CE NTE R FOR G R ADUATE STU DI ES
MA/COM
Master of Arts in Communication
MEETING THE CHALLENGE OF THE INFORMATION AGE
Graduate Studies at Hawai‘i Pacific University
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awai‘i Pacific University provides students with the most up-to-date knowledge available to meet the challenges of this changing world. Here, students find a dynamic, creative environment both in class and out, where their program integrates theory, research and practice, and talented faculty bring their expertise and professional backgrounds into the classroom. Our relevant programs, balance of theory, research, and practice, individual attention, experienced faculty, and Pacific Rim location make HPU the ideal choice for motivated students and nursing professionals.
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A Great Place to Live, Learn, and Work
iving and learning in Hawai‘i is an unforgettable experience. Honolulu is a major hub of activity for business, education, government, military affairs, health services, politics, and commerce. These resources provide students with a variety of opportunities to conduct research, network with professionals, and experience on-the-job training through an internship or practicum. In fact, life on the HPU campus owes much of its ambience to the Honolulu community. With a population of 750,000, Honolulu is a large and modern city, but still retains all the small town advantages. Hawai‘i Pacific University’s location provides easy access to the social and cultural excitement of the waterfront, the solitude of the Ko‘olau Mountains, and the beauty and fun of Hawai‘i’s beaches.
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The Master of Arts in Communication (MA/COM) Features • Focused Studies in Strategic Communication • Certificate in Mediation • Flexible course scheduling • Full- or part-time study • Flexibility in choosing electives • Multiple start dates
Accelerate Your Degree Accelerate your degree program by capitalizing on the many terms available throughout the year. Flexibility is key–work with committed graduate advisors to set your own pace as you progress through the curriculum.
Communication skills are essential to success, personally and professionally. It is estimated that 75 percent of a person’s day is spent in communication. Therefore, this graduate degree builds successfully upon undergraduate degrees in any discipline and enhances your chances of success in any endeavor.
Technology Tools For Learning
Communication is the fastest growing career field in the world, according to the Institute for International Education. In this age of global, instantaneous communication, people who can gather data, translate it clearly and accurately, and present it dynamically and persuasively are in great demand.
• Access to online periodical databases in communication • Web enhanced courses • High-tech classroom facilities • State-of-the-art wireless services on campus
Hawai‘i Pacific University’s Master of Arts in Communication provides an interdisciplinary approach integrating skills, theory, and knowledge. Critical thinking is stressed in each course so that graduates will be prepared for rapid change in communication industries. The MA/COM prepares students for careers ranging in advertising, mass media, public relations, entertainment, broadcast or print journalism, the Internet, education, and other fields.
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Internships and Graduate Learning
“Our program provides a curriculum that integrates digital technology, strategic communication and strong writing skills. Because of its unique history, Hawaii is one of the most advanced communication hubs in the world. Our talented faculty of social scientists and industry experts bring real-world experience and best practices to the classroom. Students learn to conduct and read primary research so that they can create powerful messages, implement effective communication campaigns, or move on to more advanced studies.” Dr. Peter Britos Department of Communication Chair
“The experience I gained at HPU was exceptional, especially in intercultural communication. I have learnt how indispensable communication skills are in today’s globalized world, and I use the experience I acquired from HPU every single day in my current occupation”.
Assignments and internships throughout the program use a pragmatic approach to develop the students’ marketable skills. Rather than relying solely on textbooks, students apply what they learn in the classroom to actual problems faced by organizations and businesses. Communication classrooms are exciting scenes of discovery. Interactive learning techniques include multimedia, Internet exploration, case analysis, and portfolio development. Every communication graduate student will be appointed a faculty mentor to assist and guide students through their graduate experience.
Graduate Learning Students should be prepared to commit themselves to a rigorous course of study, research, and group work. MA/COM candidates will be challenged to develop the self-discipline, personal integrity, and professional ethics they will need as communication professionals. • MA/COM candidates will enjoy individual attention from faculty mentors. • Students study in a microcosm of the global village–almost a third of the total HPU student population come from more than 101 countries, another third are from Hawai‘i, and the remainder journey from the other 49 states.
One of the many advantages of the HPU Communication program is its location. • HPU classes are small and structured to emphasize Hawai‘i is a bridge for global commerce and practical applications. political interaction between the mainland United States and Asia. Opportunities for jobs and internships with multinational companies abound in this international environment. HPU students are well prepared for the worldwide market because they study in a microcosm of the global village. Classrooms and offices of the Communication program are in the heart of the downtown financial district of Honolulu near the legislature, print and television news organizations, media production companies, public relations firms, and advertising agencies. Another advantage is small class size that allows faculty members at HPU to provide mentoring and individual attention as students progress toward their academic and professional goals. Faculty members are also actively involved with the professional community which benefits students by creating networking contacts, practical training and internship opportunities, and employment options.
Mariam M. Sambe MA/COM Alumni
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The Master of Arts in Communication (MA/COM) 39 credits – 13 courses
“Teaching in the MACOM program is an immense pleasure. The diversity of interest and background among faculty and students brings a constant influx of new perspectives and prompts a variety of creative fusions. The warmth of the island finds its way to the spirit of the learning environment.”
Graduation THESIS or NON-THESIS OPTION 6 Credits
COM 7150 Thesis I
COM 7290 COM 7300
COM 7250 Thesis II
Graduate Project and Comprehensive Exams
Dr. Serena Hashimoto, Ph.D. MACOM Advisor
Content Tracks Students may elect to pursue a specific focus in their studies, or complete a variety of electives within the communication field. Concentrations include: • Strategic Communication • Media & Culture • Certificate in Mediation
Non-native speakers of English who did not graduate from a U.S. university must take MGMT 6100. Should a student feel he or she has the writing and research capabilities in this course, the student may take an exemption exam.
Elective
Elective Elective
Elective
COM 6000 Introduction to Communication Studies COM 6400 Writing for the Professional
ELECTIVES 21 Credits
Elective Elective
Elective
COM 6050 Research Methods and Materials
CORE COURSES 12 Credits
COM 6060 or COM 6070 Qualitative or Quantitative Methods
The Master of Arts in Communication is designed to prepare students for careers in business communication, marketing, advertising, mass media, public relations, entertainment, broadcast or print journalism, sales, the Internet, writing, or education. Graduates can also pursue a Ph.D. in rhetoric, cultural studies, and other communication related specialties. Students will learn the essential skills they need to become professional communicators who can meet the intense challenge of the information age. The MA/COM requires a minimum of 39 semester hours of graduate work composed of 12 semester hours of core courses; 21 semester hours of electives and 6 semester hours of a professional project/thesis. By their choice of electives and capstone projects, students may elect to focus their studies in one of the following fields: integrated communication, multimedia Internet, public relations, advertising, or journalism.
MGMT 6100 Research Methods and Writing
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Course Descriptions CORE COURSES (12 SEMESTER HOURS or 4 COURSES) COM 6000 Introduction to Communication Studies
A survey course for the field of communication. This course provides an overview of the historical development of communication theory and practice, develops student skills as a critical listener and writer, and introduces vocabulary for describing and analyzing communication practices. COM 6400 Writing for the Professional "Being able to develop relationships with the MACOM program's caring and knowledgeable professors enabled me to really develop my critical thinking skills and grow as a person." Lisa Chuang MACOM Student
Focuses on the theory and practice of writing and presenting academic research papers, including the elements of conducting rigorous research and writing to produce readable, strong research reports. Topics include the language of academic research and skills in summarization, synthesis, defining terms, citing sources, and describing methods and casual relationships. COM 6050 Research Methods and Materials
The course will explore various methodologies used in communication research including experimental, qualitative, quantitative, and formative techniques, Data-gathering methods such as interviews, surveys, observation, historical, focus groups, and recall are also included. COM 6060 Qualitative Methods in Communication Research
The course focuses on how we come to know in communication research through molding theories into descriptive, historical methodologies and apply those approaches onto specific artifacts. OR COM 6070 Quantitative Research Methods in Communication
The course focuses methodologies and their applications, such as analyzing statistical data and applying inferential statistical to empirical research. “In a day when images and designs are used in an attempt to inform and persuade people, it is important to understand effective visual communication. Learning principles of good graphic design and developing computer skills in desktop publishing, Web design, and digital imaging help prepare graduates to communicate more effectively using well-designed print, broadcast, and online media.” Brian Cannon Assistant Professor of Communication
“The United States Department of Labor has declared that there are 16 qualities for high job performance. Ten of these qualities are commonly studied in the field of communication: listening, speaking, creative thinking, decision making, problem solving, reasoning, self-esteem, sociability, self-management, and integrity/honesty.” National Communication Association, Pathways to Careers in Communication. h t t p : / / w w w. h p u . e d u / m a c o m
Course Descriptions ELECTIVE COURSES (21 SEMESTER HOURS or 7 COURSES) The following titles represent a sampling of available elective courses that may be taken for a general overview of the field or focused in one area: COM 6010 Advertising Strategy
“Our international student body, accomplished faculty and dynamic cultural location provide a blend of human experiences and perspectives that foster an optimal learning environment. We encourage our students to revel in discovery, engage in global communication processes and respect critical thought. Through our comprehensive curriculum we ensure that MACOM candidates develop relevant, cuttingedge communication skills and advanced analytic and presentational abilities. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with students on their life goals and aspirations in the communication and information industries.� Dr. Malia J. Smith MACOM Director/Assistant Professor
A comprehensive view of advertising including persuasion theory, creativity, audience analysis, research, media selection and scheduling, script and copywriting, layout, budgeting, evaluation, and campaign management. The course explores the legal, regulatory, and ethical environment of advertising, current industry trends, and major contributors to the field. COM 6100 Integrated Communication
A survey of the dynamics, practices, and interrelationships among information outlets, consumers, and organizations while building upon the base of current theories and models of communication. It provides a mix of the art and science of marketing, public relations, organizational communication, and the mass media and includes strategic applications for a variety of topics specific to public communication and the private sector. COM 6310 International Communication
This course will examine the elements that affect communication across cultural and national boundaries. It will investigate those effects on conflict development and management, leadership style, and technology. It will develop in students the ability to communicate effectively and efficiently when cross-cultural and world view boundaries. COM 6460 Design and Layout
The course will cover design and production of publications, advertising, and presentation materials using QuarkXPress software. It will also include discussions of design principles; typography; use of color, layout, and paste-up techniques; printing processes, and paper selection; and theory of visualcommunication. Numerous publications are produced; however, no prior computer experience is required. COM 6500 Teaching Techniques
The course will explore teaching and learning strategies including syllabus construction, content structure, assessment methods, learning and instructional methods, and similar topics. Students will also have an opportunity to assist faculty in the delivery of undergraduate courses at HPU. COM 6540 History of American News Media
This course is an examination of the history of American news media from Colonial times to the present. The course will place an emphasis on the role of decisive individuals; the theory of American democracy and the Fourth Estate; technology; economics; the creed of objectivity; First Amendment issues; political speech; ethics; the courts; wartime reporting; the treatment of ethnic groups; the cult of celebrity; and matters of taste. COM 6770 Media Criticism
The study of how we analyze and evaluate mediated messages. Students will learn how to properly experience an artifact, put it in its proper context, choose the appropriate model to evaluate and to apply that method to the example, being able to make a conclusion about whether or not the example was effectively communicated. COM 6610 Persuasion and Negotiation
This course examines the art and science of influence. Topics included sources of influence, managing power relationships, and the use of effective techniques of persuasion in mediation. Students also learn theoretical foundations and practical applications of negotiation strategies, processes, and skills. Students will participate in individual and group negotiations.
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Capstone Courses PROFESSIONAL PROJECT AND THESIS COURSE (6 SEMESTER HOURS or 2 COURSES) The Master of Arts in Communication has two capstone options--the thesis or a professional project coupled with a comprehensive exam. The thesis option is designed for the student seeking a more concentrated, intellectual focus and in-depth experience in independent research. This option requires the student to investigate a communication topic, develop a hypothesis or key question, and then test the hypothesis by conducting original research. The thesis is strongly recommended for students intending to pursue the doctorate.
"The most exciting feature of the classes I attended in the MA/COM program was the ethnic diversity of the student body. As a native Hawaiian student, I was able to work with and learn about the perspectives held by students from various countries such as Taiwan, Sweden, and Saudi Arabia. This exposure and experience not only gave me a better understanding about how different people from different places think and feel but how my existence is affected by the communication that takes place around the world. Academic courses such as International Communication, Film Criticism, and Communication Law & Ethical Theory provided me with the skills and knowledge necessary to decipher and comprehend various types of information both locally and globally." Kanekoa K.C. Crabbe Hawaii MA/COM Alumni
Go Online for: • Joint degree options • Faculty profiles • Course schedules
The professional project coupled with a comprehensive exam allows for internships, creative projects, or professional collaborations culminating in oral and written exams.
Professional Certificate Programs To complement the MA/COM degree program, students may also earn a professional certificate in the areas listed below. Often, students are able to earn a certificate by taking a few extra courses. Please consult with a graduate advisor for more details.
• Electronic Commerce • Information Systems • Knowledge Management • Software Engineering • Telecommunications Security • Global Leadership & Sustainable Development
• Human Resource Management • International Management • National and Community Change and Development • Organizational Change and Development • Consulting
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Support and Service Career Connections The following is a partial list of companies that have recently hired or have current MA/COM students working for them. Bank of Hawai‘i City Bank Fox News Hawaiian Telcom Honolulu Advertiser HMSA IBM KGMB - Honolulu KHON - Honolulu KITV - Honolulu LA Cellular Motorola Oceanic Cable Outrigger Hotels and Resorts Star Bulletin Starr Seigle Advertising
Hawai‘i Pacific University provides graduate students with comprehensive support services, modern learning facilities, and convenient course offerings. Professional advising staff in the Center for Graduate and Adult Services are available to assist students with degree planning and course registration. All accepted students are sent a new Student Planning Guide which contains important information for new graduate students. Applicants interested in learning more about Hawai‘i Pacific University are encouraged to talk to a faculty member, meet with an academic advisor, or attend a class. Simply contact the Graduate Admissions Office to schedule an appointment and experience firsthand the excellence of Hawai‘i Pacific University’s Communication program.
Financial Aid Tuition for the Communication program is priced per credit. You may be eligible for a variety of needbased and non-need-based aid programs, including scholarships, grants, and loans. You may also select from a variety of payment plans. Inquiries for financial aid and scholarships can be directed to the Graduate Admissions Office.
Stryker Weiner and Yokota Public Relations Time Warner U.S. Army U.S. Navy Verizon
For more information or to request a campus visit, please contact: Hawai‘i Pacific University Graduate Admissions 1164 Bishop St., Suite 911 Honolulu, HI 96813 Phone: (808) 544-1135 Toll free: (866) Grad-HPU E-Mail: graduate@hpu.edu
Go Online for: • Applying for financial aid • Scholarships • Library services • Tuition costs
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The Graduate Faculty
“A Masters in Communication should do three things. It should expose you to the breadth and depth of the discipline, alert you to the new developments in the area, and refine your critical-thinking skills. In many ways the third is the most important in the long run. We know in the next 10 years our field and the technology in it will be very different. What graduates need, with the proper background, is the criticalthinking skills needed to handle these challenges. Your company can teach you how to use a machine. They can not teach you how to think. A master’s degree should be evidence that you can.” Dr. John Hart, Professor of Communication
rofessors in the MA/COM program are committed teachers, mentors, and scholars. All graduate faculty in the College of Communication have attained the highest possible academic degree in their field. Teaching is the primary responsibility of the faculty. They also have practical experience in fields as varied as radio production, publishing, corporate communication, and professional writing. Their experience brings a professional dimension to classroom instruction at HPU. Faculty members establish lasting, close relationships with their students. The faculty commitment to student learning allows for many opportunities to work individually with a faculty member on a formal and informal basis on a variety of communications related projects. HPU is a teaching institution where scholarship is valued. Communication faculty members conduct research in many fields, including advertising, intercultural conflict, and visual symbolism. Their exploration of communication codes, technology and media effects enriches the learning experience and keeps it current.
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John Barnum, Ph.D. The University of Texas at Austin
Matt George, Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley
Malia J. Smith, Ed.D. University of Southern California
Peter Britos, Ph.D. University of Southern California
John Hart, Ph.D. The University of Kansas
James Whitfield, Ed.D. Texas Tech
Brian Cannon, Ph.D. Regents University
Serena Hashimoto, Ph.D. European Graduate School
Steve Combs, Ph.D. University of Southern California
Laurence LeDoux, D.A. The University of Oregon
John Windrow, M.A. University of Missouri/ University of Minnesota
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Admission Requirements Students may start the MA/COM program in the fall, spring, or summer II terms.
When reviewing an application for graduate admission, the Admission Committee considers several factors including: • Completion of a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) from an accredited college or university • Undergraduate grade point average • Letters of recommendation • GRE results (if applicable) • Work experience (if applicable) • Personal statement/essay (Students interested in starting the MA/COM program immediately following their undergraduate program should apply in their senior year.) A holistic approach is used, and no one factor will exclude an applicant from consideration. The University is seeking students who have demonstrated the ability and motivation to do graduate-level work.
Applicants to HPU’s graduate programs may submit their applications online at www.hpu.edu/grad
Once accepted, applicants to Hawai‘i Pacific University have access to HPU Pipeline, the online resource for services and information.
Hawai‘i Pacific University reviews applications on a “rolling” admissions cycle. An admission decision is made after the required documents for an applicant have been received. However, it is highly recommended that a student begin the admission process at least three months prior to the start of the term in which the applicant wishes to begin graduate studies. For policy on graduate level transfer credits, contact the Graduate Admissions Office. Application Procedures All applicants must submit the following documents to the address shown below: • A signed and completed application form • U.S. $50.00 nonrefundable application fee • An official/certified transcript from every college or university attended, showing coursework, grades, and conferral of bachelor’s degree. Official transcripts must be sent directly from the college or university to Hawai‘i Pacific University. Applicants may also submit official transcripts in envelopes sealed by the college or university. • Two original and current letters of recommendation submitted by individuals who can attest to your ability to do graduate work (e.g. former professors, academic counselors, employers, business colleagues). Recommendation forms and military evaluations may be used in lieu of letters. • Personal Statement/Essay describing academic and career goals • Resume (optional) • Applicants to Hawai‘i Pacific University’s graduate programs who have taken the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) should have their scores sent directly to the Graduate Admissions Office.
Additional Requirements for International Students: • Mail certified copies or have official copies of transcripts sent directly from postsecondary school or testing authority, including an English translation. • Submit a completed and signed Hawai‘i Pacific University Statement of Financial Sponsorship Form. • Submit an original or certified copy of a bank statement or letter showing that you, your sponsor, or guardian(s)have an account which provides sufficient funds to cover at least one year of study at Hawai‘ Pacific University. (This is a requirement of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement). • English Proficiency Requirements: HPU requires a TOEFL score of 80 (iBT), 550 (PBT) or IELTS score of 6.0 overall and a 5.5 on each band, OR completion of Level 112 at the ELS Language Center located on the Hawai‘i Pacific University Campus. Students without the requisite TOEFL or IELTS score should submit applications to ELS and HPU. Students in ELS levels 110, 111, and 112 may enroll concurrently in HPU evening courses. Accepted international students must then take the following documents to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country to apply for an F-1 Student Visa: Letter of Acceptance to Hawai‘i Pacific University, I-20 form issued by Hawai‘i Pacific University, copy of the Financial Sponsorship Form, original and current bank statement showing sufficient funds (as above), and TOEFL results, if applicable. Send application and documents to the address shown below.
For more information or to request a campus visit, please contact:
Hawai‘i Pacific University Graduate Admissions Office 1164 Bishop Street, Suite 911 Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813 Tel: (808) 544-1135 Toll free: 1-866-GRAD-HPU (U.S. & Canada) Fax: (808) 544-0280 E-mail: graduate@hpu.edu Web site: http://www.hpu.edu/macom
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ACCREDITATION: Hawai‘i Pacific University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The University is a member of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), and is recognized by the Hawai'i Commission on Postsecondary Education. The Nursing Program is approved by the Hawai‘i Board of Nursing and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The Teacher Education Program is approved by the Hawaii Teachers Standards Board (HTSB).
FACULTY: 271 part-time, 326 full-time. Student/faculty ratio is 15:1. Average graduate class size is less than 15. Eighty percent of the faculty hold the doctorate degree or its equivalent.
GRADUATE PROGRAMS Master of Business Administration (MBA) Master of Education in Secondary Education (M.Ed.) Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) Master of Science in Marine Science (MSMS) Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Master of Social Work (MSW) Master of Arts in Communication (MA/COM) Master of Arts in Diplomacy and Military Studies (MA/DMS) Master of Arts in Human Resource Management (MAHRM) Master of Arts in Global Leadership and Sustainable Development (MA/GLSD) Master of Arts in Organizational Change (MA/OC) Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language (MATESL)
STUDENTS: Approximately 7,000 undergraduate and 1,200 graduate students from all 50 states and from over 100 countries around the world.
LOCATIONS: Hawai'i Pacific University combines the excitement of an urban downtown campus with the serenity of a traditional campus. The main campus is located in downtown Honolulu, the business and financial center of the Pacific. Eight miles away, situated on 135 acres in Kane'ohe, the Hawai'i Loa campus is the site of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the College of Natural and Computational Sciences. HPU is also affiliated with the Oceanic Institute, a 56-acre aquaculture research facility at Makapu'u Point, which offers students research and hands-on opportunities. These three distinctive sites are conveniently linked by shuttle.
Hawai‘i Pacific University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, religion, disability, age, or any other protected class under state and federal laws and regulations in any of its policies, procedures, programs, or practices. 10/10