More and more students are discovering the value of advanced
professional study. This is mirrored in the Department of
Communication's master's program, which contains more master's
students than almost any other department. Graduate study is not
only helpful for secondary school teachers who wish to enhance
their education for higher salary and advancement; many
communication-related industries find a graduate degree a useful
and sometimes indispensable resource for staff. This is especially
true in management positions.
Of course, students also continue work at the master's level to
prepare for doctoral study. The department offers preparation for
that goal, and for communication professionals as well. About 15
percent of our master's degree students continue in a Ph.D.
program, either at NDSU or elsewhere.
Many students considering Ph.D.-level study choose the thesis
option: students are required to write a thesis demonstrating a
high level of quantitative or qualitative research knowledge. Some
students choose a non-thesis option by taking another class and
writing an in-depth essay or other project as agreed upon by the
department and the student's major advisor. Students may pursue an
M.A. or an M.S.
Requirements are tailored to fit each student's individual needs.
Students may take graduate course work in other disciplines to
enhance their graduate program of study. Interdisciplinary
approaches to research are encouraged.
For more information on the master's program, contact Dr. Ross Collins.