Ashland University offers a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Leadership through its College of Arts and Sciences. Offered by the Department of Communication Studies, the master’s program can be completed entirely online. Ashland University uses Blackboard Learn – an online learning management system – that allows students to access their course materials, submit assignments, communicate with instructors via email, and collaborate with peers via online discussion boards and other online technologies.
The online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Leadership requires 30 credit hours of study and can be completed in as few as 18 months by taking two to three classes per semester. Curriculum is divided between core courses (12 credits), elective courses (15 credits), and a capstone and/or internship (3 credits). The program’s curriculum blends the study of communication theory and research methodologies with applied skill development in strategic communication practices, and covers areas ranging from interpersonal to corporate communication.
Required core coursework includes classes in Strategic Communication, Leadership and Communication, Data Informed Decision-Making, and an Introduction to Graduate Studies in Communication. Through elective courses, students can explore areas in communication such as Public Relations, Organizational Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Professional Speaking, Training and Development, Risk and Crisis Communication, and Social Media Strategies. Finally, students much fulfill the final three credits of the program through a faculty advisor-approved internship and/or capstone project.
The master’s program also has an additional option for high school teachers who have a master’s degree and would like to earn credit hours to qualify to teach human communication or other communication courses. Called the “College Credit Plus” program, students complete the same five core courses as the full master’s program, plus one additional elective for a total of 18 credits. The College Credit Plus program does not require any type of capstone or culminating experience, and can also be completed entirely online.
Ashland University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Leadership
Overview
Department: College of Arts and Sciences
Websites: Department
and Program
Program Format
Structure: Online program with no required campus visits
Instruction Methods: Program uses asynchronous instruction
Campus Visits Required: No
Program Length: Program can be completed in 18 months - students have up to 5 years to finish the program
Start Dates: Fall, Spring and Summer admission
Curriculum and Graduation Requirements
Credits Required: 30 credits (10 courses)
Thesis Required: No
Capstone Options: Capstone course/project or internship
Example Courses: Introduction to Graduate Studies; Strategic Communication; Communication and Leadership; Public Relations; Interpersonal Communication; Organizational Communication; Risk and Crisis Communication; Training and Development
Admission Requirements
Application Requirements: Bachelor's degree
GPA Requirements: Minimum GPA 2.75 (GPA between 2.25 and 2.75 may be eligible for conditional admission)
Testing Requirements: GRE not required
Tuition Costs
Estimated Tuition*: ~$21,900 + fees
Cost per Credit Hour: $730 per credit hour
State Authorizations: Program accepts students from all 50 states
