Graduate Programs in Communications Studies

Master of Communication Studies (MCS)

Masters of Arts (MA)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The graduate program in Communications Studies was established in 1982 and for the first decade and a half focused almost exclusively on professionally oriented issues in Communications including such topics as: organizational communications, cultural industries development, and communications law and policy.   In the later 1990's the program developed a second focus in the social context of technology.  At the time, this entailed a focus on information and communications technology. Subsequently, the definition has been broadened to include any variety of technology including biotechnology and genomics. Topics of interest include, innovation drivers, community participation, and the experience of users.   More recently, the program is developing a third area of research focus around media studies - which involves not simply communications media such as broadcasting but other forms of contemporary media including film and new media at large (e.g., social networking, blogging, gaming).

Graduates of any one of these three programs are prepared for a variety of career paths.  Some of the options include: advancement within a current organization; moving sideways into a new organizational setting; or continuing on an academic path.  Organizational settings include: post-secondary institutions, government ministries, news media, cultural industries, and non-governmental (not-for-profit) agencies.

Master of Communications Studies (MCS)

The Master of Communications Studies is intended for individuals who have had previous work experience in a communications or related field and who are looking for professional development in a research environment that integrates theoretical and practical approaches to problem solving. The program of studies requires students to take 3 core and 5 elective courses and to construct a major research project. The program can be completed either on a full-time basis within the scope of 2-4 years or on a part-time basis within a 6 year window.

MCS program requirements and application process  >>MORE

Master of Arts (MA) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Master of Arts and the Doctor of Philosophy are academic research oriented degree programs. Both programs require students to take 3 core courses, 3 electives, to complete a thesis, and to defend it orally.  The PhD programs also involve the completion of a candidacy examination.  Both programs can support in-depth research in the areas of the social context of technology and media studies.  Students can also undertake thesis-based research in other areas related to the specific expertise of individual faculty members.

If you would like more information, email us at gradprog@ucalgary.ca

Faculty research expertise 
Graduate courses 
MA program requirements and application process  
PhD program requirements and application process