Master’s in Communication in Washington, DC

American University's MA in Media, Technology & Democracy is a groundbreaking program exploring the intricate relationships between digital platforms, democratic processes, and societal communication. Students engage with complex contemporary issues like internet surveillance, media manipulation, and technological ethics through rigorous PhD-level coursework. The program offers exceptional flexibility for working professionals, providing full- and part-time study options in the heart of Washington DC. Graduates gain advanced research methodologies and strategic insights, positioning themselves for impactful careers in policy, government, media industries, and communication research.

• 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

The Strategic Communication MA at American University delivers a comprehensive curriculum designed to transform communication professionals into innovative leaders. Spanning 30 credit hours and accessible both online and on-campus, this program provides a robust framework for understanding advanced communication strategies. Students develop critical skills in practical application and theoretical frameworks, preparing for leadership roles across diverse communication sectors. The flexible learning model accommodates working professionals, emphasizing hands-on experience, strategic thinking, and adaptable communication approaches that meet contemporary professional demands.

• 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 Political Communication MA represents a sophisticated interdisciplinary program bridging political science, strategic communication, and media studies. Jointly offered by the School of Public Affairs and School of Communication, this 36-credit program cultivates expert political communicators prepared for complex advocacy environments. Students explore nuanced areas like speechwriting, social media strategy, campaign management, and political advertising, gaining comprehensive skills for leadership roles. The curriculum emphasizes ethical grounding, practical experience, and critical analysis, positioning graduates for impactful careers in political campaigns, media consulting, and public affairs.

• 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 Communication Management master's program strategically prepares professionals for complex organizational communication challenges. Situated in Washington, DC, this innovative degree equips students with advanced skills in persuasion, leadership communication, and intercultural negotiation. The program distinguishes itself through flexible thesis and non-thesis tracks, enabling students to customize their academic journey. Learners develop comprehensive strategic communication competencies, exploring message planning, implementation, and critical revision techniques. With an interdisciplinary approach, students gain competitive communication skills applicable across diverse professional environments.

• 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 Media and Strategic Communication master's program cultivates advanced expertise in communication landscape strategies. Located in the nation's capital, this program empowers students to design impactful campaigns, analyze complex media dynamics, and develop sophisticated persuasive communication techniques. Students explore critical domains including public opinion, strategic messaging, and organizational communication. The curriculum offers specialized focus areas in sustainability, public health, and peacebuilding, preparing graduates for leadership roles in public relations, government media relations, and nonprofit management. Comprehensive coursework integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications.

• 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

George Washington University's Global Communication master's program provides comprehensive training for international communication professionals. Collaboratively offered by the Elliott School and School of Media and Public Affairs, this interdisciplinary degree prepares students to navigate complex global communication environments. The curriculum integrates international politics, economics, and cutting-edge communication strategies across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. With twelve specialization options and a rigorous capstone course, students develop nuanced expertise in communicating effectively with worldwide audiences, building critical professional competencies for global engagement.

• 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