American University

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.A.-Communication: Public Communications

Program Description:

The MA in Public Communication at American University's School of Communication provides a thorough background in strategic communication, research methods, media relations, and message development for commercial and nonprofit organizations with a focus on new media and cutting edge technology. The program, offered either in the full-time or part-time Weekend format, provides a blend of theory and practice that builds professional skills by focusing on effective strategies to conduct and analyze communication research, produce messages for target audiences, and plan and implement media strategies in international and cross-cultural public relations contexts. Students learn from a professional faculty who not only share their own professional expertise, but also provide students the opportunity to learn from top communication experts. PC students choose electives to further develop their specific area of focus - be it government, political or public interest communication, corporate or international public relations, or arts communication. Using Washington, D.C., as its communications laboratory, SOC public communication graduate students identify, research, and execute a public communication project for a client in their area of interest.

Accreditation:

Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC)

Eligibility Requirements:

n/a

# of Credits Required:

30

International Student Requirements:

International students must demonstrate their proficiency in English with the following test scores on the TOEFL exam: minimum 100 on the IBT, minimum 250 on the computer based test, or minimum 600 on the paper-based TOEFL exam. SOC also accepts a minimum score of 7.0 on the IELTS exam. International students must have completed (or may be in the processes of completing) a four-year undergraduate degree. Three-year degrees will not be considered for application to SOC's graduate programs.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

1299.00 USD

Tuition In-State Full Time:

1299 USD

Financial Aid Offered: No

Format: Campus

Classification: Doctoral/Research Universities - Extensive

Institution Sector: Private not-for-profit

Locale: Large City

Size & Settings: 10,000 - 19,999