Curriculum

Executive Hybrid Path

• 36 points (credits) for degree completion
• Hybrid on-campus and online instruction
• Fall intake only
• Four consecutive terms to complete*
• Capstone Project

* 4-day intensive study each fall on campus; monthly Saturday and Sunday sessions during the fall and spring semesters; summer and fall electives.

Curriculum for Incoming Fall 2024 Students

Curriculum for Incoming Fall 2023 Students

International students are responsible for ensuring they have read and understand the University’s student visa application eligibility and requirements. Please note that it is not permissible to enroll while in B-1/B-2 status. Enrollment in the program does not fulfill the requirements for an F1 student visa.

Columbia’s Master's in Strategic Communication program embraces a “scholar-practitioner” approach to learning where you will learn both classical and modern approaches to communication and apply them through simulated and real-world scenarios.

In addition to a multi-day “intensive” session on campus each August, students attend monthly on-campus sessions during the Fall and Spring semesters. Students also attend live online classes, typically two per week, as well as complete online work, and team and individual assignments. On-campus attendance is required for all intensive study, as well as on-site weekend sessions.

The program’s wide and varied range of electives gives students the opportunity to take classes at the School of Professional Studies outside of the program and elsewhere at Columbia. Through their elective selections, students can craft a path of study aligned with specific interests and objectives. During the summer semester, electives are offered in a range of formats to provide maximum flexibility. Please note not all electives are offered every semester, and not all electives are offered in all formats. Many electives bring together students from all formats of the Strategic Communication program, providing additional opportunities for networking and relationships.

In order to receive the M.S. in Strategic Communication degree, students must complete all requirements of the degree (36 points/credits) within 16 months with an overall grade point average of 3.0 (B) or better.

Time Commitment

Work Outside of Class

When not meeting on campus, students are required to be active through our online platform. They should be prepared to spend 10–15 hours outside of class every week to complete assigned readings, work on projects, and participate in work groups.

Activities during intensive study and weekend sessions connect directly to the other program components. Therefore, full participation is critical for degree completion. The online component is separate from and does not substitute for the in-person intensive study or weekend sessions.

Intensive Study Dates