Combined Degree Programs
The School of Media and Public Affairs (SMPA) offers two combined degree programs that allow undergraduate students to continue their education with an accelerated master's degree. Students can earn an M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication or an M.P.S. in Political Management from the Graduate School of Political Management.
Program Options
B.A. with M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication
In the M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication program, students gain a full understanding of how political actors use communication, as well as the history and theory behind how various forms of communication affect the operation of both governmental and non-governmental organizations.
About the Media & Strategic Communication Program
Requirements and Application Process
Journalism and Mass Communication and Political Communication majors can apply to the combined program three semesters before their expected date of graduation, typically the second semester of junior year.
SMPA majors with at least a 3.5 overall GPA in the second semester of junior year are eligible to apply to the accelerated program and double count nine credits towards their undergraduate and graduate degrees. After completing their undergraduate degree, students complete seven additional three-credit classes plus six credits towards a capstone project or thesis as a full-time graduate student. Interested students should consult with their SMPA faculty advisor and our Student Services Specialist at [email protected].
- Applicants must have at least a 3.5 overall GPA
- GRE scores are not required
- Spring term applications are due by October 1
- Fall term applications are due by April 1
Application Materials and Procedure
- Two letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose describing a personal interest in and qualifications for the M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication
- Official or unofficial transcript
- CCAS Combined bachelor's and master's program application
- Submit completed application materials to [email protected]
B.A. with M.P.S. in Political Management
The M.P.S. in Political Management is offered through the Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM). It is geared toward students who are pursuing professional careers in politics. GSPM graduate-level courses offer a clear and logical extension of many SMPA undergraduate courses. SMPA undergraduate students in their third year of study are eligible to apply to the Political Management dual degree program. Admission to the dual degree program allows students to substitute two Political Management courses in place of their SMPA requirements.
About the M.P.S. in Political Management Program
Requirements and Application Process
Accepted students must take two courses in Political Management during their senior year that count toward their elective courses for the major.
- Students with a GPA below 3.0 are required to take the GRE
- GRE scores are optional for students with a GPA above 3.0
- Applications are due by June 15 before senior year
Students must take:
- PMGT 6401 Fundamentals of Political Management and one of the following courses:
- PMGT 6402 Applied Political Communications
- PMGT 6404 Principled Political Leadership