San José State University : Communication Studies : FAQs

FAQs

Is a graduate degree in Speech Communication the same as that in Mass Communication?

No. If you're confused about these two programs, please get some information from the School of Journalism and Mass Communications (408-924-3240).
Who handles the admission? How do I find out if I'm admitted to the program?

The graduate coordinator processes your admission when your materials arrive from the Office of Graduate Studies. Please be vigilant about reviewing your application status in CSUMentor and contact the graduate coordinator immediately with any questions. If admitted to the M.A. program, you will receive notification via CSUMentor as well as by letter.
I heard that if my undergraduate degree is NOT from this department, I need to take additional undergraduate courses. Is this true?

It depends. If your bachelor's work included at least one course in (1) the process of communication, (2) rhetoric (classical or modern), and (3) communication research methods (or statistics or other such courses), you may not need to take any additional undergraduate courses. The letter of notification of your admission will spell out what course(s) you need to take.
What if my undergraduate degree is not in communication? Do I need to take additional undergraduate courses?

Yes. The graduate coordinator will help you identify the course(s) you need to take to be fully prepared for graduate seminars. You may be conditionally admitted in such a situation until you fulfill the requirement.
Do you offer any teaching assistantships? How can I apply?

Yes. We have a teaching associate program and teaching associates are selected competitively. Contact Dr. Fassett, Deanna.Fassett@sjsu.edu, for more information. The application deadline is in March.