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Academics

Master of Arts in Strategic Communication (M.A.)

The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication prepares graduates by providing advanced instruction in the theories and practices related to the fast-paced and changing world of public relations. It combines theories and skills related to a wide range of communication including persuasion, message development, public relations, advertising and marketing theory, presentation skills, and applied digital media. Graduates will be well prepared to begin a career in public relations and other strategic communication-related fields. Graduates will also be well equipped to pursue further graduate study or a career teaching at the university level.

Program Specific Information: Students will complete 30 graduate credit hours with a grade of “C” or higher, maintaining at least a 2.75 grade point average. They must complete all graduation requirements within five years of being granted full admission.

All courses are offered online with the exception of one course that is offered in an online synchronous format (with an on-campus option).

DISMISSAL FROM PROGRAM

1. Students who fail to achieve full admission after the completion of two Flex Terms or nine graduate hours will be dismissed from the program.

2. Students who fail to maintain at least a 2.75 cumulative grade point average will be placed on academic probation and will be required to earn a minimum semester grade point average of 2.75 or above in subsequent semesters until the cumulative grade point deficiency is removed. Failure to attain at least a 2.75 semester grade point average may result in dismissal from the program.

3. Students who earn a grade of “D” or “F” in any one course may be dismissed from the program based on a recommendation from the Program Director and Dean.

GRADUATE ADMISSIONS INFORMATION
Cost | Admission Requirements | Transfer of Credit

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Courses

Course List

To see course descriptions, visit the Academic Catalog.

Semester 1 (Fall)
COMM 5305 Advanced Organizational Communication
COMM 5303 Human Communication
COMM 5307 Contemporary Strategic Communication

Semester 2 (Spring)
COMM 5308 Advanced Media Theory
COMM 5309 Advanced Persuasion
COMM 5310 Crisis Communication

Semester 3 (Summer)
COMM 5301 Introduction to Graduate Research in Communication
COMM 5302 Applied Media in Strategic Communication
COMM 5306 Pop Culture and Worldview
COMM 5304 Ethical Issues in Strategic Communication

Program Specific Admissions Requirements

Students applying to the Master of Arts in Strategic Communication will need to provide the following in addition to the general admissions requirements:

  • Statement of Purpose: This will tell us why you are a good candidate for this program and why this program is the most suitable one for you. You will provide information about who you are, what your academic and/or professional interests are, and how this program will add value to your goals.