Communication studies is an academic discipline that deals with processes of human communication and behavior, patterns of communication in interpersonal relationships, social interactions, and communication in different contexts. It is a social science that uses various methods of empirical investigation and critical analysis to develop a body of knowledge that encompasses a range of topics, from face-to-face conversation at a level of individual agency and interaction to social and cultural communication systems at a macro level. Communication studies integrates aspects of both social sciences and the humanities.

Scholars in the field explore a multi-disciplinary array of subjects, including quantitative and qualitative research methods, historical and critical communication theory, cultural studies, media theory, rhetorical criticism, social advocacy, public discourse, and textual analysis. Master’s degree programs in communication studies introduce students to the central concepts and theories of human communication, as well as the research methodologies used to analyze both verbal and non-verbal interactions. Students gain an understanding of the rhetorical strategies behind effective message creation, and study how messages are received and interpreted by various audiences.

Communication studies apply to public relations, marketing, news broadcasts, business, mass media, and global communications. All elements of interpersonal and intercultural communication are investigated in-depth and their abilities to convey or persuade a certain message to a specific audience. A master’s degree in communications and advertising is highly recommended if you plan on pursuing a career as a Creative Director, Art director, Copywriter, Social Media Strategist, or Strategic Planner.

Communication Studies focuses on the production and influence of messages in public, personal, and professional life. With communication being the #1 skill sought by employers, studying it gives students the knowledge needed to excel on any career path. Students can fulfill the general requirements of the major or complete courses in one of three emphasis areas: Communication, health, and well-being; Communication and society; and Communication and media studies.

Here are a few of the classes you could take in a communication studies program:

• Public Speaking
• Organizing Social Change
• Intercultural Communication
• Health Communication
• Conflict and Negotiation
• Theories of Persuasion
• Gender and Communication

In summary, communication studies is a broad field that encompasses the study of human communication and ...