MA in Communication
Emphasizing the social scientific study of the communication process
The Master of Arts (MA) program in Communication at the University at Buffalo is designed to prepare students for doctoral study or advanced professional work in communication processes. The program emphasizes the social scientific study of communication, with coursework focused on communication theory and research methodologies.
Learn about:
- Broad Theoretical Knowledge: Gain a comprehensive understanding of communication theories across multiple contexts.
- Research Methodology Expertise: Build strong skills in designing, conducting, and analyzing communication research.
- Practical Application: Apply communication theory and research methods to real-world challenges and professional settings.
- Personalized Academic Growth: Study in a supportive environment that prioritizes your individual academic and career goals.
In this two-year Master's program, you’ll focus on contemporary issues aligned with faculty research expertise instead of following traditional “tracks.” Areas of study include:
- Misinformation and Society: Mass media, morality and extremism
- Digital and Social Media: Technology and well-being, social networks and computational research
- Media Representations and Social Influence: Media effects, narrative persuasion and entertainment-education
- Health Communication: Risk analysis, innovative interventions and program evaluation
- Political Communication: Political polarization and mediated public discourse
- Nonverbal Communication: Facial expressions and deception
To earn your MA in Communication in two years, you must complete:
- 36 total credit hours
- At least 24 credits must be in Communication courses.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA across all graduate coursework.
- Master’s Thesis: Successful completion of an original research thesis.
Required Core Courses (18 credits)
- Proseminar in Communication | 3 Credits
- Research Methods | 3 Credits
- Communication Theories | 3 Credits
- Applied Theory-Testing | 3 Credits
- Statistics I | 3 Credits
- Statistics II | 3 Credits
Communication Electives (18 credits)
- Choose from all graduate-level COM Courses with a minimum of 9 required within the COM department.
- Limit of 11 credits from outside of the COM department.
Project or Thesis
Choose from Project or Thesis.
- Independent Study | 1-6 Credits
- Thesis Guidance 1-2 Credits (Maximum 3 credits)
Whether you're preparing for a PhD or launching a creative career, UB’s MA in Communication gives you the foundation — and the freedom — to shape your future.
My bachelor’s degree isn’t in communication. May I still apply?
Yes. We welcome students from diverse backgrounds including psychology, sociology, education, public health and political science.
What are the language requirements for international applicants?
Please consult UB’s international admissions criteria for IELTS, PTE or TOEFL score requirements.
How long does it take to earn the MA degree?
Typically 2 years to complete 36 required credits.
How much does it cost?
Please visit the UB Financial Aid Cost and Attendance page for the latest information.
Can I complete the master’s degree online?
No. While some courses may occasionally be offered online, the MA program is primarily in-person.
What skills will I gain?
You’ll master communication theory, empirical research methods, statistical analysis and topics including misinformation, social media, health communication, political discourse and nonverbal behavior.
What do most graduates do after earning the MA?
Many continue into PhD programs, research-oriented industry jobs or roles leveraging their academic and analytical skills. Learn about our PhD in Communication program and careers in Communication.
For more information, please reach out!
