Master of Arts in Public and Organizational Relations

Communication effectiveness in interpersonal, small group, organizational, and public settings is probably the most valued professional attribute. Whether speaking to the press, presenting at a conference, chairing boardroom discussion, designing media kits, managing interpersonal conflicts, or handling organizational crises, excellent communication is the cornerstone of success. This is especially true in today's world, in which team-based innovation, multiculturalism, and global connectedness are increasingly important.

The Department of Communication Studies' Master of Arts (MA) in Public and Organizational Relations is a highly applicable degree. Program alumni typically secure jobs in public relations, marketing, human resource management, sales, organizational consulting, broadcast media, public administration-nearly every profession and industry that values communication skills, spanning corporate, non-profit, and governmental settings.

Features of the program include small classes, individualized attention, independent study and internship opportunities in students' particular areas of interest, ability to take cognate classes in other departments, and a thesis/non-thesis graduation option. Coursework addresses theories, research methods, and practices of written, spoken, and visual communication, featuring topics such as leadership, conflict management, problem solving, cultural diversity, persuasion, listening, organizational identity, crisis management, new media, and more. Graduate classes typically meet once a week in the evening. The program's 33 credits may be completed in 4 semesters by full-time students, and 5-6 semesters by part-time enrollees.

Internships with Fortune 500 and media organizations provide practical experience for entry or advancement in communication careers. Participation in professional associations allows students to build confidence by presenting scholarship and networking with some of the top professionals in the field. Faculty, likewise, are nationally and internationally recognized, and bring the most advanced communication concepts and modalities to the classroom.

For information about the program's required and elective courses, faculty, and facilities, contact the Department of Communication Studies' Graduate Program Coordinator, Dr. Todd Kelshaw, at kelshawt@mail.montclair.edu or 973.655.5162.

Visit the Communication Studies website for further information.

TO APPLY TO THIS PROGRAM, PLEASE VISIT http://www.montclair.edu/graduate/prospective/app.shtml