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The Graduate Program in Communication at UWM encompasses advanced degrees, Master of Arts in Communication (MA) and Doctor of Philosophy in Communication (PhD), offered by the Department of Communication. Each graduate degree has its own unique programmatic content developed by department faculty and approved by UWM’s Graduate Faculty Committee (and when necessary other governance bodies, administrators, and/or the UW-System).

At the graduate level (MA, PhD), the Department of Communication’s curriculum consists of courses in Communication Theory and Research with emphasis on Rhetoric and/or Social Science.

Admission to any graduate program at UWM begins with an application to the Graduate School. Students who have decided they want to be admitted to one of the Department of Communication’s graduate or certificate programs are strongly encouraged to access the Graduate School’s websites:

UWM Graduate School Information

Master of Arts in Communication

The Master of Arts in Communication is designed to provide breadth and depth of study in communication theory and research adopting rhetorical and/or social scientific approaches. The program provides initial and advanced preparation for a variety of careers including continued study leading to the PhD degree.

Doctor of Philosophy in Communication

The Doctor of Philosophy in Communication provides study and training for entry into academic or professional careers that would necessitate theory-driven basic or applied research on communication practices and outcomes. The program’s thrust emphasizes studying communication theory and research from rhetorical and/or social scientific perspectives.

Graduate Certificate Program

The Department of Communication also offers Graduate Certification in the area listed below. Students interested in this program are encouraged to contact the program directly or inquire with the Coordinator of Graduate Studies:

Contact Us

Prospective Graduate Students

Questions regarding the application or the application process should be directed to the UWM Graduate School at gradschool@uwm.edu or 414-229-6569.

Current Graduate Students

Questions about research opportunities, department funding opportunities, or issues specific to the discipline should be directed to Sara VanderHaagen.

Graduate Programs

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Master’sOn Campus
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DoctoralOn Campus

Ready to Apply?

Select the program that’s right for you, and you will find more instructions on how to apply and what to expect.

Graduate Student Resources

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Communication Graduate Courses
Review course lists, upcoming courses, and options for electives.
Visit Graduate Courses
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Financial Support for Graduate Students
The Department offers assistantships and limited scholarships for graduate students.
Visit Financial Support
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Scholarships & Awards
Understand how to create a scholarship application and sources of funding.
Visit Scholarships & Awards

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