COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master’s program in Mass Communications requires a total of 30 units and is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge, practical skills, and professional experience in modern media and communication fields. The program combines core coursework, elective study, and a culminating project experience to prepare students for careers in journalism, digital media, public relations, advertising, and related industries.The core component consists of 15 units. Students complete five required courses: Media and Social Issues, New Media Visionaries, Advanced User Experience, Web Design and Development, and Mass Communications Research. These courses build a strong foundation in understanding media theory, digital communication tools, user-centered design, and research methods. They also help students develop critical thinking skills and technical expertise needed in today’s evolving media environment, including web technologies and audience analysis.In addition to core requirements, students complete 9 units of electives. These electives are chosen in consultation with a graduate advisor and may include 100- or 200-level courses from the School of Journalism and Mass Communications or other departments. This flexibility allows students to tailor their academic experience according to their specific career goals and interests, such as digital media production, strategic communication, or interactive media design.The program’s culminating experience consists of 6 units under Plan B (project option). Students complete a two-part master’s project sequence: Master’s Project I followed by Master’s Project II in consecutive semesters. This project allows students to apply their academic learning to a professional-level media or communication project, demonstrating practical skills, research ability, and creative problem-solving.Overall, the program is structured to integrate theory, research, and applied practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for advanced roles in the communications industry or further professional development in media-related fields.