Master of Arts in Professional Communication (MAPC)

The Master of Arts in Professional Communication (MAPC) introduces students to professional communication principles needed for success in a variety of fields and industries. Through a blend of theory and practice the program is designed for anyone wishing to develop their communication skills and knowledge. Students will gain experience with masterful presentation techniques, theories of organizational communication, crisis communication, conflict management, and the effective use and evaluation of visuals and media. 

The program prepares students with training in oral, written, and visual communication skills required of communication practitioners in a variety of 21st century fields. 

Our goal in developing the Master of Arts program in Professional Communication centers on creating an inspiring, competitive, and succinct professional program in communication rooted in real-world examples, cases, and applications. This program provides students with a diverse set of communication skills intended for large and small groups. Specific areas of study include persuasion, ethics, professional writing, intercultural studies, visual rhetoric, data presentation and synthesis, effective integration of digital communication tools, messaging strategy, negotiation and conflict management, and organizational communication and leadership. 

Degree Requirements

Core Courses

MAPC Core Courses (20 credits, all required):
MAPC 601: Leadership and Professional Communication(4 crs.)
MAPC 602: Global Communication Design (4 crs.)
MAPC 603: Organizational and Strategic Communication (4 crs.)
MAPC 604: Conflict Resolution (4 crs.)
MAPC 605: Data Analytics and Research Strategies (4 crs.)

Elective Courses

MAPC Electives (8 credits from the following):
MAPC 610: Digital Communication Practice (4 crs.)
MAPC 611: Emerging Technologies and Applications (4 crs.)
MAPC 612: Ethics and Communication Law (4 crs.)
MAPC 613: Popular Communication (4 crs.)
MAPC 614: Issues in Communication (4 crs.)

Capstone Project or Thesis

Capstone Course (4 credits, all required):
MAPC 700: Capstone in Professional Communication (4 crs.)

• Can be project or Publishable Scholarly Paper (See MAPC 700 docs)
• Requires application submitted to the MAPC Executive Committee
• MAPC Executive Committee and Director match faculty and students one-on-one

Total Credit Hours: 32