Faculty in the Department of Communication Studies: Rosanne Hartman, Program Director; John Dahlberg, Catherine Foster, Melissa Wanzer.
Adjunct Faculty: Neil Melbrod, Nancy Blaschak.
Faculty in the Richard J. Wehle School of Business: Michael Gent, Gordon Meyer, Gregory Wood, Howard Stanger, Ian J. Redpath, Paul L. Sauer, David J. Snyder, Erin Makarius.
Adjunct Faculty: Ray Pipitone.
Degree
The Communication Studies Department, part of the College of Arts and Sciences, offers a master of science degree in Communication and Leadership.
Leaders of Fortune 500 companies cite communication as their number one concern, spending approximately 70-80 percent of their efforts communicating. A growing number of corporate and organizational CEOs point to organizational effectiveness, intellectual capital and people as the critical elements needed to compete and survive in today’s global economy. For most businesses, this means shifting from the traditional approach of more efficient management of tangible resources to a new style, with an emphasis on intellectual capital, communication and human resources. The Communication and Leadership program is designed to address how communicative behaviors create and alter organizational processes and how organizations in which individuals interact affect communicative behaviors.
The MS in Communication and Leadership provides insight into the complex relationship between leadership and communication in areas such as building and bridging networks of relationships, communicating expectations and goals, motivating, and listening. Leaders persuade, motivate, communicate a shared vision and create an environment that enables them to lead effectively. The Communication and Leadership program blends functional knowledge and analytical skills with the ability to interact with others, understand them, interpret their behavior and communicate effectively. Graduates of the program will gain knowledge and understanding of personal leadership behaviors, advancing these behaviors to lead effectively in teams and other organizational contexts.
Students in the Communication and Leadership program will gain the edge needed for success and follow in the footsteps of many high-level corporate managers, directors of human service organizations, business consultants, and administrators of hospitals, colleges and universities.
The master’s degree program in Communication and Leadership exists to meet this emerging need for a blended approach to organizational leadership. It provides persons working in the private, public and non-profit sectors with the opportunity to learn how to become leaders. The multidisciplinary program is directed toward current and future professionals in any facet of organizational communication, organizational development, human resources or general management, management of not-for-profits, and integrated marketing communication. The program combines theory and practical experience where students directly apply their knowledge in partnerships with organizations. The MS in Communication and Leadership is uniquely positioned to make more effective and more humane leaders in the new millennium.
Communication and Leadership Mission Statement
In keeping with the Jesuit tradition and the Canisius College mission and goals, the MS graduate program in Communication and Leadership provides quality education with a strong commitment to academic excellence, creating opportunities for personal growth experiences. Such an environment actively engages faculty and students in the continuous process of teaching, learning and service to others. The Communication and Leadership curriculum encourages critical thinking and intellectual growth within a spiritual, moral and ethical frame. As a result of the Canisius experience, graduates will be active and productive leaders in the community.
Academic ExcellenceAdmission
The faculty in the Communication and Leadership program are committed to academic excellence, providing students with a quality education and creating personal growth opportunities.
Care of the Individual
Small class sizes facilitate an environment in which a dedicated faculty maintains focus on individual needs in order to attain success.
Expert Faculty
A combination of respected academics and recognized business professionals as adjuncts provides each student with the maximum learning experience.
Canisius Network
Alumni are devoted to the success of Canisius and its students while the college focuses on continuing to develop strong relationships with classmates, faculty and administration.
Objectives
The program reflects Canisius’ objectives of combining functional knowledge and analytical skills in order to effectively conceptualize, manage, communicate and enhance skills within the corporate world.
Applicants for admission to the Communication and Leadership program may be accepted as matriculants (master’s degree candidates) or as non-matriculants (graduate course credit students). In either instance, the same admission standards will apply. Prospective students must possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, regardless of major field of study, and must present evidence of their qualifications to participate fully in a graduate level endeavor. The Admissions Committee evaluates applicants on the basis of academic records with a minimum undergraduate GPA 3.0, scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT), professional accomplishments and subjective appraisal of motivation and the likelihood of successful program completion.
To qualify for admission, the student should have one of the following:
- A minimum total of at least 950 points based on the formula: 200 times the undergraduate QPA (4.0 system) + the GMAT or converted GRE score.
- At least 1000 points based on the formula: 200 times the junior and senior year QPA (4.0 system) + the GMAT or converted GRE score. The converted GRE score is calculated as follows: [(3.0 x verbal) + (2.0 x quantitative) + (100 x analytic)]/6.
- For international students, a minimum total of 600 points on the TOEFL examination (as well as appropriate undergraduate credentials).
The Admissions Committee recognizes that some applicants may wish to begin the program prior to taking the GMAT or GRE. A program candidate whose QPA is 3.00 or higher may be admitted to the program as a non-matriculating student for one academic semester. A student may take no more than nine semester hours of course work on a non-matriculating basis.
In order to apply, applicants need to complete an application form, have their GMAT, GRE or TOEFL scores forwarded from the testing service, provide two official transcripts of all college work, write a brief essay describing their interest in the Communication and Leadership program, and submit such other information as requested by the Admissions Committee.
Eligible students may enter in the fall, spring or summer semester. Preferred consideration will be given to those who complete the application process by June 15 for the fall, November 15 for the spring and April 15 for the summer.
Academic Standards
To receive the MS degree in Communication and Leadership, students must maintain a 3.0 QPA.Academic standing:
Students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average (a B average) to remain in good standing.
Students must be in good standing with a 3.0 cumulative average to be eligible to take the capstone course.
Any student receiving less than a C+ grade in two or more courses will be dismissed from the program.
A student is placed on academic probation if:
After completion of six hours of course work, the student’s cumulative grade point average falls below a 2.7.OR
Any time after completion of nine or more hours of course work, the cumulative grade point average is less than 3.0.A student may be dismissed from the program if:
A student may not be placed on academic probation more than twice.
After completion of six hours of course work subsequent to being placed on academic probation, the cumulative grade point average is less than 3.0.OR
After completion of a second semester on academic probation, the student fails to meet the minimum QPA of 3.0. Two semester of academic probation include both consecutive and non-consecutive semesters.All students must:
Meet the requirements stated in the graduate handbook for entry into the program.
Assume the responsibility of acquainting themselves with all requirements pertaining to the program of study and adhering to them.
Assume the responsibility of being familiar with their academic standing and the consequences connected to academic policy and procedures.
NOTE: For the purpose of these policies, an average, which includes all graduate coursework, is computed according to the values listed in the Academic Procedures section.
Transfer credit
Graduate course work completed by a student at another accredited college or university may be accepted for transfer credit. Students desiring transfer credit should submit a written request to the program director for evaluation. The courses will be evaluated on content relevancy to the Communication and Leadership program. No transfer credit will be awarded for grades below a “B” and not more than 6 credit hours of transfer credit will be accepted for the Communication and Leadership program.
All graduate work must be completed within five years. A student who has not taken a course in three successive semesters is considered to have withdrawn from the program. Extensions to these time limits may be granted upon petition of the student to the director.
Communication and Leadership Curriculum
Total credit hours: 36
| I. Required Core Courses (18 credit hours): | ||
| Course | Title | Credits |
| COM 602 | Organizational Communication | 3 |
| COM 604 | Persuasion and Social Influence | 3 |
| COM 610 | Leadership | 3 |
| COM 605 | Research Methods: Measurement and Analysis (Fall only, last year of coursework) |
3 |
| MBA 502 | Leadership in Organizational Behavior (Prerequisite for all other MBA courses) |
3 |
| COM 699 | Capstone (Spring only, last semester of coursework) | 3 |
II Concentration # 1 Organizational Leadership
Leaders within organizations must be able to effectively communicate organizational vision, mission and goals in relation to expectations for individual behaviors. These key elements of an organization are understood within a society’s beliefs, values, structure and practices. This concentration bridges theory and practice of communication and leadership within an organizational setting.
| Required Courses (12 credit hours, 6 credit hours elective) | ||
| Course | Title | Credits |
| COM 630 | Interpersonal Communication in Organizations | 3 |
| COM 620 | Conflict, Facilitation and Communication | 3 |
| MBA 641 | Human Resource Management | 3 |
| MBA 647 | Organization Change and Development | 3 |
III. Concentration # 2 Managing Not-for-Profits
Leaders in not-for-profit organizations must meet the challenges of fundraising, long-range planning and development in a time where competition for resources is increasing. This concentration blends theory and practice to promote learning.
| Required Courses (12 credit hours required, 6 credit hours elective) | ||
| Course | Title | Credits |
| COM 615 | Partnership and the Not-for-Profit Organization | 3 |
| COM 616 | Fundraising and Development for Not-for-Profit Organizations | 3 |
| COM 618 | Seminar: Special Topics and Not-for-Profit Organizations | 3 |
| COM 621 | Integrated Marketing Communication | 3 |
IV. Concentration # 3 Integrated Marketing Communication
In today’s environment, each marketer increasingly needs to differentiate its product or service through its reputation and within the consumers’ relationship with the brand. This new two-way communication integrates marketing tools into continuous, consistent messaging to and from customers. This IMC concentration employs theory and practice to examine how communication drives issues of branding, marketing, persuasion and consumer behavior.
| Required Courses (12 credit hours required, 6 credit hours elective) | ||
| Course | Title | Credits |
| COM 621 | Integrated Marketing Communication | 3 |
| COM 622 | Case Studies in Integrated Marketing Communication | 3 |
| MBA 506 | Marketing | 3 |
| MBA 634 | Consumer Behavior | 3 |
V. Electives:
Six credit hours from either two COM courses or one MBA course and one COM course. Students can also take courses offered in other concentrations to meet this requirement.
Other suggested offerings:
| Course | Title | Credits |
| COM 599 | Independant Study (permission by program director only) | 3 |
| COM 630 | Interpersonal Communication in Organizations | 3 |
| MBA 509 | Legal Environment and Ethics | 3 |
| MBA 510 | Managerial Environment and Ethics | 3 |
| MBA 631 | Marketing Research (survey course) | 3 |
| MBA 638 | Internet Marketing (MBA 506 prerequisate) | 3 |
| MBA 649 | Labor Relations | 3 |
| MBA 643 | Topics in Leadership, Change and Systems | 3 |
| MBA 653 | Business History: Leadership in Context | 3 |
COURSES 2010-2012
COM 599 Independent Study 3 credits
Students conduct original research or self-designed course of study within an organizational context under the tutelage of a graduate communication faculty member. Students must submit a proposal and application to the instructor and program director. Consent of the faculty member and program director is required.
COM 602 Organizational Communication 3 credits
This course focuses on the challenges of communication within organizational settings. Organizational communication theory, methods and practices are discussed and related to organizational life. The course addresses problems and paradoxes of organizational communication and the changing nature of organizational life. Specific topics include the adoption of change, conflict management, political frames, culture, leadership, group dynamics and practical knowledge and skills for communicating effectively within organizations.
COM 604 Persuasion and Social Influence 3 credits
The nature of social influence in organizations and methods for influencing others. Methods for seeking and acquiring compliance, e.g., in superior-subordinate interaction.
COM 605 Research Methods: Measurement and Analysis 3 credits
This course examines qualitative and quantitative approaches to theory building and methods of inquiry. The course will describe research issues and main methodologies used to study communication processes. The course provides the foundation material for the capstone project. Therefore, the end goal is to enable students to research, design and carry out a research project. COM 605 should be taken during the fall semester of the student’s final academic year.
COM 610 Leadership 3 credits
This course focuses on the understanding of leadership processes and behaviors. Students will reflect on past and current leadership situations to gain an understanding of leadership behaviors. Assessments and reflection will be used to create an understanding of personal strengths. There is a strong emphasis on experiential learning and reflective behavioral practices as a basis for self-discovery and change. Students will take several assessments which measure personal style and behavior. Fees for licenses, assessment inventories and feedback reports are required for this course.
COM 615 Partnerships and the Not-for-Profit Organization 3 credits
Growing and strengthening our non-profit organizations through partnerships is one of the most important strategies available to organizational leaders today. Say the word “collaboration” – and everyone knows it is code for innovation, inspiration, new funding sources and a great deal of hard work. In this course, we will blend practice and theory to gain a deeper understanding and mastery of the process of collaboration. During our time together, we will use the power of our own partnership “success stories” and “lessons learned” in order to weave together key content areas of communication, collaboration and leadership in the non-profit.
COM 616 Fund Raising and Development at Not-for-Profit Organizations 3 credits
This course will introduce students to the principles and practices of fundraising and long-term development planning in the not-for-profit organization. Blended into each topic area is the professional code of ethics, advocacy and role and responsibilities. The course combines theory and practice by using case studies, in-class small group exercises, case writing, role plays and experience sharing.
COM 618 Seminar: Special Topics and Not-for-Profit Organizations 3 credits
The seminar experience concentrates on current issues and trends in not-for-profit organizations. Topics will vary to meet the changing challenges and opportunities not-for-profit organizations face in light of political climate changes and the evolution of public policy. Topics may include community building, the role of a board of directors, women’s issues, aging, public policy and globalization. The seminar will incorporate discussion of relevant theory and topical issues leading to independent research related to the selected topic(s).
COM 620 Conflict, Facilitation and Communication 3 credits
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the process of conflict, communication and facilitation within organizational settings. It is an introduction to several theoretical frames for studying and explaining the conflict process and applies these ideas to experiences in organizations. The course content explains the role of a leader in facilitating conflict throughout the semester.
COM 621 Integrated Marketing Communication 3 credits
This course explores the theoretical and practical implications for managing and integrating marketing communications into commerce. A range of contemporary integrated marketing tactics and how they come together in an integrated plan will be discussed. The focus is on understanding the role and interplay of marketing, advertising and public relations in the IMC mix.
COM 622 Case Studies in Integrated Marketing 3 credits
The purpose of this course is to explore extant case studies in integrated marketing communication. The course covers major theoretical approaches to integrated marketing and organizational communication which affect the dynamic of corporate communication and marketing. Research tools will be introduced to help with analyzing and developing IMC plans and processes. Students will research and present their own case studies and recommendations for an IMC plan for a local or regional company or organization.
COM 630 Interpersonal Communication in Organizations 3 credits
Study and practice of communication in one-on-one settings which occur in business. The focus is on ways content and relationship influence verbal and non-verbal messages and business interaction and productivity.
COM 699 Capstone Project (Permission of Program Director Required) 3 credits
Academic inquiry, case study, field project or directed study under the supervision of the faculty advisor in the program. Prerequisites: COM 605. COM 699 should be taken during the spring semester of the student’s final academic year.
MBA 502 Leadership in Organizational Behavior 3 credits
Individual, group and organizational principles within a framework of high functioning and high quality performance. Critical organizational issues and strategies to effectively manage them.
MBA 506 Marketing 3 credits
This course provides a survey of the various environmental factors that affect marketing strategy decisions as well as the variety of strategic marketing decisions themselves. It also examines the research and other information gathering techniques available to managers and the psychological and economic foundations for consumer and buyer behavior. An understanding of buyer behavior is applied to the preliminary steps of segmentation of markets, targeting of segments and positioning of market offerings. The breadth of the material covered in this course prohibits an in-depth treatment in any area, yet cases and other forms of application to real world problems are used throughout the course to develop a richer understanding of the material covered.
MBA 509 Legal Environment and Ethics 3 credits
Threshold knowledge for managers of the law in areas of contract, product liability, corporations, partnerships, employment and environment.
MBA 510 Managerial Environment and Ethics 3 credits
Relationships of business and society. The emphasis is on management and the integration of ethics and social issues in daily business practices.
MBA 631 Marketing Research 3 credits
This marketing research course takes a “learn-by-doing” approach to developing a mastery of some of the marketing research and information gathering techniques available, particularly survey research techniques. The course will begin with researching managerial decision issues and searching secondary data sources to define the research problems and develop testable hypotheses. Students will then implement marketing research tools and techniques, including specifying a research design, developing a survey instrument, employing a data collection technique, performing data analysis and writing and presenting a report on this process that includes recommendations for managerial decision making.
MBA 634 Consumer Behavior 3 credits
This course focuses on the application of information from the behavioral sciences (e.g. psychology, sociology, anthropology) to help understand consumer behavior. Emphasis is placed on understanding the factors that influence consumer behavior and developing the ability to apply this information to the practice of marketing. Additionally, students are encouraged to consider their own personal consumption behavior and to identify ways they can improve their consumption decision outcomes and reduce their susceptibility to undesirable external influences. Course topics include perception, memory, learning, persuasion, attitudes, materialism, behavioral decision theory, family and cultural influences.
MBA 638 Internet Marketing 3 credits
The Internet is the first exciting, significant marketing tool to emerge in many years. Learn how companies are building relationships, promoting and selling products, gathering valuable market information, providing customer service and establishing competitive advantages online. This primer course on the Internet will lay the groundwork for a professional online experience.
MBA 641 Human Resource Management 3 credits
This course examines the critical functions and roles of human resource management (HRM) in complex organizations. Topics include the legal implications of HRM, job analysis and design, human resource planning, recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, and employee and labor relations. Prerequisite: MBA 502.
MBA 647 Organizational Change and Development 3 credits
Contemporary approaches through application of behavioral science concepts and tools. Systems concepts and operational components, need for change and development, action research and intervention strategies, overcoming resistance to change, managing paradigm shifts in organization culture. Prerequisite: MBA 502.
MBA 649 Labor Relations 3 credits
This course introduces the student to the development, structure and process of labor relations in the United States. While the main focus will be on the private sector, some attention will be paid to the public sector, especially in the area of dispute settlement. Among the main topics covered are the evolution of unions and the management of labor, labor law and federal agencies, the structure and government of unions, why workers join unions and the process of organizing, the state of organized labor and membership, the structure, process and outcomes of collective bargaining, contract administration, grievances and arbitration, dispute settlement techniques, labor-management cooperation, the future of labor in America and contemporary issues.
MBA 643 Topics in Leadership, Change and Systems 3 credits
This course explores various topics relating to systems, organizational leadership and change. Possible topics include, but are not limited to, high performance work systems, organizational culture and leadership, the gap between knowledge about leadership, management and organizations and what managers do, Senge’s fifth discipline and servant leadership. The common theme in course topics is the relationships between leader behaviors, system-level factors and dynamics within organizations.
MBA 653 Business History: Leadership in Context 3 credits
This course examines how business leaders and others have responded over time to the environment in which their organizations are embedded. In recent years, business history has shifted its focus from examining managerial choice in an environment rich with economic opportunity to examining the role of forces outside the firm that constrain the choices available to and made by business leaders. Among these external forces are the law, politics, culture, labor and consumers. Often the firm and its environment remake one another in large and small ways. In short, internal and external forces interact with the relative balance of these forces shifting over time. The focus of this course will be on US Business History from the late 18th century to the present. Larger themes include small business development and entrepreneurship, the rise of big business and management, businessgovernment relations, the management of labor and unions, and the consumer culture. Students will explore and learn the many ways that organization leaders and others responded to external environmental changes and challenges.