Master of Science in Strategic Communication: Full-Time Path
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.
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.
Connect with Us
Learn more about Strategic Communication at Columbia University School of Professional Studies, or contact the program admissions counselor.
Request more informationStudy with Us
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.
Learn moreApply
We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Request Information
Stay in the know with updates sent straight to your inbox.