Communication Digital Media Strategies MA

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Georgia State University

Program Overview

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Communication with a concentration in Digital Media Strategies at Georgia State University is designed to prepare students for advanced professional careers in digital communication, public relations, journalism, and media production. The programme is particularly suitable for working professionals and aspiring media specialists who want to strengthen their practical digital media skills, understand communication theories, create persuasive messages, and develop expertise in cross-platform media production and strategy.

Curriculum Structure

The programme requires a minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate coursework and follows a non-thesis curriculum. Students complete core communication courses, applied media skills courses, specialised media studies courses, and capstone digital media experiences, combining theoretical understanding with practical professional development.

Year 1: Students establish a foundation in communication theories, research methods, and contemporary media practices through 12 credit hours of core coursework. They also begin developing practical expertise through Applied Media Skills Courses, exploring areas such as digital journalism, public relations, multimedia production, and cross-platform communication. Media Studies Courses introduce students to the social, cultural, and theoretical dimensions of digital media, helping them understand how communication strategies influence audiences and public opinion.

Year 2: Students advance their professional expertise through additional Applied Media Skills Courses and specialised Media Studies Courses, focusing on digital storytelling, persuasive messaging, media analysis, and strategic communication. They complete three credit hours of Capstone Digital Media Experiences, applying their knowledge through practical media projects. Students also demonstrate their research competence by completing an approved research paper from a Media Studies course or an approved portfolio combining creative work from experiential and capstone courses.

Note: The university specifies credit-hour requirements rather than a fixed year-by-year course sequence. The above is an indicative structure, and course selection depends on availability and academic advising.

Focus Areas

Digital media strategies, digital journalism, cross-platform media production, public relations, corporate communication, strategic communication, media studies, persuasive messaging, social media communication, multimedia production, broadcast journalism, health communication, entertainment news, media research, communication theory, digital storytelling, audience engagement, applied media skills.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop advanced skills in digital communication, media production, and strategic messaging across multiple platforms. They gain the ability to create and evaluate persuasive communication campaigns, apply communication theories to professional situations, analyse media audiences, and understand the influence of digital media on society. Students also develop practical expertise in cross-platform production technologies, digital journalism, public relations, corporate communication, media research, and professional content development. The programme strengthens their ability to connect theoretical knowledge with practical media challenges and professional communication strategies.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Professional preparation: The programme is designed to prepare advanced communication practitioners for careers in digital media, journalism, public relations, and corporate communication.
Applied media training: Students develop practical skills through specialised Applied Media Skills Courses and experiential learning opportunities.
Capstone experience: Students complete three credit hours of Capstone Digital Media Experiences, applying their knowledge to practical media projects.
Research competence: Students demonstrate research capabilities through an approved research paper or a portfolio combining creative work from experiential and capstone courses.
Accreditation: No specific professional or industry accreditation is identified on the official programme page.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Career opportunities: Graduates can pursue careers in digital journalism, public relations, corporate communication, broadcast journalism, sports journalism, health communication, and entertainment news.
Industry exposure: The programme is designed around Atlanta's growing media market, providing opportunities to develop skills relevant to regional and international media industries.
Employment sector diversity: Graduates work across public and private sectors, including media-focused organisations and communication departments.
Professional development: The combination of applied media courses, media studies, and capstone experiences helps students develop practical skills for advanced communication roles.
Graduate assistantships: Students may apply for graduate assistantships by submitting an assistantship application and an updated résumé.

Employability ranking: No specific programme-level QS, Guardian, or graduate employment ranking was identified in the official university sources.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Georgia State University, the Communication Digital Media Strategies MA program is designed to immerse students in hands-on experiences that equip them with the practical skills needed to thrive in today’s digital landscape. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools that enhance their learning and prepare them for real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning through collaborative projects, internships, and the use of industry-standard software, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also highly skilled.

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

- Digital Media Labs: Students can work in dedicated labs equipped with the latest technology for video production, audio editing, and graphic design.
- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages students to engage in internships with local media organizations, marketing firms, and non-profits, providing invaluable real-world experience.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, allowing students to work together to solve real communication challenges and develop their teamwork skills.
- Industry-Standard Software: Students gain proficiency in tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Final Cut Pro, and various content management systems, which are essential for careers in digital media.
- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to media companies, advertising agencies, and other relevant organizations, giving students insights into industry practices and networking opportunities.
- Research Facilities: Access to research labs and resources enables students to conduct studies and projects that contribute to their understanding of communication strategies.
- Libraries and Resources: The university’s extensive library system provides access to a wealth of digital media resources, journals, and databases that support academic research and project work.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also significantly boost your employability upon graduation.

Embarking on this journey at Georgia State will empower you with the skills and experiences necessary to excel in the dynamic field of communication and digital media.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Communication Digital Media Strategies MA at Georgia State University equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Alumni of this program often find themselves in dynamic roles such as Digital Marketing Manager, Social Media Strategist, and Content Development Specialist. With a strong foundation in communication and digital media, graduates are well-prepared to make impactful contributions in various industries.

Here’s how Georgia State University supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates from the Communication Digital Media Strategies program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates in this field is around $55,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Georgia State has established partnerships with leading companies in the Atlanta area, such as Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines, providing students with networking opportunities and internships that can lead to job placements.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work for top organizations, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing students for real-world challenges.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Communication Digital Media Strategies MA, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Communication or a related field. This could open doors to academic positions, research opportunities, or specialized roles in communication theory and practice. Additionally, you might consider certifications in digital marketing or data analytics to enhance your expertise and marketability in the field.

By choosing Georgia State University, you're not just earning a degree; you're investing in a future filled with possibilities.