Fairfield University's Master of Arts in Communication emphasizes theory, research, and application to examine the ways humans communicate - verbally and nonverbally - across a variety of levels and contexts. In addition to those interested in pursuing a PhD., an MA degree in communication can lead to advancement in careers throughout business and industry, healthcare, all levels of education, media and public relations, non-profit, government, and social services. In fact, surveys from professionals in all fields consistently rank communication skills as the most important factor in hiring and promotion decisions. As a graduate student, you'll work individually with a faculty advisor to tailor your curriculum to your personal, professional, and academic goals. Throughout the program, you'll be supported by talented, enthusiastic teachers who'll use their academic and professional experience to help start you on your career path.

macom_students09Almost all fields require people with excellent communication skills. Advanced study of communication at Fairfield will help you enhance and/or develop such skills as: Interpersonal communication Leadership Negotiation and conflict management Persuasion Professional and academic writing Public speaking/oral presentation Through Fairfield's M.A. in Communication program, you'll develop skills for more effective communication within organizations, teams, and small groups. You'll also gain a greater understanding of communication institutions as well as communication in different cultural contexts. Finally, you'll sharpen your research skills and learn how to apply communication theory in the context of real-world issues and problems through: Understanding, interpreting, and extending previous research Learning research techniques (e. g., content analysis, survey techniques, experimental techniques, qualitative techniques) Analyzing data Synthesizing all of the above to produce original research Fields that have traditionally sought out those with advanced training in communication include journalism, media industries, public relations and advertising, and online communication. Students with advanced training in theory, research methods, and practical application can consider using their new and enhanced skills in fields such as: Communication consulting Communication education/Preparation for Ph. D. work Communication training Community affairs Consumer research Corporate/organizational communication Educational leadership and communication Environmental communication Health communication Human resources Management leadership and training Mediation Non-profit communication Public information Public opinion research Sales and sales training Social and human services Strategic communication Learn more about how the University's Career Planning Center can support your post-graduate goals, and how Fairfield's tight-knit alumni network can build career and mentoring opportunities that last a lifetime.