Bachelor of Arts/Master of Science in Professional Communication, BA/MSPC

Overview

The Master of Science in Professional Communications (MSPC) is offered by the School of Professional Studies (SPS) at Clark University. The MSPC curriculum is designed to enhance communication skills and managerial techniques through courses that integrate theoretical models with practical application methods. This degree provides the essential skills in three concentrations: Digital Media, Communication Leadership and Strategic Communication. Students may further specialize in such areas as: project management, communication design, interpersonal communication, social media marketing, and intercultural management in organizational operations.

Departmental Eligibility Requirements

The MSPC is open to students from any Clark undergraduate major. Students with fewer than three years professional work experience will be strongly encouraged to complete a one semester credit bearing internship, which includes a required internship seminar.

Students are required to meet with the MSPC Accelerated Degree Program adviser as a formal part of the admissions process. This meeting is intended to assist prospective students in assessing the appropriateness of the degree to their professional aspirations. The student applies to the MSPC program by completing the Online Application no later than May 1 of the junior year. Please note that application deadlines differ for students who are graduating off cycle (either a semester early or late) or who have advanced standing; such students should contact Graduate Admissions for alternative dates.

Program of Study

The MSPC is comprised of 12 graduate courses, including required foundation courses (7) and electives (5). The required foundation courses are:

• MSPC 3070 - Organizational Communication   
• MSPC 3250 - Communication Theory  
• MSPC 3300 - Professional Communication Seminar   
• MPA 3320 - Ethics and Professional Life  
• MSPC 3760 - Contemporary Issues in Communication  
• MPA 3900 - Research Methods and Strategies  
• MSPC 3999 - Capstone Practicum  

Senior Year:
Students must take two MSPC foundation courses during their senior year. Selection of these courses should be made in conjunction with the MSPC Program Advisor.

Summer between Senior Year and Graduate/ Fifth Year:
In order to complete the remaining ten courses with in the fifth year it is recommended that students take two courses and/or the internship during this summer.

Graduate/Fifth Year:
During the Fifth Year the remaining courses should be completed. No more than 10 of the required courses may be taken in the fifth year.

Fees

Students will pay a one-time program fee of $1,000 in the first semester of graduate study.  Students also pay a $15 activity fee in the fall and spring semesters as well as a one-time enrollment fee of $200.  Students are responsible for paying for housing, food, books, and other personal items.

Program Advisor

Students are required to meet with the designated program advisor and have them sign the Accelerated Degree Program Advisor Form.  The signed form confirms the student and program adviser have discussed the requirements of the program.  This form is available on the Graduate Admissions website.

The designated program advisor is:

John Chetro-Szivos
Jonas Clark Hall Room 111
School of Professional Studies
508-793-7218
jchetroszivos@clarku.edu

Once you have started your fifth year, you may be assigned a different academic advisor.

Any students considering applying to the Accelerated Degree Program should read and understand the Accelerated Degree Program Policies and Procedures.

Advice for prospective students
The MSPC degree program students are a mix of recent undergraduate degree holders and working professionals. The teaching methods in the degree program are designed to be highly interactive and project-oriented supplemented by theory and current practice readings and lectures. The program works best for students who are clear about their career goals and how the degree can help them attain their professional objectives.