Master of Arts in Communication with an Emphasis in Education

Overview

Lead in Communication Studies and Education

Grand Canyon University’s Master of Arts in Communication with an Emphasis in Education degree program provides students who have a passion for communications with the opportunity to pursue a career in teaching. This masters in communications program, offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, prepares students to teach undergraduate courses at a two-year or four-year institution, specializing in both traditional campus and online modalities.

Students will engage in a balance of communication content and pedagogy with the goal to gain expertise in understanding, demonstrating and effectively teaching all aspects of communication. This postsecondary communications teacher program shapes students into critical thinkers who examine the role and impact of communication on culture and society. Various types of communication addressed include interpersonal and relational, strategic, intercultural and media communication.

Moving through the program, students will address course topics such as:

• Workplace relationships and social influencing
• Application of pedagogical knowledge through situational case studies
• Practices of argumentation, persuasion and behavioral change through organizational messaging
• Student learning and comprehension
• Media consumption (role and influence of TV, radio, social media, blogs, websites etc.)

Degree Outcomes

Gain Strong Communications Skills, Impact Student Learning

Graduates will possess various communications skills that are required for professional success and beneficial for personal wellbeing. Equipped with these skills, graduates will also have a deep understanding of research-based pedagogical practices (such as distance learning and the use of technology) and curriculum development with the goal to impact university-level classrooms.

This program also integrates GCU’s distinct Christian worldview to emphasize the importance of moral character and ethical decision making. This means our graduates are inspired to lead in service to others, give attention to sensitive message construction and contribute to a healthy global community.

What You Will Learn

Learn to Craft Ethical and Effective Communication

Three main domains make up this Master of Arts in Communication with an Emphasis in Education degree program to ensure students are well-prepared to lead in communication messaging: pedagogy, theory and practice. Students receive pedagogical training in strategic curriculum design, diverse adult learning theories and best practices for incorporating technology for online learning environments.

Theory also plays an important role in the communications discipline. Students learn to express knowledge in organizational culture theory, as well as comparing and contrasting the application of differing theories.

The masters in communication program’s practice domain ensures students can perform communication skills in both professional and personal context. These include conducting audience analysis, measuring learning and assessing communication campaigns.

Career Outcomes

Pursue Your Passion to Teach Communications

Graduates will be able to move into leadership roles at colleges and universities with the skills and knowledge to teach a diverse and eclectic range of communication courses. This program also satisfies requirements necessary for ongoing professional development. Students may choose to pursue continuing education to grow their expertise within their specialty.