Grand Valley State University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS)
Communications, M.S.
Allendale, USA
MSc
DURATION
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2026
STUDY FORMAT
Key Summary
About: The Master of Science in Communication at Grand Valley prepares students for research-based decision making in communication. Coursework covers systems theory, communication law, communication research, communication management, ethics, and emerging communication technologies, with face-to-face classes at the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.
Taken part-time, the programme can be completed in 2–3 years, with assistantships available on a competitive basis and evening scheduling for working professionals.
Career Outcomes: Graduates move into roles in advertising, broadcasting, communication research, health communication, integrated communications, journalism, public relations, and related roles in strategic communication, media relations, corporate communication, digital media, and nonprofit communications.
As the field of communication has evolved, research-based decision making has become increasingly important. Specifically, communication professionals must be able to acquire and assess relevant information and effectively integrate their analysis into the decision-making process.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Master of Science in Communication is a versatile program that meets the needs of those in the field of communication. Students will enhance their professional effectiveness and their leadership skills, and they will find it beneficial to their career development. Visit the School of Communications website for admissions requirements: gvsu.edu/soc
WHY STUDY COMMUNICATIONS AT GRAND VALLEY?
The program is designed with working professionals in mind. Courses are scheduled during evening hours and offered at Grand Valley's Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.
Taken part time, the program can be completed in 2-3 years, with assistantships available on a competitive basis.
The program has many ties with business, community, and cultural organizations, and has contacts with experts in a variety of areas in communications. These contacts serve as outstanding resources both within the classroom and for internships.
LOCATION & FORMAT
Classes for graduate students in this major meet downtown on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.
Format:
Face To Face
COURSEWORK
A variety of coursework is offered, including:
- System Theory
- Communication Law
- Communication Research
- Communication Management
- Ethics in Professional Communication
- Emerging Communication Technologies
CAREER OPTIONS
The program is designed to enhance effectiveness and leadership skills central to various applications of professional communication, such as:
- Advertising
- Broadcasting
- Communication research
- Health communication
- Integrated communications
- Journalism
- Promotions
- Public relations
