The Strategic Communications graduate program is designed for professionals in leadership positions across a wide range of industries having communications as a critical competency. The 16-month program focuses on the critical thinking, analysis, and practical skills essential to developing and implementing communications strategies that advance an organization’s goals and mission. The program is offered on an executive education schedule, combining on-site Saturday courses and three four-day residencies enhanced by an innovative online learning platform.

Students build a far-reaching network with Columbia’s extraordinary community of scholars, faculty practitioners, industry leaders, fellow students, and more than 300 Strategic Communications alumni who hold pivotal roles in branding, non-profit, strategy, and consulting organizations. Faculty members are expert teachers, as well as practicing professionals – and leaders – in communications.

The program teaches students how to develop effective communications strategies and to foster the thinking habits that will allow them to offer strategic counsel to any organization. Students are familiarized with the complete range of current communications tools and how to use them in an integrated, strategic way.

Who Should Apply

The Master of Science in Strategic Communications program is an intensive, accelerated, graduate-level education for motivated individuals who have already demonstrated professional leadership. The program seeks the high-potential applicant who has demonstrated substantial accomplishment in his or her field. Individuals who have clearly established their potential and who can show a strong record of professional achievement are favored.

If an applicant is currently in a communications role, a minimum of five years of experience is required. However, others in leadership roles for whom communications is a critical competency may be accepted.

Because the student mix within the cohort is a critical value of the program, we look carefully at representing diverse industries and experiences within every incoming class.

Continue to Program Details >>