theory consistent with one's career focus).

The primary "difference" between these two tracks is that the Master of Arts track requires the proposal, creation, and defense of a MA thesis, while the Master of Science provides content specialization via additional course work and assesses cumulative matriculation in the written/oral comprehensive exam process. The programs were distinguished with the intention that students seeking advanced scholarship would be best served by learning the process of generating knowledge associated with composing a thesis and that students seeking to master specialized areas of communication in support of career objectives would be best served by completing additional coursework.

Program Comparison Chart

  Requirements for Master of Arts Degree in Communication Requirements for Master of Science Degree in Communication
Purpose To serve students seeking advanced scholarship through the mastery of knowledge and theory and to introduce them to the process of generating knowledge. To help students master pertinent communication knowledge and theory in ways that support future career objectives.
Required Course Work · COM 610 Pro-seminar and Communication Theory

· COM 620 Quantitative Research Methods

· COM 630 Qualitative Communication Research Methods

· COM 640 Communication Ethics and Values

 · COM 610 Pro-seminar and Communication Theory

· COM 620 Quantitative Research Methods

· COM 630 Qualitative Communication Research Methods

· COM 640 Communication Ethics and Values
Concentration Units · Completion of one concentration (3 courses, 9-12 units total) at the 500 level or 600 level. ·  Completion of two concentrations (6 courses, 18-24 units total) 500 level or 600 level.
Practicum ·  None ·  COM 595 Communication Internship (One unit - Required of those students who cannot demonstrate previous completion of a professional practicum)
Comprehensive Examination ·  None · Oral & Written Examinations
Thesis/Project Requirement · COM 690/COM 698 (Six units) leading to the successful completion and oral defense of a graduate thesis or project. ·  None
Total Program Hours ·  31 - 34 units ·  34 - 41 units