ODU’s graduate degree program in Lifespan & Digital Communication is distinctive in the field of communication. It is one of the few in the U.S. to focus on lifespan communication, and the only one in the U.S. that combines relational communication and digital media studies into a comprehensive graduate program focusing on communication development across the lifespan. We'll equip you, the next generation of communication professionals and educators, to innovate, imagine and create the tools, methods and solutions critical for 21st century communication problems utilizing the most up-to-date research tools.
Focus Areas include: Strategic Communication, Lifespan Communication: Relationships & Groups, Media Studies and Professional Communication.
Program Highlights
-
Study with award-winning, nationally- known communication faculty members
-
Learn to research by working directly with actively publishing scholars as well as working professionals
-
Present your papers at professional conferences internationally, nationally, and regionally
-
Get to know communication’s graduate faculty and graduate students during weekly dinners
-
Have fun with graduate faculty and graduate students during program outings while you build professional communication networks.
-
Coursework can be completed on campus or online
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Web Developers
Design, create, and modify Web sites. Analyze user needs to implement Web site content, graphics, performance, and capacity. May integrate Web sites with other computer applications. May convert written, graphic, audio, and video components to compatible Web formats by using software designed to facilitate the creation of Web and multimedia content.
Government Property Inspectors and Investigators
Investigate or inspect government property to ensure compliance with contract agreements and government regulations.
Broadcast News Analysts
Analyze, interpret, and broadcast news received from various sources.
Public Relations Specialists
Engage in promoting or creating an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media.
Alumni Careers
Requirements
-
In addition to meeting all general University requirements, an applicant must have two letters of recommendation from faculty members, or those who can evaluate the applicant's academic potential; and a 500-word essay that outlines the applicant's professional and personal goals in pursuing this degree, while explaining the relationship of these aforementioned goals to the Lifespan and Digital Communication degree program.
For Admission to the Lifespan & Digital Communications Program
An undergraduate average of at least 3.25 in Communication or a related field and a 3.0 overall.
Cost of Attendance
We believe in providing students with transparent and accessible information about the cost of attendance.
Review the estimated tuition rates for the 2024-25 academic year (subject to change). Non-resident rates are charged for anyone who is not a current Virginia resident, including international students.
Ways to Fund Your Degree
There are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending Old Dominion University, including scholarships, assistantships, and student loans. For more details about financial aid at Old Dominion, visit the Financial Aid Office page.
Take the Next Step
Contact
