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Students pursuing M.A./Ph.D. or Ph.D. degrees gain specialized knowledge in specific fields while cultivating an understanding of diverse theoretical viewpoints and research methodologies in communication studies. The curriculum integrates both humanistic and scientific approaches through a foundational core program and extensive graduate seminar offerings, available both within the Communication Department and across other University of Washington departments. Beyond classroom learning, collaborative research teams unite students and faculty from various backgrounds to explore and implement contemporary communication theories. The program emphasizes applying this knowledge to tackle societal and political challenges beyond academic settings.
In democratic political systems, a key function of communication involves sharing perspectives on governance. The political communication curriculum analyzes discourse among citizens, decision-making processes among public officials, and interactions between constituents and their representatives. Certain courses additionally investigate communication's function within authoritarian political structures.