George Washington University

Master of Arts (MA) candidates in School of Media and Public Affairs study with leading political communication scholars and award-winning journalists. They explore how the changing media landscape affects politics, journalism, and the fundamental ways in which governments and other organizations interact with the public. The Master of Arts in Media and Strategic Communication is designed for students interested in media and strategic political communication.

Students gain a full understanding of how political actors use communication, as well as the history and theory behind how various forms of communication affect the operation of both governmental and non-governmental organizations. The focus on strategic political communication provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge as well as high-level networking opportunities to excel in a wide range of professional fields, including public opinion and policy analysis, advocacy communication, media, academia, and political public relations. The program consists of 12 courses (36 credit hours) that combine core theoretical and media skills courses with opportunities to develop an area of specialization chosen by the student. It can be completed either full-time or part-time.

Students take 5 core courses (15 credit hours) in strategic communication, media theory, and research methods and analytics. Students work with faculty advisors to tailor the additional credit hours--which encompass skills courses, electives, and the final capstone project--toward their future goals. For their capstone project, students have the option of completing a research thesis, media project, or strategic communication plan to showcase their expertise. The School of Media and Public Affairs also offers a MA in Global Communication in conjunction with the Elliott School of International Affairs.