The Communication Science program seeks to understand processes of human interactions evident in various face-to-face and mediated contexts as they relate to the cognitive, social, and cultural functions of communication. Using various social scientific methods, teaching and research in Communication Science is organized in three broad topical areas:
- Communication and social relationships (how relationships among people are initiated and maintained in various contexts)
- Media effects (processes and effects of various media)
- Social influence (processes of social change and collective decision-making that involve persuasion, deliberation, and information exchange)
Cutting across these areas is a wide range of topics and themes:
- Health
- Racial and ethnic relations
- Civic engagement
- Public opinion
- Group dynamics
- Uses and effects of new technologies
The graduate program in Communication Science provides students with core knowledge in communication theory and research methodology and the opportunity to develop their research interests in a way that enhances scientific understanding of human communication as well as applications of such knowledge. The Center for Communication Research provides facilities, support, and venues for faculty and graduate students to conduct their research.
Visit the Center for Communication Research
For degree requirements and other detailed program information, please consult the graduate handbook: