Virginia Commonwealth University’s Richard T. Robertson School of Media and Culture offers a fully online Master of Science in Mass Communications. This program features concentrations in Integrated Communication and Media Leadership, and can be completed in as few as 14 months of full-time study.
Students of this program take core courses in communication research, digital production, communication leadership, and media law and ethics. For the Integrated Communication concentration, students take courses in media mechanics, persuasion, global strategic communications, creativity and strategic thinking, and special topics in mass communications. Students of the Integrated Communication concentration learn how to comprehensively design strategic messaging and persuasive campaigns while aligning with media ethics, principles, and regulations governing messaging development and distribution.
The Media Leadership concentration requires courses in media career management, digital analytics and media strategy, writing across modern media platforms, media entrepreneurship and management, and special topics in mass communication. This concentration prepares students to lead media campaigns and communication teams, and to foster equity and inclusivity in diverse workplaces.
For students’ final graduation requirement, they must complete a capstone experience that enables them to apply and demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have gained in their courses. The capstone is experiential in nature, combining research with practice to help students advance their careers post-graduation.
Virginia Commonwealth University is accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Online Master of Science in Mass Communications
Overview
Department: Richard T. Robertson School of Media and Culture
Specializations/Concentrations: Concentrations in Integrated Communication; Media Leadership
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 12 to 14 months of full-time enrollment or students can choose to attend part-time and take fewer courses per semester
Start Dates: Fall admission only
Curriculum and Graduation Requirements
Credits Required: 30 credits (10 courses)
Thesis Required: No
Capstone Options: Capstone project course
Example Courses: Leadership in Action; Media Law and Ethics; Persuasion; Media Mechanics; Strategic Communications in the Global Environment; Digital Production; Digital Management and Analytics
Admission Requirements
Application Requirements: Bachelor's degree; resume; personal statement; three references; portfolio materials from undergraduate degree or professional experience; responses to a series of application questions
GPA Requirements: No minimum GPA to apply
Testing Requirements: GRE not required
Tuition Costs
Estimated Tuition*: ~$23,574 + fees (in-state); ~$24,444 + fees (out-of-state)
Cost per Credit Hour: Inquire with school
State Authorizations: Program accepts students from all 50 states
