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Communication Studies: Applied Communication

Also offered as: Communication Studies (Graduate)

The Applied Communication online MA is designed to offer working professionals a flexible program to hone their understanding of the theory and application of communication concepts. Students can tailor their experience to cultivate skill sets related to various communication contexts.

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Communication Studies: Applied Communication

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Degree Level
Master of Arts
Delivery
Fully Online
Time to Degree
4 Semesters
Credit Hours
33 Total, 33 in Major
Careers
Advertising, Managers
Communication Studies: Applied Communication students at EIU

Why Study Communication Studies: Applied Communication at EIU?

  • Develop highly transferable communication skills
  • Customize your degree around your personal and professional goals
  • Focus on application of communication theories
  • Explore communication contexts specific to your interests
See it for yourself Schedule a Visit
"I didn't expect to get real experience this early, but by my sophomore year I was already working on projects that felt like actual marketing work. It made me feel confident that I'm ready for what comes next."
Alex Wilcoxon
Marketing | Junior
Alex Wilcoxon, Marketing at EIU

Hands-On Experience

  • Develop a portfolio showcasing applied communication skills
  • Practice in-demand communication skills related to professional environments
  • Specialize in specific skills-based competencies
  • Address real-world communication issues and problems
Explore Courses
Hands-On Experience, Communication Studies: Applied Communication students at EIU

What You'll Learn

The online option in Applied Communication targets working professionals, especially individuals aspiring to leadership roles in their current professions.  This option helps students enhance their marketability in today's professional environment through the integration of theory and practice and the development of skills related to strategic communication, interpersonal communication, and conflict management.

4-Year Sequence
View in Catalog
$135,347
Median Salary 4 Years After Graduation

Career Outcomes

  • Advertising & Promotions Managers
  • Public Relations Managers
  • Fundraising Managers
  • Public Relations Specialists
  • Human Resources Specialists
  • Educational, Guidance, & Career…
  • Communications Teachers, Postsecondary

Career Insights

Job Outlook ★ Bright Outlook Grow Rapidly · Openings
Preparation Needed Considerable (4/5)
Personality Fit Enterprising

Financing Your Degree Under the 2026 Rules

Federal graduate lending changed on July 1, 2026 - Grad PLUS loans ended for new borrowers and new federal borrowing caps now apply to graduate students. Here's why the math still works at EIU:

Estimated total for this degree: ~$15,147 (tuition and fees)

  • ✓ That's only about 15% of the new $100,000 lifetime graduate borrowing limit - leaving room for whatever comes next in your career.
  • ✓ A typical full-time year here runs about $8,262 - well under the new $20,500 annual federal loan limit, so federal loans alone can cover tuition and fees.
  • ✓ Working? If your employer offers it, they can provide up to $5,250 per year tax-free toward your education - at EIU's rates, that can cover a good share of a part-time master's.

Estimates use 2026-2027 Illinois-resident tuition and fees and typical full-time enrollment. Your actual costs and aid depend on your program, enrollment, FAFSA, and prior borrowing.

Talk to EIU Financial Aid →
15% of lifetime limit

$15,147 total, just 15% of your $100,000 federal graduate borrowing limit

Connect With Us

Dr. Samantha Szczur
Associate Professor & Graduate Coordinator
sszczur@eiu.edu
2417 Buzzard Hall
217-581-6003
Dr. Samantha Szczur Message Dr. Szczur

Message Dr. Szczur

or email sszczur@eiu.edu directly
Matthew Gill
Department Chair
mjgill@eiu.edu
2526
217-581-6003
Matthew Gill Message Matthew

Message Matthew

or email mjgill@eiu.edu directly
Billy Panther
Head of Panther Pride
Old Main
217-581-2223
Billy the Panther Message Billy

Message Billy

or email billy@eiu.edu directly

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