Marshall University launches nation’s first joint M.D. + M.A. in Communication Studies degree program

Marshall University has launched the nation’s first four-year dual Doctor of Medicine and Master of Arts in Communication Studies (M.D. + M.A.) degree program, a collaboration between the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine and the College of Liberal Arts. This innovative program integrates medical education with advanced communication training to help future physicians strengthen their ability to engage patients, peers and the public through clear, compassionate and evidence-based communication.

“Effective communication is at the heart of good medicine,” said David Gozal, M.D., M.B.A., Ph.D. (Hon), vice president for health affairs at Marshall University and dean of the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine. “In an era of ‘TikTok docs’ and instant information, physicians must be able to communicate with clarity, credibility and compassion. This dual-degree program reflects our commitment to producing not only clinically excellent physicians but also leaders who can translate science into understanding and inspire trust across the communities they serve.”

“This collaboration reflects Marshall University’s commitment to innovation through partnership,” said Richard G. Jones Jr., Ph.D., professor and chair of communication studies at Marshall. “We’re building a model for how interdisciplinary learning can shape the future of health care and leadership.”

Open to students entering the School of Medicine’s M.D. program in fall 2026 as part of the Class of 2030, the M.D. + M.A. in Communication Studies program enables participants to integrate advanced communication coursework and research throughout their medical training. Students will engage in studies focused on interpersonal and organizational communication, health literacy, strategic messaging, media and technology and public discourse — all essential skills for physicians navigating today’s complex health care landscape.

“In a world where a message can travel faster than medicine, this program ensures our physicians are trained to effectively communicate with their patients and their communities,” said Clinton Brown, Ph.D., assistant professor of health communication.
“Health communication is more than a soft skill; it’s a clinical competency.”

The program is expected to draw students interested in careers that blend clinical practice with leadership in public health, medical education, health care policy or media.

For more information about the joint program, please contact Nitin Puri, M.D., Ph.D., senior associate dean and chair of medical education, at 304-691-8828 or purin@marshall.edu.

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