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Assistant Professor Dalton, Chairperson, 400B New Academic Building, (516) 463-5427

Professors Merrill, Sloyer
Associate Professors Russell, Sobnosky, Trasciatti

Speech Communication, Rhetoric, and Performance Studies Courses 

Speech Communication, Rhetoric, and Performance Studies Programs 

The philosophy of the Department of Rhetoric is based on the recognition that our society is enmeshed in an all-encompassing, interdependent, and ever-expanding web of human and technological communication. Students who major in or take courses in this department learn how the communication process works in interpersonal and group settings, in formal organizations, and in public communication situations. The primary goals of the curriculum are to develop competencies in observing, analyzing, and evaluating communication practices; develop knowledge about human communication theory; and  develop communication skills in a variety of settings. The Department of Rhetoric offers a Master of Arts degree  both for those students intending to pursue doctoral work and for those for whom an M.A. will be the final degree. The program provides a strong liberal arts background that can be applied to a variety of professional fields, such as business, education, and government. Examples of specific career applications include communication training and development, conflict management and resolution, law, corporate and public advocacy, and public performance.

Students receive a great deal of individual attention from faculty and have considerable flexibility in tailoring a course of studies to fit their individual needs. Part-time students are welcome to apply, and most classes are scheduled in the evening to accommodate those with daytime employment.

Students may concentrate either in Rhetorical Studies or in Performance Studies. In addition, students may choose a cognate area outside the School of Communication, such as political science, history, English or comparative literature.

Students may choose either a final project or a traditional thesis.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students must complete and return an application to the Dean of Graduate Admissions, 126 Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11549-1260.

The application process includes:

1. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
2. Transcripts from all previously attended institutions of higher education.
3. Two letters of recommendations from faculty who can write in support of the applicants scholarship and potential ability to complete graduate level work.
4. A writing sample (academic or professional).
5. In order to be adequately prepared for graduate study, entering students should have taken at least 15 semester hours in the following undergraduate communication courses, earning at least a 3.0 GPA:

3 s.h. in basic oral communication (theory and practice)
3 s.h. in public speaking
3 s.h. in performance studies
3 s.h. in interpersonal communication
3 s.h. in rhetorical studies (in addition to public speaking)

Financial Assistance

A limited number of partial scholarships are awarded for qualified students. Other student aid in the form of loans and work-study program may also be available.

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