The J. Warren McClure School of Information and Telecommunication Systems offers the Master of Communication Technology and Policy (MCTP), a professional interdisciplinary degree focusing on the technical, policy, and strategic issues related to telecommunication and information technologies, systems and services. Principal focus is on voice and data networks, with special emphasis on the interaction of technology and policy issues in the successful design, deployment, and operation of complex networks and information systems. 

The MCTP offers students a broad understanding of the field, from the technical underpinnings of Internet and wireless technologies to the social policy questions fundamental to universal telephone service to the business considerations involved in deploying broadband networks.

Technology topics include network theory and infrastructure, quality of service, network assurance and security, network services and IT integration, broadband, and wireless communications. Policy topics include government regulation, competition and market structures, international telecommunications, telecommunications and economic development, and social/ethical issues.

Technical and policy issues are explored from a variety of perspectives, including those of network service providers, consumers, policy makers, and managers. Industry perspectives include those of telecommunication carriers, communication system equipment vendors, and enterprise voice and data network providers.

It is possible to complete the program in one year (including summer) of residence at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, especially if the student elects to complete a comprehensive examination as a culminating experience, rather than a thesis or professional project.    Those students electing to write a thesis or do a professional project usually prefer to take longer to complete the program. 

Core courses provide a background in both technology and policy. By the end of the first quarter of enrollment, students determine whether they will complete an emphasis in technology or in policy and they work closely with a faculty advisor to design their program to meet their educational and career objectives.