Communication Oakland University

Overview

The Communication programme at Oakland University offers a unique accelerated pathway that combines undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single, streamlined experience. This innovative curriculum allows students to complete their Master of Arts in significantly less time, providing a distinct competitive advantage in the professional job market.

By integrating twelve credits of graduate-level coursework into the final year of the undergraduate degree, the university enables students to save on tuition costs while fast-tracking their education. This structure is specifically designed for highly motivated individuals who wish to move quickly into strategic leadership roles or prepare for future doctoral research.

Why Communication at Oakland University?

Oakland University provides a high-profile learning environment in Southeast Michigan, supported by an extensive network of community partnerships. These connections facilitate premier internship opportunities across various sectors, including media companies, government agencies, non-profit organisations, and major corporations.

Students gain significant hands-on experience through campus facilities such as the student-run radio station, WXOU, the Oakland Post newspaper, and the television station, OUTV. These outlets allow learners to apply classroom concepts to real-world broadcasting and journalism scenarios while building a professional portfolio.

The institution is noted for its attentive faculty, with most courses taught by senior professors rather than graduate assistants. Small class sizes ensure that students receive personalised interaction and mentorship, fostering a supportive academic community that values diverse perspectives and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 23867 per year
• National fee: USD 23867 per year
• Local fee: USD 16772 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to transition students from foundational concepts to advanced research methodologies. Modules may include:

Senior Year Graduate Credits

• Graduate Studies in Communication
• Philosophy of Communication Scholarship
• Qualitative Methods in Communication
• Quantitative Methods in Communication

Postgraduate Year Electives

• Gender, Sexuality and the Media
• Video Games and Identity
• Audience Research in Media Studies
• Health Communication
• Advanced Interpersonal Communication
• Family Communication
• Communication and Cultural Citizenship
• Culture, Power, and Representation

Careers with Communication

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to bypass entry-level roles and move directly into managerial or strategic positions. The broad nature of the degree supports diverse career paths across multiple industries that require expert messaging and media management.

Common career destinations for graduates include roles within public relations, government affairs, and social media marketing. The skills acquired are also highly applicable to sectors such as advertising, event planning, publishing, and corporate business communication.

For those interested in the media industry, the programme provides a strong foundation for success in radio, television, and digital content creation. Additionally, the accelerated MA serves as an excellent bridge for students intending to pursue a Ph.D. and a career in academia.