MA
Communication Arts Department
From public relations to web to social media, the Master of Arts in Contemporary Communication at NDMU provides the tools to develop comprehensive communication strategies within a constantly evolving media landscape. Our program’s dynamic mix of creative and practical approaches to problem-solving will prepare you to craft innovative campaigns that are purposeful and impactful for your audience.
students in classroom
Program Location

Additional Study Options

Study at NDMU Online

Student Outcomes

At the completion of the program, you will be able to:

  1. Integrate computer skills and creativity in media through visual images and written communication
  2. Write clear, purposeful, audience-oriented communications across a variety of media
  3. Apply creative approaches to communications planning and problem solving
  4. Coordinate the production of visually effective and informative print, graphic and electronic communications
  5. Exhibit a solid grounding in communication theories
  6. Employ research techniques, applications and organizational methods and skills in new and emerging technologies
  7. Demonstrate a comprehension of the language and complexities of communication modes: visual, written and oral
  8. Develop skills to pursue professional careers in new opportunities for communication or creative expression
Curriculum

Required Courses (6 Credits)

IDS 510 - Approaches to Contemporary Communication (3)
CST 515 - Technology in Contemporary Communication (3)

Discipline Requirements (30 Credits)

Select 30 credits from the following courses, including at least 18 credits in any combination of CST and COM courses. The remaining credits may be taken in any combination of ENG, PHL, ART, COM, CST, and IDS.

Art

ART 509 - Graduate Photography Workshop (3)
ART 520 - Visual Culture (3)

Communication Arts

COM 505 - Business Communication (3)
COM 507 - Film Themes (3)
COM 509 - Media Criticism and Theory (3)
COM 511 - Communication Issues (3)
COM 515 - Cross-Cultural Communication (3)
COM 517 - Communication and Gender (3)
COM 520 - Media Technology Management (3)
COM 530 - Independent Study (3)
COM 556 - Research Methods for Professionals (3)
COM 565 - Campaign Design and Execution(3)
COM 620 - Public Relations Management (3)
COM 610 - Social Media for Professionals

Computer Studies 

CST 511 - Topics in Information Systems (3)
CST 530 - Fundamentals of Knowledge Management (3)
CST 531 - Data Design and Management (3)
CST 534 - Data Driven Business Decisions (3)
CST 580 - Managing Info in Web-Based World (3)
CST 593 - Web Development (3)
CST 595 - Multimedia Applications (3)

English

ENG 503 - Graduate Writing (3)
ENG 512 - Topics in Contemporary Interpretation (3)

Philosophy

PHL 511 - Topics in Philosophy (3)
PHL 521 - Ethical Issues in Leadership (3)

Interdisciplinary 

IDS 512 - Writing Workshop (3)
IDS 600 - Colloquium in Contemporary Communication (6)

https://catalog.ndm.edu/graduate-catalog/graduate-school-of-arts-and-sciences/ma-in-contemporary-communication

What to Expect Studying at Notre Dame of Maryland University

Small class sizes and personal attention enhance the student experience while an interdisciplinary curriculum allows you to customize the program to your own interests and goals.

Flexible Class Schedules

We offer highly flexible degree completion options to meet the needs of working students:

  • Face-to-Face
  • 100% Online
  • Hybrid Courses

Masters Project Option

You may choose to apply what you have learned to complete a 6-credit master’s thesis, or a creative endeavor, such as a screenplay, novel, photo essay, or website.

Contemporary Communication Careers

  • Public Relations
  • Organizational Communication
  • Website Development
  • Social Media Coordination