Info for Students
GRADUATE / Degrees we offer
M.S.
Candidates for the master’s degree study theories of communication and develop a comprehensive grasp of social scientific methods. Students then propose, test, and refine communication theory. Several core subjects are required of all master’s degree students: communication theory, research methods, and statistics. As they progress, students deepen their understanding of contemporary research-based knowledge in the field. All students design and conduct a research project that investigates an area of societal concern.
Students complete 36 credits for the master of science degree. Typically, this takes two years. An undergraduate background in communication is not necessary, but students without one should expect to complete additional course work.
Special committees for M.S. candidates: Each graduate student assembles a special committee of faculty members to serve as advisors, approve course plans, and supervise research. Master's candidates have at least three faculty members on their special committee. Two of these must be in the Field of Communication and the other may be from among the over 1,500 members of Cornell’s graduate faculty.
Ph.D.
The Ph.D. program prepares a small number of serious and well-qualified students for careers in research and university teaching. It is a flexible program with few curricular requirements.
Most students begin with a general-theory course and a research course that will prepare them to excel in advanced courses. The rest of the curriculum is decided by each student in consultation with his or her special committee. Doctoral candidates are required to teach at least two semesters, usually as teaching assistants for an undergraduate course.
Most students who apply for the Ph.D. already have or are completing a master's degree. Students can apply to the M.S./Ph.D. program without a master’s degree and, if admitted, move directly into the Ph.D. program after completing the master’s.
Special committees for Ph.D. candidates: Each graduate student assembles a special committee of faculty members to serve as advisors, approve course plans, and supervise research. Ph.D. candidates have at least four faculty members on their special committee. At least three of these must be in the Field of Communication, with the fourth drawn from among the over 1,500 members of Cornell’s graduate faculty.
