Media & Strategic Communication
The M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication is geared toward aspiring media and political communication experts. The program blends analytical and applied skills, giving students a grounding in the function and influence of the media. The most comprehensive strategic communication program in the heart of Washington, D.C., this graduate program prepares students to achieve advocacy goals in today's fast-paced media environment.
In this program students will learn to design and implement campaigns, develop messaging to target audiences, support campaigns, and encourage action. You will perform analytics and data analysis and learn how to apply insights from media effects, public opinion and persuasion. You will gain the knowledge to advance your career in fields of public and non-profit management, government media relations, academia or even public relations and communications consulting.
The flexible curriculum allows students to focus their studies on sustainability, science, public health, peacebuilding, or other public affairs issues.
Please contact Student Services Specialist Anna Camp with any questions at [email protected].
Recent Employers
- Pew Research Center
- Politico
- Department of State
- Fleishman Hillard
- U.S. House of Representatives
- CNN
- NowThis
- Deloitte Digital
- Finn Partners
- Eckel & Vaughan
- SKD Knickerbocker
- NBC News
- Widmeyer Communications Inc
Course & Curriculum Requirements
The program consists of a total of 36 credits, and students can enroll part-time or full-time. Students enrolled full-time complete their degree in two academic years.
Capstone Options
In addition to 30 credits of coursework, students are required to complete a Capstone Project (6 credits) as part of the MA Program. Students can choose one of these options for the Project:
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Research Thesis (SMPA 6998 and 6999)
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Strategic Communication Project (SMPA 6220 and 6298)
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Media Project (SMPA 6297 and 6298)
Admissions Overview
Admission to the M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication is organized by the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences (CCAS), of which the School of Media and Public Affairs is a unit. Basic admissions requirements are addressed in the Graduate Program finder. All application materials need to be sent directly to the Columbian College as do all questions about your application. You can reach the Columbian College Admissions Office at [email protected].
The GRE general is not required. However, if you feel as though submitting scores for the GRE will strengthen your application, you are welcome to submit them.
Application Deadlines
Fall Semester
- To be considered for merit-based funding: February 1
- Regular admission: April 1
Spring Semester
- International students requiring a student visa: September 15
- Regular admission: October 1
Fellowship Opportunities
We know that attending graduate school can be a big decision, especially when it comes to financing your education. The Media and Strategic Communication program offers competitive merit-based award packages to admitted students and a variety of scholarship options for current students. Prospective students may also contact the CCAS graduate student funding website to explore additional funding options. The Office of Student Financial Assistance administers financial aid to graduate students.
Please don’t hesitate to contact the SMPA Student Services Specialist at 202-994-4079 or email us at [email protected] with any questions or concerns!