Communication (M.A.)
About
The MA program combines teaching and research in a curriculum that prepares students for scholarly inquiry or work outside the academy. We emphasize a broad understanding of historical and contemporary theories; the research skills necessary to explore and contribute to knowledge; and the ability to apply knowledge beyond the classroom in public and private organizations. Choose between concentrations in communication or media studies.
Program Highlights
Requirements
Review and selection of students for the upcoming academic year occurs between mid-January and mid-April. If you wish to receive first-round consideration for the coming year, you are advised to have your application complete by January 15th. Your application will be complete when it contains:
- A completed Graduate School application
- Transcripts of completed undergraduate work
- Letters of recommendation from three persons familiar with your academic record (e.g., professor, supervisor, or teaching assistant)
- A report of your TOEFL score (if your undergraduate coursework was not conducted in English)
- An academic writing sample (e.g., a research paper written for a class, an excerpt of an undergraduate thesis)
Submission of official GRE scores is optional.
You are responsible for monitoring the completion of your application in a timely manner. Please contact the graduate coordinator listed below with any questions.
Here are some additional helpful resources that will make applying to UMaine’s graduate programs easy!
Program Learning Outcomes
At a Glance
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
Communication & Journalism
Degree Level
Master’s Degree
Degree Earned
Master of Arts in Communication
Concentrations
- Communication
- Media Studies
Mode of Study
In-Person
Application Deadline
Review of applications begins on January 15, with priority for funding given to complete applications received by this date.
Tests Required
TOEFL if undergrad coursework not conducted in English
Accelerated Pathway Available?
No
Featured Courses
CMJ 606
Rhetorical Theory: Critical Tradition
Survey of basic issues in and the contributions of major theorists in the critical tradition of the philosophy of rhetoric.
CMJ 525
Propaganda and Political Communication
Survey of theory and practice of propaganda and political communication, with a historical focus on major figures in the field.
CMJ 698
Contemporary Issues in Human Communication
Selected contemporary research topics on speech, language, and communication behavior. Topics vary.
Funding Your Degree
While we are often able to fund our MA students with Graduate Teaching Assistantships, we give priority to our PhD students. Funding is offered on a one-year basis that is renewable for up to two years (and sometimes longer) if adequate progress is made toward the degree.
The decision to pursue graduate education is an important one. The UMaine Graduate School is dedicated to helping you plan tailored funding strategies, ensuring that both prospective and current students have the personalized support they need to invest in their future. While some of the most common methods of funding your graduate program are through assistantships, fellowships, or scholarships, there are a variety of avenues to explore.
