Program Mission: The online Graduate Certificate in Communication Processes is geared towards teachers who are interested in teaching dual-credit public speaking classes at the high school level. This certificate program targets teachers who don’t wish to pursue a full Masters program in Communication Studies, or who already have Masters degrees in another area, and wish to teach dual-credit public speaking classes. By taking the courses listed below, teachers will earn 18 hours of graduate credit that may be applied toward an M.A. in Communication Studies. This online certificate program can be completed in one year with two classes being offered during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Admission Requirements: To be eligible for admission to the certificate program, applicants must meet all of the requirements for admission to the Graduate School (see “Admission to Graduate Degree and Certificate Programs”). All applicants must also submit a departmental application through MYEIU which will include:Statement of personal goals;  A resume outlining relevant work or academic experience; and one letter of recommendation.

Courses Applicable Towards the MA in Communication Studies Degree:
Courses taken towards the completion of the Graduate Certificate in Communication Processes may be counted toward the Master of Arts degree in Communication Studies.  Acceptance into the certificate program does not guarantee placement into the graduate program, however. Students in the certificate program will be required to apply separately to the MA in Communication Studies degree program.

Degree Audit: The graduate plan of study is the EIU Degree Audit, which is generated automatically at the time of degree or certificate candidacy. Modifications of the standard EIU Degree Audit are submitted by the graduate coordinator to the certification officer in the Graduate School at the time modifications are approved. The Degree Audit serves as an unofficial summary of requirements for the program. Degree and certificate candidates are advised to review the comprehensive summary of the Degree Audit process specified on the “Requirements for All Degree and Certificate Candidates” section of the Graduate Catalog. Individual programs may require candidates to submit plans of study in addition to the Degree Audit, candidates should consult with the program coordinator.

Total semester hours: 18