Communications
(Master of Arts)

The Master of Arts in Communications is a part-time, evening program that integrates theory and practice in professional fields such as journalism and public relations. Students explore the issues and responsibilities of professionals in the communications industry and perform research that has practical application in the field.

The Saint Rose Difference
The graduate program in Communications enables students to gain a critical perspective of their field as they complete writing and research projects. Students may be eligible to earn credit for prior experience, easing professional transitions and allowing individuals to advance within their present careers.

In this program students have the option of individual creativity in choosing a final project or thesis, including projects in public relations, journalism, non-fiction writing, videography, photojournalism, business/corporate communications, or in-depth research studies in an aspect of communications. While completing the final projects, students work with a faculty project director and faculty readers who guide the students and make recommendations as the students proceed.

Research
The Communications program has a required research component through which students prepare projects or theses relevant to their particular fields. Most research is done on an individual basis outside the classroom, under the direction and observation of the faculty.

Field Experience
Communications graduate students may apply for a field experience as a component of the degree program. Field experience credit is granted when appropriate for the student, and is managed by the graduate coordinator.

Career Opportunities
Students with a master's degree in Communications find employment in the public or private sectors, as advertising account executives, public relations writers or managers, broadcast reporters or anchors, corporate communications editors, journalists, magazine writers, or media buyers. Most students in the program are already employed within the field, and use this program to redirect their careers or to enhance their writing and performance.

Facilities
The Journalism Lab features 12 updated computers with the latest in industry-specific software. Students may also gain hands-on experience in the College's full-scale television studio, featuring four custom-designed sets, state-of-the-art studio and field cameras, digital non-linear audio, and a computer-based graphics system.

The College's Neil Hellman Library is an excellent resource for students within this program, especially as they conduct their research projects. The inter-library loan services provide access to materials that might otherwise remain inaccessible, and the helpful and knowledgeable staff is able to assist with any type of research. In addition, the library offers several databases of information that encompass a variety of topics and issues, Internet and wireless access, and laptop computers for use within the building.

Admission Requirements

• A completed Saint Rose Graduate School Application;
• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution;
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended;
• An undergraduate grade point average of 3.0;
• Two writing samples appropriate to the field are required, and additional writing assignments and other evidence of competence or potential in the field may be requested as determined by department faculty; and
• Two letters of recommendations from faculty or professional sources. Letters must arrive in a signed and sealed envelop.

Deadlines:
While Saint Rose Graduate School applications may be obtained from Graduate and Continuing Education Admissions, we encourage applicants to use our convenient
online application.

June 1:
Preferred Deadline for Fall Admission

October 15:
Preferred Deadline for Spring Admission

March 15:
Preferred Deadline for Summer Admission

There is no guarantee that applications received after deadlines can be reviewed in a timely enough manner to ensure matriculation and registration for the upcoming term.

Financial Aid Opportunities The College of Saint Rose offers a variety of academic and some need-based scholarships for graduate students. Interested students should contact Graduate and Continuing Education Admissions for specific details. Academic, Cultural Diversity & International Scholarships Application deadline: June 30 for Fall October 30 for Spring Graduate Assistantships Application deadline: June 1 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Application deadline: May 1 Deferred Payment Plan Employer Assistance Internship in Special Education A full-year paid internship opportunity is available for those applicants who possess provisional or initial certification in elementary, secondary, or special education. We understand that earning an advanced degree is a serious investment. That's why we invite you to tour our campus and speak with an admissions counselor.

Gary McLouth, Ph.D., University at Albany, SUNY. Expertise: Creative and communications writing; journalism and non-fiction prose; writing for newspaper, magazine, and television

Mary Alice Molgard, M.S., Illinois State University.
Expertise: Broadcast Law; Broadcast Writing; Film; Ethics in Communication

Karen McGrath, Ph.D., Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. Expertise: Human Communication in Interpersonal and Intercultural Situations; Influence of Mass Media on Cultural, Social, and Gender Constructs