Frequently Asked Questions

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I have some junior-level experience in communications outside New York City. Which program is more appropriate for me, Communications Practice or Strategic Communications?

The Communications Practice program is appropriate for people with little or no communications experience, or those looking to make a career change without a communications background. Successful applicants to the Strategic Communications program have at least three years experience in a communications function.

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I am currently an undergraduate student and am considering applying to this program. If I would like to pursue my communications career in a location other than New York City, is the program still appropriate for me?

Yes, the skills acquired, and experience gained by studying in New York City can be applied and will be recognized anywhere.

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Will this program provide me with practical skills?

This program will provide you with the skills needed to understand the communications industry and to function successfully in a variety of roles in a communications department. However, since students will not be working during their first two terms of study, the summer internship is the first opportunity to practice skills and be exposed to a functioning communications team within an organization.
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Why should I choose Columbia’s program over one with a longer track record?

The M.S. in Communications Practice degree teaches the transferrable skills that are most attractive to employers including critical thinking, collaboration, reasoning, persuasion, ethical judgment, writing and complex problem-solving.
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Do I need to know what specialization I’m interested in before beginning the program?

You may have an interest in pursuing a particular specialty but it is not necessary. The early coursework will expose students to a variety of work environments, as will the internship, enabling you to choose a concentration for your final semester.
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Which majors are the most appropriate for preparation for this program?

Having studied communications is not critical or necessary. Since we value the ability to examine, analyze and synthesize a variety of topics, what’s most important is having the skills and desire to write thoughtfully and possess a curiosity that allows you to dig deeply into a subject to find insight and meaning.
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How do you keep the curriculum current?

The faculty work in the industry, interact with colleagues, have access to research and best practices, and meet regularly to keep content current.
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What are the prerequisites for acceptance?

For details about admissions requirements, a complete checklist of application materials, and instructions for submitting your application, please click here.

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How will I be able to use this degree to land a job?

Having an M.S. in Communications Practice degree will suggest to future employers that you have successfully completed rigorous study in relevant coursework at a highly respected university, completed an internship with a New York City firm, and produced a portfolio of relevant work.
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If I am admitted to the program, how long will it take me to complete it? Can I do this program part time?

The program is full-time only, and can be completed in four successive semesters.
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Is it possible to work while studying in this program?

Working full-time while studying is not advisable. However, since some classes are in the evening and on select Saturdays, it may be possible to work part-time.

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I took communications courses as an undergraduate. May I apply the credit toward this program?

Columbia does not accept credit into the program.
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Can I choose where I intern over the summer?

Columbia has strong relationships with many New York City firms. The internship opportunities will be planned with each student’s interests in mind.
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Can I intern somewhere other than New York City?

The value of the internship is in learning from communications practitioners in New York City.
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Is it possible to do the internship the summer after the second year instead of the first?

The program is intended for full-time study and the internship would normally be completed in the third semester.
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Will I get paid as an intern? How many hours a week will the internship require?

You will receive academic credit for the internship, but it’s possible that a stipend will be offered by the recruiting firm. The internship is intended to be a full-time experience (over the course of three months), although actual hours will depend on the firm.
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How selective is the program?

We are looking for a select group of students who wish to be challenged, and are able to sustain intellectually rigorous study.
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How big are the classes?

Each cohort has 12-15 students who move through the program together.

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Do I need to take the GRE? Is an interview required also?

Yes, the GRE is required for this program. The admissions committee pays particular attention to the analytical writing score. An interview is also required.
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Is this program available to international students? Can I get a visa?

This program is offered on a full-time only basis. As such, international students enrolled in the program are eligible to receive a student visa.

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Do I have to begin the program in the fall?

Fall 2013 is currently the only semester for which we're accepting applications.

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Does this program provide housing?

Columbia does not provide housing for Communications Practice students. However, students may find off-campus housing at http://facilities.columbia.edu/housing/overview-2.

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Are non-degree students accepted?

No, the program isn’t accepting non-degree students.
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I have questions that have not yet been answered. What should I do?

If you have questions about the M.S. in Communications Practice program, please contact Trudi Baldwin, the program director, at tb293@columbia.edu. If you have general questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Admissions at 212-854-9666.

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How does the program assist students with career development?

The Office of Student Life and Alumni Relations at the School of Continuing Education and Columbia’s Center for Career Education (CCE) assist students with their career development through a variety of career programs, services and resources, which are highlighted here. Students will also meet communications executives from many New York City firms, and attend workshops and seminars where there are opportunities to hear about job opportunities. Additionally, the internship program is designed to provide access and exposure to potential jobs.

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