Admissions & Funding

The School of Media and Public Affairs (SMPA) gives students the unique opportunity to learn from expert faculty and high-profile guest lecturers in the classroom, mingle and hear from leaders in journalism and politics at events, and conduct research abroad.

The admissions process for the school is different for graduate, undergraduate and internal and external transfer students. We also offer a combined degree program option for current undergraduate students interested in pursuing an accelerated master's degree in Media and Strategic Communication or Political Management.

Find a Program

Journalism & Mass Communication

The Journalism and Mass Communication major and minor provide students with practical skills and an academic background in the role and effects of journalism and media messages. The program emphasizes analysis and critical thinking as students pursue the practical study of media and journalism, media law, history, processes, ethics and effects.

Political Communication

Political Communication teaches analytical, critical thinking and leadership skills that allow our graduates to go on to successful careers on the campaign trail, in Congress or in offices and boardrooms around the world. Our faculty of accomplished academics and practitioners teach students how to use media and new information technology to create and deliver the right information to the right audience at the right time.

Media and Strategic Communication

The M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication 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., the M.A. prepares students to achieve advocacy goals in today's fast-paced media environment.