BYU M.A. in Mass Communications

The Master’s Program in Mass Communications at BYU is designed for students who are passionate about research, media, and the impact of communications in society. With a strong emphasis on preparing students for doctoral study and academic careers, the program also offers valuable training for leadership roles in professional communications. Through close faculty mentorship, hands-on research opportunities, and a values-centered environment, students develop the skills and experience needed to succeed in both scholarly and applied settings. Whether pursuing a Ph.D. or advancing in the communications industry, graduates leave prepared to make meaningful contributions in their fields.

1. Preparation for Doctoral Studies

The program’s top priority is to prepare students for advanced academic work. It emphasizes an in-depth exploration of the mass communications industry, including theoretical frameworks, research methods, and scholarly writing—core competencies needed for success in Ph.D. programs and academic careers.

2. Career Advancement in Communications

In addition to academic training, the program equips students with advanced analytical, writing, and strategic communication skills. After a deep dive into communications research, graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in strategic communications, digital communications, media, corporate communications, and non-profit sectors.

3. Personalized Faculty Mentorship

Graduate students benefit from close collaboration with experienced faculty who are engaged in cutting-edge communications research. Faculty provide one-on-one mentoring, helping students design studies, publish papers, and build academic credentials.

4. Real-World Research and Publishing Experience

Graduate students at BYU have opportunities to co-author research papers with faculty, present their research at national conferences, and publish research articles in peer-reviewed journals—key experiences that make applicants competitive for doctoral programs and in applied research roles in the communications industry.

5. Values-Based, Supportive Environment

BYU offers a unique academic environment that integrates faith, ethics, and rigorous scholarship. For students seeking a community that supports both intellectual and spiritual development, this setting is ideal. The program encourages ethical scholarship and principled communication practices, which are highly valued in today’s professional and academic settings.

6. Integration into Alumni and Placement Network

Graduates of the program have gone on to earn doctoral degrees at top-tier institutions and to build impactful careers in higher education, government, non-profit, and private-sector communications—a testament to the strength and versatility of the BYU training.

 
About the Master’s Program in Mass Communications

The School of Communications offers one graduate degree, a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Mass Communications. Approximately 10 to 15 students are admitted to the program each fall semester. The average time spent completing requirements (5 required classes, 5 elective classes, as well as a minimum of 6 thesis credits and a thesis) for the master’s degree is two years (4 semesters and in some cases, 4 semesters and a spring term during the students’ second and final year).

The deadline for applying to the master’s program is March 31 of each year.

For any additional questions, please contact:

Dr. Pamela Brubaker
Graduate Coordinator
School of Communications
360 BRMB
Provo, UT 84602
801-422-5591
pamela_brubaker@byu.edu

Debby Jackson
Graduate Program Manager
School of Communications
360 BRMB
Provo, UT 84602
801-422-2632
debby_jackson@byu.edu