School of Communication / Graduate Programs
Communication Studies Graduate Certificate
Deepen your understanding of human communication. Expand your knowledge, strengthen your analytical skills, and explore communication across personal, organizational, and public contexts.
Offered by Northern Arizona University’s School of Communication, this graduate certificate provides flexible opportunities for advanced study, with online and on-campus course options.
Communication Theory
Examine the foundations, history, and major theories of human communication.
Specialized Study
Explore communication in interpersonal, organizational, and public settings.
Flexible Learning
Complete the certificate online or through a combination of online and on-campus courses.
Program Overview
The Graduate Certificate in Communication Studies provides an understanding of the breadth and history of human communication, a survey of communication theories, and a range of coursework in specialized areas within the discipline.
Students completing the certificate enhance their understanding of, and ability to articulate, the ways communication is affected by specific contexts, including interpersonal, organizational, and public communication.
The certificate is available entirely online or through a combination of on-campus and online courses, allowing students to select a format that fits their educational and professional goals.
Plan Your Application
Application Deadlines
The Communication Studies Graduate Certificate accepts applications for fall, spring, and summer admission.
Fall Admission
July 1
Spring Admission
October 1
Summer Admission
May 1
Confirm application dates and requirements through the
NAU Office of Graduate and Professional Studies
.
Application Materials
To apply for admission to the Graduate Certificate in Communication Studies, prepare the following materials.
01 / Academic Transcripts
Submit a scanned copy of your academic transcripts. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for your initial application, but official transcripts will be required before admission is finalized to confirm that you have earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
02 / Resume or Curriculum Vitae
Provide a current resume or curriculum vitae that outlines your educational background, professional experience, and relevant activities.
03 / Personal Statement
Submit a personal statement, typically one to two pages, outlining your career and educational goals, your specific interest in the Graduate Certificate in Communication Studies, and any additional information you consider relevant to the admissions decision.
04 / Two Letters of Recommendation
Identify two professionals or educators who can comment on your preparation and ability to succeed in graduate-level study.
In the online application system, you will provide each recommender’s name, professional affiliation, telephone number, and email address. After you submit your application, your recommenders will receive instructions by email for completing their recommendations.
Ask your recommenders to provide specific, substantive information about your qualifications, training, and experiences relevant to graduate education. Recommenders may complete the online form or upload a prepared letter in PDF or Word document format.
Take the Next Step
Ready to Apply?
Begin your graduate application through Northern Arizona University’s official admissions process. Review eligibility requirements, prepare your documents, and take the next step toward advanced study in Communication Studies.
Questions About the Certificate?
Have questions about the Graduate Certificate in Communication Studies, application materials, or graduate study at NAU? Contact the School of Communication graduate program.