QS Rank:

129

Purdue University West Lafayette

Indiana
,United States

Program Name
MA in Communication
Overview

The Master of Arts in Communication at Purdue University West Lafayette is an exceptional program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted field of communication. This MA in Communication covers various aspects, including interpersonal communication, organizational communication, media studies, and rhetoric, allowing students to develop critical thinking skills and effective communication techniques. As a part of the College of Liberal Arts, this program emphasizes both theoretical and practical approaches to communication, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the industry.
With a curriculum that integrates traditional academic study with innovative, hands-on learning experiences, the program is meticulously curated to foster a deeper understanding of contemporary communication challenges. Students will engage in a rich array of courses such as Communication Theory, Media Production, and Strategic Communication, among others. Additionally, the program promotes a collaborative learning environment through group projects, case studies, and real-world scenarios, enabling students to apply their knowledge effectively.
The faculty comprises esteemed scholars and professionals with extensive experience in various communication disciplines. Their diverse backgrounds not only enrich the classroom experience but also provide students with invaluable insights into current trends and practices in the field. Furthermore, professors at Purdue employ innovative teaching methodologies that encourage active participation and critical analysis, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of the communication sector.
Purdue University West Lafayette takes pride in providing students with numerous research opportunities and resources to further enhance their educational experience. Students can engage in cutting-edge research projects within state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, often collaborating with faculty on groundbreaking studies. Resources such as the Purdue University Research Foundation and access to extensive media and communication databases support students' research endeavors. These opportunities not only deepen their knowledge but also enhance their resumes for future job prospects.
Internship possibilities are abundant in this program, thanks to Purdue's strong connections with industry leaders and organizations. The university's location in Indiana, a hub for several corporate headquarters and communication firms, provides students with access to numerous internship opportunities across various sectors. These internships are vital for gaining practical experience and networking, significantly improving graduates' employability in the competitive job market. The program also features career counseling services that assist students in identifying suitable career pathways tailored to their interests and aspirations.
Graduates of the MA in Communication from Purdue University West Lafayette often find themselves in high-demand roles in diverse sectors. Possible career pathways include positions in public relations, corporate communication, marketing, media production, and academia. Alumni have successfully secured roles as communication specialists, marketing managers, media analysts, and public affairs officers, thanks to the program's rigorous training and comprehensive curriculum. Testimonials from alumni highlight the program's effectiveness in equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in their chosen professions.
The unique features of this program set it apart from others, making it a compelling choice for aspiring communication professionals. With a strong emphasis on practical application and research, students leave Purdue with a solid foundation and an expansive professional network. The program also actively promotes diversity and inclusion, attracting a vibrant community of students from various backgrounds, which enriches the learning experience and fosters global perspectives on communication.
Why Study Communication at Purdue University West Lafayette
- A popular choice for international students, fostering a diverse and inclusive community with a rich cultural exchange.
- Learn from faculty members who are leaders in their fields and gain hands-on research experience as their assistants.
- Access to cutting-edge labs and resources to support innovative research and project work.
- Excellent job placement rates, with dedicated career services to guide students post-graduation.
- Opportunities for networking through internships and connections with industry leaders.
The admission requirements for the MA in Communication program include a completed application form, a $75 application fee, and the submission of standardized test scores, which may include IELTS or TOEFL results for international applicants. Required English language proficiency scores are set at a minimum of 8.0 on the IELTS or 80 on the TOEFL, indicating a strong command of the English language necessary for graduate-level study.
Prospective students are encouraged to explore the extensive resources available through the Purdue University Graduate School and to reach out for additional information regarding specific application requirements or any questions about the program.
In summary, the Master of Arts in Communication at Purdue University West Lafayette stands as a premier program that not only offers a robust academic foundation but also practical skills essential for success in the communication field. With its emphasis on research, industry engagement, and a diverse student body, this program prepares graduates to excel and make significant contributions in their chosen careers.

Duration
24 Months
Ranking
#140
US World and News Report
#127
The World University Rankings
#129
QS World University Rankings
Class Profile
Diversity
Others:
16%International:
9%Illinois:
11%Indiana:
48%Ohio:
8%Michigan:
7%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
8
TOEFL
80
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 75
Application Deadlines
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$29,403 / year
FAQs
The admission requirements for the MA in Communication program at Purdue University West Lafayette include:
- A completed application form.
- A $75 application fee.
- Submission of standardized test scores, which may include IELTS or TOEFL results for international applicants.
For English language proficiency, applicants are required to achieve a minimum score of 8.0 on the IELTS or 80 on the TOEFL. These scores indicate a strong command of the English language necessary for graduate-level study.
The curriculum of the MA in Communication at Purdue University West Lafayette is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of communication. It covers:
- Interpersonal communication
- Organizational communication
- Media studies
- Rhetoric
Students will engage in courses such as Communication Theory, Media Production, and Strategic Communication, among others. The program emphasizes both theoretical and practical approaches to communication, preparing students for diverse careers in the industry.
The MA in Communication program at Purdue emphasizes innovative, hands-on learning experiences. This is achieved through:
- Collaborative learning environments with group projects.
- Case studies that reflect real-world scenarios.
- Opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects.
These experiences enable students to apply their knowledge effectively and prepare them to tackle contemporary communication challenges.
The MA in Communication program offers numerous internship possibilities, thanks to Purdue's strong connections with industry leaders and organizations. The university's strategic location in Indiana, a hub for several corporate headquarters and communication firms, provides students access to various internship opportunities across sectors. These internships are crucial for gaining practical experience, networking, and significantly improving graduates' employability in the competitive job market.
Graduates of the MA in Communication from Purdue University West Lafayette often find themselves in high-demand roles across diverse sectors. Possible career pathways include:
- Public relations
- Corporate communication
- Marketing
- Media production
- Academia
Alumni have secured positions such as communication specialists, marketing managers, media analysts, and public affairs officers, thanks to the program's rigorous training and comprehensive curriculum.
Professors at Purdue University West Lafayette utilize innovative teaching methodologies that encourage:
- Active participation from students.
- Critical analysis of communication topics.
This approach ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of the communication sector and stay updated with current trends and practices in the field.
The Master of Arts in Communication at Purdue University West Lafayette has several unique features, including:
- A strong emphasis on practical application and research.
- Access to cutting-edge labs and resources for innovative research.
- Active promotion of diversity and inclusion within the student body.
- Excellent job placement rates with dedicated career services.
These aspects help students build a solid foundation and expand their professional network, making the program compelling for aspiring communication professionals.
Purdue University provides numerous research opportunities and resources to enhance the educational experience of MA in Communication students. Students can:
- Engage in cutting-edge research projects.
- Collaborate with faculty on groundbreaking studies.
Additionally, resources such as the Purdue University Research Foundation and access to extensive media and communication databases support students' research endeavors, deepening their knowledge and enhancing their resumes for future job prospects.
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