Overview

The focus of the Interpersonal Communication Processes concentration is to incorporate theoretical and applied perspectives on interpersonal communication. We are speficially interested in the construction and negotiation of social reality, focusing on the fundamental processes that occur during interaction. The goal of the Interpersonal Communication Processes concentration is to acquire expertise in identifying, analyzing, and addressing the challenges of effective communication among individuals and relational partners. We examine the production, exchange, and interpretation of messages in a variety of relational contexts, including intercultural communication, conflict, the workplace, family, small group and teams, and health communication.

Success in business and professional fields requires the ability to confront the challenges of effective communication posed by the reality of individuals interacting with each other. Graduates of the Interpersonal Communication Processes concentration have the ability to pursue a number of professional occupations, including careers in corporate, nonprofit, educational and healthcare settings. Students also may go on to teach at community colleges, abroad, or at four-year institutions.

The Interpersonal Communication Processes concentration also provides the necessary theoretical and methodological foundation for students to continue their education and research in doctoral programs across the country.

Degree: Master of Arts

Completion time: 36 hours