What is the difference between the MA(Communication) and the MPR?
The Master of Arts (Communication) {MA} is a traditional masters degree in its structure, requiring four full-units of course work and a unit of thesis. This degree will appeal to those who have a particular research interest that will contribute to the body of knowledge in the discipline of public relations. The thesis research is located within an appropriate theoretical framework and uses methodolgy which arises out of the student's familiarity with the literature of the particular areas of study. This degree aims to provide a solid foundation for students who have the potential to pursue doctoral studies in public relations or other communication-related displines. Potential applicants who are interested in the MA(PR) should consider the academic interests of current faculty when preparing their admission essays.
The Master of Public Relations {MPR} is a traditionally-structured professional degree, in which students will complete five units of course work including a project seminar. The project involves an exploration of theory, research and practice in public relations. Students will be expected to reflect upon their learning throughout the degree to link theoretical and research ideas to practical contexts in the profession. Each project will be designed by the student in consultation with the faculty member teaching the project seminar course.
While both groups of students do essentially the same course work (electives may vary), the main difference is in the research component.
If I have an interest in pursuing the MA(Communication), how do I find information about the research backgrounds of potential supervisors?
You can view each professor's profile by going to "Meet the Graduate Program Faculty".
Are the graduate programs recognized in the field of public relations?
Graduate study in public relations is relatively new in Canada and the Canadian Public Relations Society is in the process of developing standards for graduate study. However, the Commission on Public Relations Education in its most recent report (2006) describes a model for graduate education similar to ours--preparation for potential doctoral study, advanced career preparation, or a specialization in public relations.
What is the intended career focus for each of the graduate programs?
Those with undergraduate study and work experience in public relations who are pursuing the MPR should return to the workforce with a deeper knowledge and understanding of communication and management theory, thus allowing them to pursue a more advanced practice.
Those who choose the MA should be well prepared to pursue doctoral work in a related discipline and have the research skills to become effective instructors of public relations at the college level.
What is the expected workload?
Students should come prepared to do a greater amount of reading and independent study as compared to undergraduate experience. Classes normally meet once a week in a three-hour seminar format where students analyze and discuss assigned readings. Graduate students are expected to go beyond the assigned readings to broaden their knowledge.
Do you offer any scholarships, awards or financial aid?
Public relations graduate students are eligible for any scholarships available to graduate students at the Mount. Please review the Graduate Academic Calendar for a list of scholarships available. Research assistantships are available through the Office of Graduate Studies. Once you are enrolled, your faculty advisor can provide more information about assistantships and research grants.
Do both my references have to be academic references?
For those with work experience in the field who have been away from the classroom for a period of time, one academic reference and one professional reference may be used.
How should I instruct my referees?
You should provide you referees with the reference form contained in the application package. You should encourage your referees to provide us with specific examples of your abilities, knowledge, professional experience and motivation for a career in public relations. We encourage referees to attach a more detailed letter of reference to the reference form.
Do I need the GMAT?
No, a GMAT score is not required.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline changes from year to year but is usually around mid February. Please consult the Graduate Academic Calendar for the year you are applying.
What if I missed the application deadline?
While all candidates who apply by the deadline are guaranteed consideration, we continue to review applications until the program is full.
May I transfer credits to obtain advanced standing?
If you have completed graduate curses before applying to the MPR/MA(PR), your file will be assessed on an individual basis to determine which courses might be applied to this degree.
Who makes the admission decision?
The Admissions Office will ensure that your file is complete. Complete files are then forwarded to the departmental graduate studies committee which makes the final decision.