Strategic Marketing Communication, M.A.

The Strategic Marketing Communication master’s program prepares students for a diverse range of careers in marketing and communications. The curriculum consists of a 5+5 model, including 5 core courses and 5 elective courses. This model allows students to customize their individual program experience by selecting elective courses to match academic or career interests, bridge knowledge gaps, or build particular skill sets. The 40-credit program allows for maximum flexibility related to time, structure, and course modality. Students can enroll full-time to complete the program within two-years or even 18-months on an accelerated path, or can choose to enroll part-time and work through the program at their own pace. In-person courses are typically offered in the evening, and some elective courses are available to take in an online asynchronous format, providing flexible options for working professionals and leaving time for students to participate in internships and networking opportunities

Following are the Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for the Strategic Marketing Communication program:

• Students will learn to create cohesive communication plans for a business with positioning that resonates with their customers.
• Students will be equipped with a deep knowledge of evolving strategies and media that can be used together to tell the stories of organizations operating in a global marketplace.
• Students will learn to be marketing communication professionals who are not only great storytellers, but are also innovative problem solvers who can command today’s tools and technology and seamlessly adapt to those of tomorrow.
• Students will learn to conduct research and analyze data to identify marketing challenges and opportunities.
• Students will learn to develop marketing and communication plans that connect to measurable business objectives and integrate elements of digital advertising, social media, PR, promotion, branding, direct marketing, and more.

Admission Requirements

Students in the Department of Marketing Communication come from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. The admission committee considers the applicant’s previous academic record, test scores, prior employment experience, recommendations, leadership experiences, and other evidence of maturity and motivation to succeed in graduate studies. Applicants should have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or better. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) are optional.

Degree Requirements

The Master of Arts in Strategic Marketing Communication requires the successful completion of 40 credit hours. There are five required core courses that create the foundation of the program and establish key skills for the industry. The other five courses are electives allowing students to explore new topics, or build particular knowledge or skill sets that align with students’ career ambitions within or beyond the marketing industry.