What is the application deadline?

The deadline varies from year-to-year but is usually around mid-February for a September start. We do not have a January start for either program. Please consult the Graduate Academic Calendar for the year you are applying.  You can also find deadline information on the Graduate Online Application page.  While all candidates who apply by the deadline are guaranteed consideration, we continue to review applications until the programs are full.

What is the difference between the MPR and the MA?

The MPR is a traditionally structured professional (course-based) degree, in which students will complete five units of course work, including a project seminar. Students enroll in a project seminar course in the final term of their degree. In this course, students design their projects in consultation with the faculty member teaching the course. This exploration is grounded in the students’ learning throughout the degree to link theoretical and research ideas to practical contexts in the profession.

The MA (Communication) is a traditional thesis-based program that requires students to complete three-and-a-half units of course work and one-and-a-half units of thesis (which typically takes at least one full year to complete). This degree will appeal to those who have a particular research interest that will contribute to the body of knowledge in the discipline of public relations.

What is the intended career focus for each of the graduate programs?

The MPR is designed for individual’s who are either working in the public relations field or intend to seek employment in the public relations field upon graduation. This program emphasizes theory and skills in the areas of strategic public relations, management, digital media, and corporate communication among other areas.

If you complete the MA (Communication), you should be well prepared to pursue doctoral work in a related discipline and have the research skills to become an effective instructor of public relations at the college level.

How long do the programs take to complete?

Completion times vary. Depending on course availability, and whether you want to study full- or part-time, you can finish the MPR in two years, and the MA (Communication) in two-three+ years. Students must complete all program requirements towards masters degrees within five calendar years from the time of initial registration exclusive of approved leaves of absence.

What is the expected workload?

You should come prepared to do a greater amount of reading and independent study, compared to undergraduate students. Classes normally meet once a week in a two to three-hour seminar format where students analyze and discuss assigned readings. You will be expected to go beyond the assigned readings to broaden your knowledge.

Do you offer flexible and online learning options?

The Mount offers courses using a variety of course delivery modes. Online resources enhance the different delivery modes to make learning accessible to everyone. Below are general descriptions of some delivery modes:

In-person
Instruction takes place in an in-person setting at an assigned day/time and location. Scheduled courses are delivered in a physical location on or off campus. The course instructor may use a variety of educational technologies to varying degrees.

Synchronous Online
Instruction takes place in real-time online using virtual meeting software. Scheduled courses require student presence online at assigned days/times. The course instructor will communicate expectations for online engagement.

Hyflex (Multi-Access)
Instruction is available online and in-person. Scheduled courses have two groups of students, one in-person and one online. The course instructor will communicate expectations for in-person and online students.