FUTURE STUDENTS
Overview
The purpose of the Master of Science Degree in Communication is to provide graduate-level expertise for solving problems in modern organizations and social systems from a communication perspective. "Modern organization" includes corporate, governmental, and not-for-profit agencies in which people organize and interact to meet common goals. By their very nature, all organizations depend upon complex communication functions for effective operation. All depend particularly upon formal and informal, and increasingly technologically based, communication networks. What is likely to distinguish the 21st century from the 20th is the unprecedented degree to which communication and information technology enable the creation of active networks linking individuals, functions, and organizations that exchange messages and data on a regular basis
The program addresses issues concerned with interpersonal, relational, and technologically mediated communication systems essential to modern, networked organizations and societies. Graduates will acquire advanced-level expertise in communication theory, research, and applied communication that will improve processes and enhance outcomes within and across diverse social systems, and that will prepare them for higher-level managerial positions in their professions.
There are two types of students in NC State’s master of communication program. One is the local professional who is attending school part-time in order to improve at a current job or gain the skills to advance in a career. The second is the full-time student who progresses through the program in two years and is back in the job market or entering a doctoral program after graduation. Seasoned professionals join our program to get state-of-the-art knowledge about technological and theoretical advancements in communication, and other students enroll to get that all-important expertise for their first few jobs. We are proud of the variety of professional and educational backgrounds of our students.
In addition, our students have diverse personal backgrounds that contribute to friendships and to our intellectual atmosphere. International students are welcomed for the experiences and new ideas they
bring to the classroom. Student surveys repeatedly remark on the congenial, warm organizational culture of the Department of Communication.
Application Deadline |
U.S. Students
Fall February 1
Spring November 1
International Students
Fall February 1
Spring July 15 |
Graduates of our programs take two paths after completing their master’s
in communication. Some continue in their current jobs or land new
positions in communication. Others enter doctoral programs.
The Department of Communication admits master’s students for the fall
and spring semesters.
Students interested in teaching assistantships should apply for fall semester. Please note that NC State University’s Graduate School sets earlier deadlines for international students. The application file must be complete before the admissions committee will review it.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
- Official transcripts with an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 (B)
- GRE exam with scores of 500 verbal, 500 quantitative, and at least 4.0 analytical writing.
- A personal statement that clarifies how NC State’s graduate program can help you achieve your future goals.
- Three letters of recommendation
- Writing samples are encouraged (either academic or professional) and a resume or curriculum vitae.
Additional Documents - International Student Only
- The TOEFL exam...more
- If accepted into the program, a Financial Certification and an official bank statement.
Students who do not make the NC State GPA minimum or whose GRE scores are low will need to demonstrate other strengths in their application package that compensate for these factors.
If you have further questions regarding your application please email Sandra Grissom.
Financial Aid
We encourage all of our students to explore a variety of financial aid options. Students interested in full-time study may wish to apply for a teaching assistantship, which normally helps support two full years of study and includes tuition and health insurance. Depending on faculty research funding, short-term research assistantships may also be available...more
International Information
See the Office of International Affairs for more information on international activities and requirements.
The Office of International Services assists students with immigration procedures and NC State Policies. |
