Master of Arts in Communication - Political Communication

Political communication research explores the production, dissemination, processing, and effects of information, delivered interpersonally, online and through traditional media. Under this overarching interest, we examine how political realities are constructed in news, campaigns, and user-generated content and how interpersonal communication, online social networks, and also mass and digital media influence citizens cognitions, attitudes, and behaviors. We use a variety of quantitative research methods including survey, experiment, content analysis, and data science approaches such as computational and big data analytics.

The program focuses on the social scientific study of human communication using quantitative research methods with a concentration in mediated communication and digital society. Students gain advanced knowledge of how people create, transmit, interpret, evaluate and respond to messages to inform, relate to, and influence one another interpersonally, in small groups, in organizations, in public settings and across cultures. Students graduate with the qualitative and quantitative skills necessary for professional research and teaching in the strategic aspects of social interaction, mediated communication, and the development of communication theories. The program prepares students for careers in research, teaching, industry and government.

Successful applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or the equivalent that is comparable to a degree from the University of California both in distribution of academic subject matter and in scholarship achievement. Regional accreditation for U.S. institutions and authorization by a national higher education authority for international institutions
Transcripts of all college work, a Statement of Purpose, and a Personal History Statement.
The minimum TOEFL score for admission is 100 out of a possible 120, counting all four sections of the iBT TOEFL (Internet-based TOEFL). TOEFL scores expire after two years.
Graduate Studies requires a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4-point scale.
A minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) from the institution where you have earned or will earn your bachelor's degree.
The minimum IELTS score for admission is 7.0 on a 9-point scale.
The letters of recommendation should be from persons who can evaluate your scholarly potential. We suggest obtaining at least two letters from faculty members with whom you have studied or worked.