Blending the most up-to-date theories and practices of communication with an examination of leadership concepts and actions, the master’s in Communication and Leadership Studies provides students with the tools for tackling the task of external and internal communication in modern organizations and social systems. Graduates gain the ability to:

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of communication theory and how to use it effectively for different settings
• Exhibit top skills in public speaking, small group dynamics, writing and multimedia
• Understand and analyze the influence of communication and communication technologies in the U.S. and around the world
• Appreciate the role of ethics in the field and develop a coherent ethical philosophy for communicating and leading others

This degree has career applications in any field or industry where information needs to be disseminated strategically and thoughtfully, including broadcasting, public relations, politics, media management, marketing, human resources and public administration.

Emphasis in International Media and Intercultural Communication
This optional 12-credit international project-based program brings MA in Communication and Leadership Studies students to Italy to study communication in another culture. Students will use the town of Cagli, a small town in the Marche region of Italy, as a classroom and lab where they will create a multimedia project that explores life and culture there. By taking part in interviewing, storytelling, writing, photography and web design, students will build a comprehensive and integrated set of communication skills that are in great demand in today’s workplace.

For this emphasis, students take two classes in Italy over a two-and-a-half week period, followed by two online classes.

**The Emphasis in International Media and International Communication is a unique opportunity for students in the Master of Arts in Communication and Leadership Program to study and earn a respected credential in a growing and increasingly vital aspect of their field.
 

Gonzaga Testimonials

I was not really expecting to get the degree of interaction and connection that you actually get online. I really felt that I established a relationship with the faculty as well as my fellow students. And that was quite a surprise, but definitely a pleasant surprise.
The communication aspect of the program was spot on to what I do every day. And the leadership component, I feel, really helped me become a more well-rounded leader.
Sophie Harbert, MA – Communication & Leadership Studies, Gonzaga

The faculty that taught my courses, they were fantastic. It was really nice to be able to talk to them. And I still go back to them and ask them questions. Or I'll be writing a case study for work, and I'll talk to them and interact with them, even now that I'm done with the program. So it's great.
Jesse Miller, MA – Communication & Leadership Studies, Gonzaga

All of the faculty I've had have been fantastic and all very I wouldn't say accommodating as far as-- they hold you to the standards just like every other teacher in regular classes and I like that. They're all very helpful and available.
Ashlee Tate, MA – Communication & Leadership Studies, Gonzaga