Through a curriculum aligned with the latest communication practices and theories, the MS in Communication program prepares students for challenging careers in marketing, public relations, social media, and related fields. Coursework focuses on how to create engaging messages for local, national, and global audiences and translate that messaging into various media. Students also explore how to strategize, execute, and measure integrated communication plans using both traditional and digital channels.
Note on Accreditation
At the master’s level, Walden University’s Master of Business Administration (MBA), MS in Accounting, and MS in Finance are the only programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The MS in Communication is not accredited by the ACBSP. Please visit our Accreditation page to see the list of Walden accreditations.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the MS in Communication program will be prepared to:
- Critically analyze media from producer and consumer perspectives.
- Apply communication theories and principles effectively.
- Use appropriate traditional and digital media to attain desired results.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how the regulatory environment impacts the communication field.
- Evaluate communication plans and activities.
- Implement communication plans and activities that will result in achievement of organizational goals.
- Practice ethically in the field of communication.
- Communicate professionally with stakeholders.
- Use the creative process to solve organizational issues.
Degree Requirements
- 30 total credits
- Core Courses (24 semester credits)
- Elective Course (3 semester credits)
- Capstone Course (3 semester credits)
Curriculum
Core Courses (24 semester credits)
Elective Course (3 semester credits)
Students select one course from the list of electives.
Capstone Course (3 semester credits)
Course Sequence
The recommended course sequence is as follows:
| Semester | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 |
COMM 6100 - Communication Theory in Practice: Here and Now |
3 semester credits |
|
COMM 6110 - Media Effects: Mass Media in Modern Society |
3 semester credits | |
| Semester 2 |
COMM 6130 - Communicating Using Social and Digital Media |
3 semester credits |
|
COMM 6150 - Interpersonal Communication |
3 semester credits | |
| Semester 3 |
COMM 6160 - Creative Strategy and Execution: From Brief to Presentation |
3 semester credits |
|
COMM 6170 - Public Relations Concepts and Strategy |
3 semester credits | |
| Semester 4 |
COMM 6190 - Marketing Communications, Storytelling, and Persuasion |
3 semester credits |
|
COMM 6180 - Crisis Communication |
3 semester credits | |
| Semester 5 | Elective Course | 3 semester credits |
|
COMM 6900 - Communication Capstone |
3 semester credits |