COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communication Studies with a specialization in Deliberative Practices is a graduate program designed to develop advanced understanding of dialogue, discussion, and decision-making in public and civic contexts. This specialization focuses on how people engage in structured communication to solve problems, make collective decisions, and participate in democratic processes. It is intended for students who are interested in the role of communication in public life, policy discussions, and community engagement.The program emphasizes the study of Deliberative Practices as its central area of focus. Students explore how individuals and groups use communication to deliberate on important social, political, and cultural issues. This includes learning about theories of public discourse, civic engagement, argumentation, and participatory decision-making. The goal is to understand how effective communication can contribute to more informed, inclusive, and democratic outcomes in society.Graduate students in this specialization are encouraged to engage deeply with both theoretical frameworks and practical applications. They develop skills in critical analysis, research, and facilitation of dialogue processes, which are valuable in academic, governmental, nonprofit, and community-based settings. The program also provides opportunities for students to participate in research or assistantship positions, depending on availability and departmental coordination.Students interested in employment opportunities such as graduate teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or other campus positions are advised to consult their academic advisor or departmental graduate coordinator for application procedures. Financial and academic support resources may be available through the department and university channels.Overall, the M.A. in Communication Studies – Deliberative Practices specialization prepares students to become skilled communicators and facilitators of public dialogue. It equips them with the knowledge and tools needed to support meaningful civic engagement and to contribute to constructive decision-making processes in society.