Communication Studies (GrDip)
Graduate Diploma (GrDip)
Offered by:Department of Communication Studies, Faculty of Arts & Science
Why pursue a Graduate Diploma in Communication Studies?
Gain hands-on experience in video, intermedia and sound production in this one-year program. Examine and evaluate major historical approaches to communication theories, as well as emerging trends in communications research methods and practice.
The Graduate Diploma in Communication Studies provides an intensive introduction to the field of communication where you will gain a deeper understanding of modern media and its many forms. Under the guidance of our dedicated faculty of distinguished researchers and creators, you will have opportunities to examine key research areas in the field of communication, such as documentary studies, feminist media studies, new media and ethics, theories of representation, and popular culture. Advance your course learning through an internship opportunity while you study.
Develop foundations in the creative, critical and technical aspects of moving images, audio systems and new digital technologies through a series of interactive production courses. State-of-the-art facilities and equipment are also available to students conducting research or working on projects, including a number of film and video editing suites, intermedia labs, and sound recording studios.
Our diverse student body is comprised of young scholars with expertise in other disciplines and working professionals who want to expand their personal qualifications in media production and theory. The City of Montreal also serves as an ideal backdrop for students interested in undertaking an internship during their studies.
Program details
Entry into the program is based on a careful assessment of the individual backgrounds and goals of applicants who possess a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) with high standing from a recognized institution in a field other than communication. Applicants are required to submit a letter of intent of no more than 600 words outlining their background, academic and work experience, and career goals.
Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the Graduate Admission page for further information on the Language Proficiency requirements and exemptions.
- Credits. Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 30 credits.
- Courses. All candidates are required to take 18 credits in core courses, and 12 credits in elective courses chosen in consultation with the Diploma Program Director. Core courses are COMS 505, COMS 506, COMS 510, COMS 562, COMS 569, and COMS 570.
Your completed application will include:
- Application form and Fee
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Three Letters of Reference and assessment form
- Statement of Purpose should outline (600 words maximum):
- Describe your academic and professional background and how this has led to your decision to apply
- Indicate how this program might advance academic and professional goals
- Identify courses in our program which are of particular interest to you
- Describe what makes you an ideal candidate for this program
- Explain why you are choosing this particular program
- Transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended
- Proof of Canadian citizenship (if applicable)
- Applicants whose primary language is not English, are required to submit official language test scores, unless exempted.
Please apply online. Read the how-to guide for application procedures.
| DEGREE |
FALL (September) |
WINTER (January) |
SUMMER (May/June) |
| Communication Studies | Diploma | Feb. 15 | n/a | n/a |
Late applications will be considered, at the discretion of the Program Director and subject to space availability.
Courses
All courses are 3-credit, one-term courses unless otherwise stated.
Core Courses (Group A)
COMS 505 Introduction to Communication Theory and History
This seminar offers an introduction to communication theory, by situating media theories and technology in their historical and cultural contexts. Through lectures, discussions, and selected readings from the works of key theorists, this course explores and evaluates major historical and contemporary approaches to communication theories.
COMS 506 In the Field: Methods in Communication Studies and Practice
Prerequisite: COMS 505.
This course offers an introduction to communication research methods and provides an interdisciplinary approach to the interaction of media, technology, culture, and society.
COMS 510 Graduate Diploma Seminar
This full-year course meets bi-weekly to introduce students to the following topics: communication organizations and their public identities, internships and professional development opportunities, emerging trends in communications research methods and practice. Representatives from industry and faculty are invited to discuss their work and future trends in media studies and practice. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.
COMS 562 Media Production: Sound
This course is designed to provide the student with a basic working knowledge of audio systems, both natural and electronic, to understand the various affective and psychological qualities of sound, and how sound may be structured into imaginative aural form. Lectures and Laboratory: average 6 hours per week.
COMS 569 Media Production: Moving Images
This course provides a foundation in the creative, critical and technical aspects of moving images, including an introduction to non-linear editing software.
Note: Students who have received credit for COMS 567 (Television) or COMS 568 (Film) may not take this course for credit.
COMS 570 Media Production: Intermedia
This course provides an introduction to new and developing digital technologies (primarily computer-based media) through historical, theoretical, and critical perspectives on media, culture, and society and includes basic concepts in software operating systems, communication design and digital media creation. Lectures and Laboratory: average 6 hours per week.
For a listing of elective courses please see the Graduate Calendar.
Current research areas include:
- cultural studies
- the nature and conception of audiences
- rhetoric
- the history of communication
- film and documentary production
- film and television studies
- feminist and postcolonial theory
- gender and technology
- media and ICT policy
- religion and media
- international and development communication
- visual studies
- semiotics of landscape and environment
- political communication
- alternative and activist media
- video advocacy
- intermedial art practices
- sound art
- video and media arts
- performance and game studies.
Many students chose to complete an internship for one course credit. More details available here.
