MA in Media and Strategic Communication

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

George Washington University

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Media and Strategic Communication at The George Washington University is designed for students aspiring to become professionals in media, political communication, public relations, and advocacy. Offered through the School of Media and Public Affairs, the program combines communication theory, research, analytics, and practical campaign development to help students understand media influence and create effective communication strategies. Its location in Washington, D.C., provides opportunities to engage with government, nonprofit organizations, media institutions, and public affairs professionals.

Curriculum Structure:

The program requires 36 credit hours, comprising 15 credits of core courses, 3 credits of communication skills courses, 12 credits of electives, and 6 credits of capstone work. Full-time students generally complete the degree in two academic years.

Core Coursework: Students develop a foundation in media influence, political messaging, public relations, and research through courses such as Media Effects, Public Opinion, and Persuasion, Strategic Political Communication, and Politics and Public Relations Fundamentals.
Research and Communication Skills: Students strengthen their analytical and practical abilities through Research Design, Analytics and Data Analysis for Strategic Communication, and Strategic Communications Skills.
Electives and Specialization: Students select electives based on their interests or pursue the optional Climate and Sustainability Communication focus area, which includes Science and Environmental Communication and courses related to environmental science and policy.
Capstone: Students complete one of three options: a research thesis, a professional media project, or a strategic communication project. The strategic communication pathway includes Strategic Practicum followed by Strategic Communication Capstone Project.

Focus Areas:

Strategic political communication, media effects, public opinion, persuasion, public relations, communication research, analytics and data analysis, advocacy campaigns, climate and sustainability communication, science communication, public affairs

Learning Outcomes:

Students learn to develop targeted communication messages, design and implement advocacy campaigns, evaluate media effects, and use research and data analytics to understand audience behavior. The program also develops their ability to apply communication theories, assess public opinion, produce professional media projects, and create strategic campaigns addressing contemporary political, social, and environmental issues.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The curriculum emphasizes professional communication practice through applied coursework, research, and capstone projects. Students can develop practical experience in campaign planning, media production, and communication analytics. The university does not identify a separate professional accreditation for this specific master's program.

Reputation (Employability & Recognition):

The program benefits from its location in Washington, D.C., and the professional connections of the School of Media and Public Affairs. Recent employers of graduates include Pew Research Center, POLITICO, the U.S. Department of State, FleishmanHillard, the U.S. House of Representatives, CNN, Deloitte Digital, and NBC News. Graduates can pursue careers in government media relations, public and nonprofit management, public relations, communications consulting, media research, and academia.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At George Washington University, the MA in Media and Strategic Communication program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice. You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools that will enhance your learning and prepare you for a successful career in the media and communication fields. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, allowing you to apply your skills in real-world settings.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Collaborative Projects: Engage in group projects that simulate real-world media campaigns, allowing you to work alongside your peers and develop teamwork skills essential for the industry.

- Internships: Take advantage of internship opportunities with leading organizations in Washington, D.C., where you can gain valuable experience and build your professional network.

- Digital Tools: Utilize industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite for design and video editing, as well as analytics tools to measure the effectiveness of communication strategies.

- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to media organizations, government agencies, and non-profits, providing you with insights into the workings of the industry and the chance to meet professionals in the field.

- Research Facilities: Access dedicated research labs equipped with the latest technology for media analysis and communication studies, allowing you to conduct in-depth research projects.

- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from the extensive resources available at the Gelman Library, which houses a vast collection of media and communication materials, as well as access to databases and archives.

- Institute for Public Diplomacy and Global Communication: Collaborate with faculty and peers at this institute, focusing on strategic communication in a global context, enhancing your understanding of international media landscapes.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MA in Media and Strategic Communication at George Washington University equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles such as Public Relations Specialist, Digital Marketing Manager, and Communication Consultant. This program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also lays a strong foundation for long-term career growth:

- University Services: The Career Services Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events tailored to media and communication fields. Additionally, the Media and Strategic Communication program provides access to industry-specific internships and mentorship opportunities.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of graduates find employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $60,000, depending on the role and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: GWU has established partnerships with leading organizations such as the American Marketing Association and the Public Relations Society of America, providing students with exclusive access to internships and job placements.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC), ensuring that your degree meets high academic standards recognized by employers.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work for prestigious companies and organizations, including CNN, The Washington Post, and various non-profits, showcasing the program's strong reputation in the industry.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MA in Media and Strategic Communication, you may choose to pursue a PhD in Communication or related fields, which can open doors to academic positions or advanced research roles. Alternatively, you could explore specialized certifications in areas like digital marketing or data analytics to further enhance your expertise and career prospects.