Trinity Washington University’s School of Professional and Graduate Studies offers an online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Public Relations that provides students with advanced knowledge of and skills in strategic communication spanning from crisis and reputation management to creative digital communication, political communication, marketing campaigns, and non-profit communication. The program is offered 100% online, utilizing accelerated eight-week terms, and consists of 36 course credits, allowing students to complete their program of study within two to three academic years, depending on whether they pursue a full-time or part-time course of study.
Students of this program take 9 course credits in multicultural media history, journalism and public relations (PR) writing, and media law. They are also required to take one 3-credit course on strategic communication research methods and 6 credits of professional skills courses that prepare them for advanced PR writing across digital platforms, public relations management, and effective campaign development. After the core and professional skills courses, students can select 9 credits, or 3 courses, of electives in areas of PR and strategic communication that interest them, such as speechwriting, social media for PR, visual and digital storytelling, strategic event planning, non-profit advocacy, social responsibility for organizations, and political communication.
Students can also complete a public relations practicum for elective credit, choosing from several organizations that have been approved by Trinity Washington University, and which give students the opportunity to work in real corporate, nonprofit, government, and entrepreneurial settings. For their final graduation requirement, students must complete a capstone that is designed to have students implement all that they have learned in the program in a comprehensive final project. For this project, students create a strategic communication and PR plan for a real organization, thoroughly researching the client’s needs, developing a plan and proposal, and presenting this plan to both the organization and faculty. Additionally, students must complete a digital portfolio that contains the work they have completed in the program, along with a reflective paper.
Trinity Washington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Public Relations
Overview
Department: School of Professional and Graduate Studies
Websites: Department
and Program
Program Format
Structure: Online program with no required campus visits
Instruction Methods: Program uses synchronous and asynchronous instruction
Campus Visits Required: No
Program Length: Program can be completed in 21 months (taking three courses per semester) or 36 months (taking two courses per semester)
Start Dates: Fall and Spring admission
Curriculum and Graduation Requirements
Credits Required: 36 credits (12 courses)
Thesis Required: No
Capstone Options: Capstone course with final project
Example Courses: Multicultural Media History; Journalism and Public Relations Writing; Media Law; Strategic Communication Research Methods; Crisis Communications; Persuasive Writing; Political Communications and Campaigns
Admission Requirements
Application Requirements: Bachelor's degree; personal statement; two letters of recommendation; current resume or curriculum vitae (applicants with a strong undergraduate GPA can inquire about waiving the letters of recommendation and resume requirements)
GPA Requirements: Minimum GPA 2.8
Testing Requirements: GRE not required
Tuition Costs
Estimated Tuition*: ~$31,320 + fees
Cost per Credit Hour: $870 per credit hour
State Authorizations: Program accepts students from all 50 states
