Master’s in Communication in Washington, DC

Elevate your understanding of media, technology, and democracy with American University's cutting-edge MA program. Designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise, this unique degree prepares you to tackle complex communication challenges in democratic societies. Explore critical issues like internet surveillance and digital media manipulation through PhD-level coursework and practical research methodologies. The program offers flexible scheduling for working professionals, with full- and part-time options, and provides strategic insights for careers in policy, government, and media industries.

• 30 credit hour master's program
• Designed for working professionals
• Full and part-time options
• PhD-level communication coursework
• Research thesis project
• Washington DC location
• Online summer term
• Qualitative and quantitative research training
• Small cohort learning environment
• Flexible elective selection

American University's Master's in Strategic Communication offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for aspiring communication professionals. This program, available both online and on-campus, spans 1 year with 30 credit hours required for completion. It caters to part-time students, making it ideal for working professionals. Admission requires a statement of purpose, resume, transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and an optional portfolio. The program emphasizes practical skills and theoretical knowledge, preparing students for leadership roles in strategic communication. Tuition is based on the current cost per credit hour, ensuring transparency in financial planning.

• Available online and on-campus.
• 1-year program duration.
• 30 credit hours required.
• Part-time study option.
• Late August start date.
• Statement of purpose required.
• Resume submission needed.
• Transcripts from all institutions.
• Two letters of recommendation.
• Optional portfolio submission.
• Tuition based on credit hour.
• Prepares for leadership roles.
• Emphasizes practical skills.
• Focuses on theoretical knowledge.
• Ideal for working professionals.

American University's Master of Arts in Political Communication is a dynamic program designed for aspiring political advocates, policy-makers, and communication professionals. This 36-credit, on-campus program, offered jointly by the School of Public Affairs and the School of Communication, equips students with a comprehensive understanding of political science, strategic communication, and media. Students can tailor their studies with courses in speechwriting, social media strategy, and political advertising, among others. The program emphasizes practical skills and ethical grounding, preparing graduates for leadership roles in political campaigns, media consulting, and public affairs. Admission is open for fall and spring semesters, with rolling admissions and consideration for merit aid.

• 36-credit on-campus program.
• Joint degree by SPA and SOC.
• Focus on political science and media.
• Courses in speechwriting and social media.
• Prepares for political advocacy roles.
• Ethical grounding emphasized.
• Hands-on courses available.
• Admission in fall and spring.
• Rolling admissions process.
• Merit aid consideration available.
• Capstone project required.
• Full-time or part-time study.
• 3.5 GPA recommended for good standing.
• Expected completion in two years.
• Courses in campaign management.
• Access to AU's specialized institutes.
• Focus on persuasive writing.
• Public opinion research included.
• Online advocacy courses offered.
• Political advertising studies.

George Washington University's Master of Arts in Communication Management offers a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary program designed for professionals seeking advanced communication skills. Located in Washington, DC, this unique degree prepares students to develop strategic communication strategies across diverse organizational contexts. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, exploring persuasion, leadership communication, and intercultural negotiation. Students benefit from flexible thesis and non-thesis tracks, gaining competitive skills in message planning, implementation, and revision.

• Only DC metro area communication management program
• 30-credit total program length
• Thesis and non-thesis options available
• No GRE required for admission
• Two recommendation letters needed
• Diverse elective course selection
• Focus on organizational communication
• Fall and spring admission cycles
• Interdisciplinary course offerings
• Unique DC location advantage

George Washington University's Master of Arts in Media and Strategic Communication prepares students for impactful careers in media, political communication, and advocacy. Located in Washington, DC, this program offers a unique blend of analytical and applied skills, focusing on media effects, public opinion, and strategic messaging. Students engage in designing campaigns, data analysis, and persuasive communication strategies. The curriculum is flexible, allowing specialization in areas like sustainability, public health, and peacebuilding. Admission requires transcripts, a statement of purpose, and recommendations. International students must meet English proficiency requirements. This program is ideal for those aiming for leadership roles in public relations, government media relations, and nonprofit management.

• 36 credit program
• 15 credits in core courses
• 3 credits in skills courses
• 12 credits in electives
• 6 credits in capstone courses
• Flexible curriculum
• Focus on media effects
• Public opinion studies
• Strategic messaging
• Campaign design
• Data analysis skills
• Located in Washington, DC
• Prepares for advocacy roles
• Public relations focus
• Government media relations
• Nonprofit management
• International student support
• English proficiency required
• Transcripts required
• Statement of purpose
• Recommendations needed
• Specialization options
• Sustainability focus
• Public health focus
• Peacebuilding focus

The Master of Arts in Global Communication at George Washington University offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary program that prepares students for exciting careers in global communication across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Combining rigorous academic training with practical skills, students learn to communicate effectively with worldwide audiences. The program features a comprehensive curriculum focusing on international politics, economics, and cutting-edge communication strategies. With twelve specialization options and a comprehensive capstone course, students develop expertise in global communication while building critical professional competencies.

• 40 total credit program
• Jointly offered by Elliott School and SMPA
• 12 specialization options available
• Capstone course tests real-world skills
• Language proficiency requirement
• Core courses in communication, politics
• Skills courses in strategic communication
• Optional thesis track available
• No GRE/GMAT required
• Two recommendation letters needed