Ohio University offers an online Master of Arts in Organizational Communication through its
School of Communications Studies (which is part of the Scripps College of Communication). The degree program can be completed fully online as students are not required to make any visits to campus. Ohio University eCampus, which supports the School of Communication Studies in managing the program, uses a variety of online and distance learning technologies, including the Blackboard Learn learning management system, to facilitate student learning. Students can participate in online class projects and discussions, hold video conferences with instructors, access course materials, submit assignments, and more.
The Master of Arts in Organizational Communication requires 30 credits to graduate and can be completed in approximately 15 months (two classes per semester) to 24 months (one class per semester). The degree is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their knowledge of the communication field, in particular decision making, problem solving, and strategic planning and organization. The curriculum emphasizes a well-rounded approach to theory and practice, introducing students to advanced concepts in measurement methodologies, communicative practices, instructional training, cross-cultural communication, and more.
The curriculum is divided between core coursework (8 credits), electives (16 credits) and capstone experience (6 credits). The first year of the graduate program familiarizes students with communication theory and research methodologies. The two-class core curriculum is comprised of Communicative Practices in Organizations and Measurement Methodology in Communication. Through these courses, students explore the connection between organizational structure, research, communication, and change, while also learning how to conduct theoretical and methodological analyses of organizational structure and communication. They also learn measurement principles, techniques, and evaluation processes used in the organizational communication field.
After their core classes, students must also complete a four-class sequence of additional courses that are approved by the program administrator. These courses vary according to the student’s interest and professional goals. Example courses include Communication and Information Diffusion, Cross-Cultural Communication, Instructional Training & Development in Communication, Communication in Social Conflict, and Gender and Communication. Through these classes, students learn about the principles and processes underpinning organizational development, theories of instructional design, data analysis and data-informed communication strategy, communication’s relationship to cultures and language, and communication tactics for managing conflict in a variety of social and organizational situations. The program culminates with a capstone experience, allowing students to select comprehensive examinations, an applied project, or a master’s thesis.
Ohio University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Online Master of Arts in Organizational Communication
Overview
Department: Scripps College of Communication, School of Communication Studies
Websites: Department
and Program
Program Format
Structure: Online program with no required campus visits
Instruction Methods: Program uses asynchronous instruction - students can interact with instructors through video conferencing
Campus Visits Required: No
Program Length: Program can be completed in 15 months (2 courses per semester) to 2 years (1 course per semester)
Curriculum and Graduation Requirements
Thesis Required: No
Capstone Options: Capstone project: comprehensive exam, applied research project, or thesis (students choose one option)
Credits Required: 30 credits (6 courses)
Example Courses: Communicative Practices in Organizations; Measurement Methodology in Communication; Communication and Information Diffusion; Instructional Training & Development in Communication; Cross-Cultural Communication; Communication in Social Conflict; Gender and Communication
Application Requirements
Degree Required: Bachelor's degree
GPA Requirements: Minimum GPA 3.0 (students with a GPA lower than 3.0 need to take the GRE)
Testing Requirements: GRE not required if GPA 3.0 or greater, if GPA below 3.0 GRE is required
Start Dates: Fall, Spring and Summer admission
Tuition Costs
Estimated Tuition*: ~$15,750 + fees (in-state); ~$16,320 + fees (out-of-state)
Cost per Credit Hour: $525 per credit hour (in-state); $544 per credit hour (out-of-state)
State Authorizations: Program accepts students from all 50 states
