Graduate

This is an exciting time in our new College. Not only do we have a well established and widely recognized graduate program in Communication Studies (formerly Speech Communication), but we now offer two additional exciting programs in Journalism.

The Department of Communication Studies offers a Master of Science degree in Communication in Human Relations, the only one of its kind in the United States. This program combines the fields of interpersonal and organizational communication to create a unique academic focus. In our rapidly changing electronic age, there is a tremendous need for technically competent professionals with expertise in communication related to social and professional relationships. Graduates are qualified to pursue further study toward advanced academic and professional degrees; or to take advantage of a wide variety of professional opportunities in business and industry, including human resources, training and development, communication, and managerial positions.

The School of Journalism offers two Masters programs: Master of Science in Journalism and Master of Science in Strategic Communication. These programs offer professionals a unique opportunity to advance their knowledge by studying and interacting with journalism scholars and media professionals in a dynamic learning environment. This program is designed to give graduates the distinctive advantage that is necessary to meet the challenges of 21st century media and succeed in today's changing media climate.

Graduate Student Opportunities

Within the College of Communication however, there are more specific opportunities. The College operates an interest group for the American Society for Training and Development, of which both graduate and undergraduate students are members. It is a good chance to network and make connections for current or future jobs. Many grad students write research papers in cooperation with faculty. Research is an integral part of the curriculum, and many papers are presented at national conferences and published nationwide.

TCU has an association for students in any graduate program. This organization, the Graduate Student Senate, represents all graduate students campuswide. GSS sends out a quarterly newsletter about events and opportunities of interest to grad students. This is an excellent way to adjust to life at TCU.

Careers After a TCU Graduate Degree

TCU graduates enter the working world in a variety of careers. Fields such as journalism, public relations, dramatic arts, advertising, electronic media, broadcasting, and more. A communications graduate degree is also useful in related fields like business, education, government, health careers, law, social services, technology, and anything with an international connection.

Furthering Your Education

What do people do with a graduate degree in communications from TCU? Many choose to continue their education at a Ph.D program. Graduate students in comunication are often interested in pursuing a career in college teaching and research. A number of graduates go on to prominent Ph.D programs at other universities.

The National Communication Association (NCA) keeps a ranking of all national universities with Ph.D communication programs. You can find those tables here.