Communication (Accelerated MA)

Program Availability

The Communication Accelerated Master’s is a traditional, on-campus program offered on the Indiana State University campus in Terre Haute, Indiana. The program is open to eligible U.S. and international undergraduate students enrolled in the Communication Bachelor of Arts (BA).

Why Choose the Communication Accelerated Master’s Program at Indiana State?

If your educational and career goals include earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, then the Communication Accelerated Master’s program is an ideal pathway, saving you time and money.

Go Further Faster

As a student in the Communication Bachelor of Arts (BA) program at Indiana State University, you may be eligible to participate in the Communication Accelerated Master’s (4+1) program. This degree option enables you to combine undergraduate and graduate courses and begin your master’s during your senior year of undergraduate study. This dual enrollment pathway enables you to complete your Master of Arts (MA) in Communication one year after completing your Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication. Currently, this accelerated program is offered in two concentrations: Public Relations and Media Studies.

It is important to contact an academic advisor early in your studies to determine your eligibility, discuss program and GPA requirements, and plan your program of study.

Learn from Our Excellent Faculty

Indiana State's instructors assist students in gaining professional development through internships and community engagement. Many have experience in media, public relations, and related communication fields.

With our small classes, you will receive one-on-one assistance and mentorship from professors who will encourage you to participate in volunteer service, advocacy, multimedia productions, and other activities that are practically relevant to your chosen profession.

Get Expert Assistance in Our Learning Studios

Prepare for your career in communication with hands-on experience from day one. Build your skills in our state-of-the-art multimedia production studios, podcast studio and other instructional laboratory spaces.

What You’ll Learn in the Communication Program

The Communication Accelerated Master’s Program is an excellent opportunity to develop your credentials before entering the job market. The program offers you a solid theoretical framework along with opportunities to either learn or expand abilities appropriate for assuming advanced leadership positions. Working with your advisor, you will select a concentration based on your educational and career goals. Concentrations are offered in Public Relations and Media Studies.

An important feature of the program is its emphasis on blending classroom learning with practical experience and cocurricular activities that result in exciting and challenging study. Most courses feature structured, team-based work that will prepare you for the workplace.

Throughout the program, you will have opportunities for field and research experiences.

View graduate-level courses.

Communication (Accelerated M.A.) 

Career Possibilities for Communication Graduates

Our program prepares graduates for leadership roles and careers in the private sector and the public affairs setting, including media and public issues management in business, education, government, and non-profits. Additionally, the master’s program is preparation for a doctoral degree program, a law degree, or an MBA program.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in media and communication occupations is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031.

Accreditation

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.