The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) offers an online Master of Science (M.S.) in Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) through its School of Journalism and New Media. The online MS in IMC program, which offers the same curriculum as Ole Miss’s campus-based MS in IMC program, is designed for working professionals who want to develop their leadership and strategic communication skills. The online program can be completed fully online with no required campus visits.
Ole Miss uses the Blackboard learning management system for its online degree programs. While the program mainly uses asynchronous instruction, some professors may incorporate live sessions using video conferencing software like Zoom. However, these sessions are typically recorded for students who cannot attend due to personal or professional obligations.
The 36 credit-hour program requires 12 courses and is structured to be completed in two years, with students taking two courses in the fall, spring, and summer semesters of each year. Typically, students begin the program in the fall semester, but they can start in the spring or summer semesters as well.
Course offerings focus on multidisciplinary perspectives in communication and apply them to leadership and communication for journalists and professionals in the broadcast industry. These include classes in Media Leadership, Principles of Integrated Marketing Communication, Consumer Research and Insights, and Brand and Relationship Strategies, as well as a wide variety of electives. Coursework also requires the completion of a capstone class, where students use campaign strategy and strategic communication to develop a project of their own design that aligns with their professional goals. While not common for students in the online program, MS in IMC students do have the option to complete a thesis instead of a capstone project.
The University of Mississippi also offers a graduate certificate in Media Leadership. The certificate requires students to complete four courses for a total of 12 credit-hours. These courses can be completed online in as few as six months and students can transfer the credits earned to the MS in IMC program if they wish to pursue a full master’s degree after earning their certificate.
The University of Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Online Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communication
Overview
Department: School of Journalism and New Media
Websites: Department
and Program
Program Format
Structure: Online program with no required campus visits
Instruction Methods: Program prioritizes asynchronous instruction - some professors may incorporate synchronous sessions, but they are typically recorded for students who cannot attend
Campus Visits Required: No
Program Length: Program can be completed in 2 years
Start Dates: Fall, Spring and Summer admission (But Fall is the recommended start date)
Curriculum and Graduation Requirements
Credits Required: 36 credit hours (12 courses including capstone)
Thesis Required: No
Capstone Options: Capstone course with professional project or thesis
Example Courses: Principles of IMC; Design and Visual Thinking; Consumer Research and Insights; Consumer/Target Behavior; Brand and Relationship Strategies; Advanced Integrated Marketing Communication Campaigns
Admission Requirements
Application Requirements: Bachelor's degree; three letters of reference; resume; personal statement
GPA Requirements: Minimum GPA 3.0
Testing Requirements: GRE not required
Tuition Costs
Estimated Tuition*: ~$18,504 + fees
Cost per Credit Hour: $514 per credit hour
State Authorizations: Program accepts students from all 50 states
