Streamlined, High-Impact, and More Flexible: Governors State University Unveils the New Master of Arts in Communication

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(University Park, IL) - Governors State University (GovState) is excited to announce a bold evolution of its graduate offerings with the launch of the newly reimagined Master of Arts in Communication program (formerly the M.A. in Communication, Media, and Performance).

This revamped program has been hyper-focused to deliver a cutting-edge, communication-centric curriculum designed to launch graduates into high-level leadership roles across today's most dynamic sectors—including corporate strategy, human resource development, public relations, public affairs, and journalism.

What’s New? Faster, Leaner, and Fully Customizable

To meet the demands of today’s fast-paced corporate and media environments, GovState has completely modernized the program structure to maximize flexibility and real-world application.

Key updates include:

Accelerated Pathway to Success: The program has been streamlined down from 36-credit-hours to just 30-credit-hours, allowing students to earn their degree faster without compromising academic excellence.
Hyper-Focused Curriculum: By pivoting from 'Media and Performance' to a core focus on Strategic Communication, the curriculum aligns directly with the high-demand skills modern employers are looking for.
Designed for Working Professionals: With a highly customizable structure, students can easily balance their studies with full-time careers, whether they are aiming for immediate corporate advancement or preparing for advanced doctoral research.

"Student goals shouldn't have to wait. We’ve evolved our Communication MA program into a streamlined, 30-credit experience designed around the realities of modern life,” said Dr. Valerie Cronin-Fisher, Associate Professor of Communication Studies and Program Coordinator of the Master of Arts in Communication. “By reshaping our requirements, we’ve created a flexible, well-rounded program that empowers students to build the exact skills they need to succeed in an ever-changing world."

True professional preparedness means graduate training doesn't just sit on a resume—it actively shapes your daily decisions. Alumnus Cheri Ruiz, Director of Sales at a senior living community, shares how the program continues to drive her career forward:

"The skills I developed through the Communication program have become foundational to my professional success. Few people can say they actively apply so much of what they learned in graduate school to their everyday career, but I am grateful that the Communication program prepared me in ways that continue to influence and strengthen my work every day," said Ruiz.

Ready to Shape the Future of Communication?

Whether you are looking to lead corporate strategy, pioneer public relations campaigns, or influence public affairs, the updated M.A. in Communication at GovState is built to get you there sooner.

Applications are now open. Elevate your voice, empower your career, and lead the conversation.

Follow this link to learn more about the Master of Arts in Communication program.

For more details on admission requirements or to apply, visit the Graduate Admissions webpage or contact Graduate Admissions at 708-235-7306 or graduateadmission@govst.edu.