The Hank Greenspun School of Journalism & Media Studies offers a joint Master of Arts degree in Communication Studies, with emphases in journalism and media studies. Courses of study are designed both for students with a career orientation - in such diverse arenas as human resources, politics, advertising, education, public relations, broadcasting, and social services - and for those who aspire to continue their education in doctoral programs.

All students are required to take four introductory courses: survey of graduate studies, quantitative analysis, and qualitative research methods, and theory. Yet because each student's goals are unique, the curriculum allows flexibility in developing individual degree programs. Such development aims to balance the discipline's varied traditions in theoretical, historical, and applied research, with particular attention to the changing culture of the twenty-first century.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the general requirements for admission to the Graduate College, the school typically requires:

1. A minimum GPA of 3.00.
2. Satisfactory scores on the verbal and quantitative sections of the Graduate Record Exam.
3. At least three letters of recommendation from individuals who are competent to discuss the applicant's intellectual ability and promise as a graduate student.
4. A brief description (one or two pages long) of the applicant's goals and expectations in pursuing graduate study in communication.
5. A writing sample-a college course paper or something similar is acceptable.

The deadline for Admission is March 15

Degree Requirements

All students enrolled in the program are required to complete the following core courses.

JMS 710 Survey of Journalism & Media Studies
JMS 711 Qualitative Research Methods
JMS 712 Quantitative Research Methods
JMS 730 Theories Of Journalism & Media Studies

Students have the choice of doing original research leading to the writing of a thesis or completing a program of course work leading to a comprehensive examination. Programs of study are designed to meet the student's individual professional or personal objectives. Although an undergraduate degree in journalism or media studies is not required for admission to the program, a student without a background in these or related areas may be required to complete course work in addition to the minimum requirements.

Thesis Track

A student must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of approved course work plus six hours of thesis credits. The classes may include six credits outside the Hank Greenspun School of Journalism & Media Studies. Non-traditional forms of the thesis will be allowed if they are consistent with the overall objectives of the program. An oral examination on the thesis is required.

Examination Track

A student must complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of approved course work. No more than nine hours may be taken outside the Hank Greenspun School of Journalism & Media Studies. Students must pass a comprehensive written examination. The examination lasts eight hours and is given over two consecutive days. An oral examination will also be required.

Graduate Courses

Click here to view graduate courses at unlv.edu

General Information

Click here for Graduate Handbook (PDF)