Digital and Applied Communication, M.A.

(30-33 credits minimum)

The Master of Arts in Digital and Applied Communication is an asynchronous online program at Indiana State University. The program is open to U.S. and international applicants who satisfy admission requirements.

Designed with working professionals in mind, the program emphasizes the development of practical skills that can be immediately applied in professional contexts. Whether you are seeking to advance your career or pivot into a new area of communication, our curriculum balances theory with practice to meet the needs of today’s dynamic workplaces.

Digital & Applied Communication blends research-driven strategy with hands-on production. Core courses build inquiry and cross-cultural competence; electives in interpersonal, persuasion, social media, health, and digital media production translate theory into campaigns and measurable outcomes.

Our online curriculum prepares you for advanced communication professions in the private and public sectors, including media and public-issues management in business, education, government, and non-profits.

Communication Core

COMM 601 - Analysis of Research/Creativity 3 Credits
COMM 602 - Research Methods 3 Credits
COMM 603 - Research Practice 3 Credits
COMM 604 - Cross Cultural Communication 3 Credits

Elective Requirement (15 credits)

Choose 15 credits from the choice below.

COMM 611 - Interpersonal Communication 3 Credits
COMM 612 - Persuasion Theory and Practice 3 Credits
COMM 620 - Professional Media Production 3 Credits
COMM 626 - Health Communication Theory and Application 3 Credits
COMM 614 - Seminar in Communication 3-6 Credits
COMM 633 - Social Media 3 Credits
COMM 664 - Independent Study in Communication 1-6 Credits
Up to 9 hours of 600-level course work from a different department may be allowed to apply to the elective course work requirement.

Culminating Experience (3-6 credits)

Students earning the master of arts degree will complete the comprehensive exam. Other options listed below may be appropriate for a student to discuss with their academic advisor.

COMM 693 - Culminating Experience: Comprehensive Exam 3 Credits
COMM 690 - The Creative Project 3-6 Credits
COMM 696 - Culminating Experience: Research Project 3-6 Credits
COMM 699 - Master’s Thesis 3-6 Credits

Note:

Courses in the 500 series are open to undergraduates as *400 series. Graduate students are required to do additional work of a research nature. A course taken at the 400 level may not be repeated at the 500 level.