Communication, BA/MSC

Overview

The Master of Science in Communication (MSC) is offered by the School of Professional Studies (SPS) at Clark University. The MSC curriculum is designed to enhance communication skills and managerial techniques for entry to mid-level communication professionals. Classes are intentionally small, fostering discussion and interactivity. 

This professional degree is structured to provide skills essential in marketing, public relations, digital media and strategic communications management.  The fundamental learning themes in our Master of Science in Communication degree program center around strategy and planning, consumer behavior and insights, contents marketing, ethics and technological tools of the trade.  Our focus on experiential learning enables students to apply their skills in simulated and real situations, providing students highly sought-after skills that put them in a distinct advantage in the workplace.

Departmental Eligibility Requirements

The MSC is open to students in any Clark Bachelor of Arts major. Students should have an articulated interest in pursuing graduate studies and a career in Communications.

Students are required to meet with the MSC 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 MSC 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.

Internship

Completion of an approved non-credit internship is required. Exceptions are available for those who qualify.  Please refer to our academic policies and visit a member of our Experiential Learning team for more information.

Program of Study

The MSC is comprised of 10 graduate courses, including required foundation courses (6) and electives (4) or concentration (3) plus an elective (1).

The required foundation courses are:

• MSC 3211 - Communicating Responsibly  
• MSC 3212 - Marketing and Communication Strategies  
• MSC 3313 - Multi Channel Communications  
• MSC 3999 - Capstone Practicum  

Choose 1 of the following 2 courses:

• MSC 3620 - Cultural Diversity And Intercultural Communication  
• MPA 3050 - Cultural Competence  

Choose 1 of the following 2 courses:

• MSC 3217 - PR in the Digital Age  
• MSC 3226 - The Art of Stakeholder Management  

See full program description and requirements for information on Concentrations and Electives.

Senior Year:
Students must take two MSC courses during their senior year. Selection of these courses are made in conjunction with the MSC Program Advisor.

Summer between Senior Year and Graduate/Fifth Year:
An internship is required for incoming students and a 2nd course is recommended in order to complete the remaining courses within the fifth year.

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

Fees

This program is eligible for up to 100% tuition remission rate for a student’s fifth year graduate program.  There is a one-time program fee in the first semester of graduate study.  The student continues to be responsible for paying other enrollment and activity fees as well as their housing, books and personal items.  Tuition and fees are set annually by the Board of Trustees.

Program Adviser

Students are required to meet with the designated program adviser and have them sign the Accelerated Degree Program Adviser 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 adviser is:

Tara Mason
Jonas Clark Hall Room 111
School of Professional Studies
tmason@clarku.edu
508­-793­-7219

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

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