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Applications for 2024 Columbia Summer Session programs are now open!

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New Part-Time Hybrid M.S. Available

The part-time Master’s degree in Strategic Communication has moved to a primarily-online format for working professionals based in or outside of the New York City area.
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Master of Science in Strategic Communication: Full-Time Path

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Full-Time On Campus

Business’s 24/7 communications challenges are demanding a new level of strategic thinking. Columbia University’s Master of Science in Strategic Communication positions you to fill that need. Graduates acquire and develop all the essential skills and tools for a successful career in a wide range of communication fields. Classes take place on Columbia’s New York City campus and most students complete the program in 16 months (with or without a summer “Practicum:” a graduate-level internship). An accelerated 12-month version of the degree is also available, but it does not permit an internship.

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At a Glance


In This Full-Time Master’s Program, You Will…

  • Learn the communication skills that employers value most, including the strategic approaches, analytical frameworks, and organizational mindset you will need to advance in your career.
  • Discover how to apply communication strategy to support or affect organizational outcomes at the highest levels.
  • Gain the confidence and skills to become a change agent in your organization and in the world.
  • Develop effective communication strategies through advanced analytical skills, stakeholder assessment, storytelling know-how, research tool design and evaluation, and digital strategy.
  • Gain access to elective classes in other School of Professional Studies programs and elsewhere at Columbia, aligning your path of study with specific interests and objectives.
  • Have numerous learning opportunities outside the classroom, including supplemental seminars and workshops such as the Strategic Communication Speaker Series.
  • An in-depth Capstone Project with a real organization, real research and recommendations, and a presentation to senior executives at the organization.


Program Features Include…

  • An innovative curriculum that marries academically rigorous foundational work with the most current topics in the field.
  • An esteemed faculty of scholar practitioners who are leaders in their fields.
  • A personal, high touch, curated academic experience featuring small class sizes, and individualized feedback.
  • Entrance into a supportive community of faculty, staff, alumni, and industry insiders.
  • Networking opportunities with senior industry executives and potential employers.
  • Access to Columbia’s resources, career guidance, global alumni network, and location in New York City, the communications capital of the world.
  • Real world experience with an optional practicum (a graduate-level internship), available to full-time students, which enables you to put your skills to use as a fully functioning member of a communication team, expanding your résumé, building a network of contacts, and gaining a competitive edge.

Who Should Apply?

An outstanding undergraduate academic record is required for admission, regardless of experience. Strong applicants are critical thinkers, with a bachelor’s degree in a field that requires analytical writing skills.

For the full-time program option, most candidates have at least 1-2 years of professional experience in a communications role or are career switchers. Successful candidates with less than 2 years of full-time professional experience have strong internship experience with multiple relevant internships.

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Learn more about Strategic Communication at Columbia University School of Professional Studies, or contact the program admissions counselor.

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As admissions to our programs are highly competitive, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Learn more about the application process, deadlines, and requirements.

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