Communications executives are clear about the one thing that sets their best new hires apart from the pack: top performers know how to think about any given communications challenge before they do anything. While some communications graduate programs take a "trade school" approach—concentrating on technologies and tasks that may be obsolete by the time their students graduate— the M.S. in Communications Practice provides students with the mindset and analytical skills employers value most. Students gain a comprehensive professional communications mindset—a network of intellectual skills that informs every communications action, from the most complex strategies to the most basic tasks. They engage in rigorous study that emphasizes how to think, strategize, and adapt in the rapidly changing world of modern communications. Graduates of the program jump-start their career with a solid fundamental understanding of the industry as a whole, as well as experience in a specialization of their choice.

The M.S. in Communications Practice program offers the unique opportunity to connect with innovative, experienced faculty members who work at the forefront of the New York City communications industry, and to network with top-level executives and a strong cohort of career-minded peers.

Students get relevant professional experience—and a keen competitive edge in the job market—in high-quality, resume-building New York City summer internships at a variety of New York City firms. Interns gain intensive real-world work experience, complete resume-building projects, and have the opportunity to network extensively with colleagues in all levels of the communications workplace.

“This program doesn’t just give you one skill; it gives you a basket of tools that are transferable to any industry. You are getting the best education in a city that is unparalleled in the world for exposure. These are two things that will equip you for life.”Adelina Sufian,
Class of 2011

Message from the Director

The Master of Science in Communications Practice is an exciting program that makes the best of a Columbia education available to motivated students who want a competitive advantage at the start of their careers in communications.

Our program is designed to prepare you to earn a junior position in the communications world and be able to think strategically about the work you will be doing, as well as your new work environment. This new way of thinking will enable you to better evaluate information, discuss industry issues with authority, work productively within a team, understand when and how to take initiative, and generally give you a level of confidence that makes you feel you ‘belong' in the communications field. The summer internship will provide you with invaluable real-world professional experience as a member of a communications firm in the city. The courses will give you a solid grounding in the philosophies, practices, and skills necessary to be successful not just in your first communications job, but at every level of your future career.

We're looking for committed, curious individuals who embrace change, enthusiastically consume media and news, are excited by the global possibilities that a career in communications offers, and aren't afraid to think boldly and stand behind their ideas.

Trudi Baldwin
Program Director

Who Should Apply

This is an intensive full-time graduate program for motivated individuals who seek fast-track entry into communications careers.

The program is appropriate for junior-level professionals with little or no professional experience in communications who are looking to change careers, and individuals who have some communications experience outside of New York and would like to prepare for a career-track job.

Applicants’ undergraduate study need not be in a communications field. Regardless of major or professional experience, an outstanding undergraduate academic record is required for admission to the program.

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