Communication program

Mission

The Department of Communication at Pittsburg State University provides an integrated program of preparation for careers in strategic communication, multimedia journalism, media production, human communication, theatre, and communication education. The activities and programs uniquely available from the department reflect a multicultural and interdisciplinary perspective commensurate with the goals of a liberal education for students. The same unique activities and programs provide services for the University, the community and the region. The department is committed to promoting the ideals of freedom of expression, and at the same time developing an understanding in our students of the significance of responsible communication in society. The department fully endorses an active approach to learning.

Vision

It is the vision of the Department of Communication to provide a high quality, individualized education that prepares our students for a professional life in Communication and its cognate disciplines. We envision our students developing the ability to understand and critically analyze their worlds to provide a base for life-long learning. Our vision includes support for ongoing contributions to our discipline and to the citizens of the region from our faculty and students. We seek managed growth consistent with the support provided by the University.

Graduate Studies

The Master of Arts Degree with a Major in Communication is designed to prepare graduate students for professional and academic careers. It also encourages thoughtful and continuing study in subjects of the student's interest. Working with an advisor, a master's degree student in communication can design a program to match an individual's career choice. Qualified candidates may be eligible for assistantships, which provide a tuition waiver and a graduate teaching stipend.

Learn about Graduate Degrees and Programs

• Communication Graduate Manual (PDF)

• Application for Graduate Assistantship (PDF)

Career Opportunities

Students who earn a Master of Arts Degree with a Major in Communication will gain skills in problem-solving, analysis, research methods, and scholarly writing. Graduates find employment as:

• University Professors
• Community College or High School Instructors
• College and High School Administrators
• Journalists
• Public Relations Consultants
• Television Production Directors
• Business Managers

Apply Online

Internships

Experiential learning is at the heart of a communication degree, and there are many ways in which students can gain practical experience in their fields. In fact, communication majors are required to demonstrate applied knowledge in their senior portfolio. Though practical experience can be gained through class projects, independent studies, and student organizations, one of the best ways to gain practical experience is through an internship. Internships provide experience and insight into a student's chosen area. They can be a means of developing contacts and the beginning of a professional network.

In the Department of Communication, the COMM 399 Communication Career Development class is designed to help students learn the skills, such as resume development and letter writing, necessary to find and apply for internships. Students are also introduced to the resources in the Office of Career Development. Internship opportunities are listed on department bulletin boards and are posted on the department’s Facebook page. Academic advisors can also be helpful in directing a student toward an internship opportunity. Up to 3.0 hours of academic credit can be earned for an internship by enrolling in COMM 690. Visit the link below to find out more about enrolling for internship credit. 

Scholarships

Every year, the Department of Communication awards over $30,000 in scholarships to communication majors. The majority of department scholarships are earned scholarships, meaning they are awarded based upon academic performance and/or participation while at Pittsburg State University per criteria designated by the scholarship donor. There are some scholarships directed toward incoming freshmen. Scholarships are awarded in every emphasis area and also for overall achievement in the department.

It is important to note that scholarships cannot be awarded unless the student has applied for financial assistance. Application for Financial Assistance must be completed and submitted online through the PSU Financial Assistance website, not the department. We encourage all students to complete and submit an online application for PSU Financial Assistance. All applications for financial assistance must be submitted by FEBRUARY 1 for the following academic year.

Inquiries only about departmental scholarships can be directed to the Department of Communication at 620-235-4716 or at the office, 215 Grubbs Hall.