MSc in
Master of Science in Mass Communication - Integrated Communication Virginia Commonwealth University - Richard T. Robertson School of Media and Culture
Introduction
More than a master’s
With the demand for bachelor’s degrees by most communication organizations and roles, the addition of a postgraduate degree helps you stand out and reach higher professional goals. Whether you’re looking for updated skill sets, making a career change, or checking off a life goal, graduates of the Integrated Communication concentration represent a new generation of communication professionals.
Our program is fast-paced, with options to graduate in 12 months or take longer for those who prefer to attend part-time. We have a fully online program with flexible course schedules for working professionals. Our graduates leave the program able to function at the highest levels of management and apply sophisticated strategic thinking to accomplish organizational objectives. The program concludes with an option for a practical capstone project or thesis. Students intending to pursue a doctoral degree are encouraged to choose the thesis option. Students looking to amp up their portfolios will choose the capstone project.
Individual options for completing the program
Please note that students who wish to embark on an individual research project may choose to do so after consultation with the director of graduate studies if they prefer that over the professional project completed in the Capstone.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
The Judy VanSlyke Turk Scholarship
The Judy VanSlyke Turk Scholarship was established in the Robertson School to honor Dr. Turk’s leadership as director of the School from 2002-2010. It was awarded for the first time in 2012.
Application questions for this scholarship can be directed to Robertson School Graduate Studies Director Dr. Karen McIntyre. Students who apply must have completed the application process and have been admitted to the Integrated Communication concentration.
Curriculum
Course Details
The Robertson School’s graduate program builds on our acclaimed undergraduate program which is at the forefront of schools nationally that require students to have experience with mass communication. Our educators are continually recognized for their expertise in media careers with experience in award-winning agencies and organizations. Our faculty utilize their industry networks to help bridge the gap between the industry and the classroom.
The degree requires 30 credit hours, all of which are in the Integrated Communication concentration.
The program is designed so that on-track students will take three courses each in the fall and spring semesters and two courses each in the summer semesters.
Degree requirements
In addition to general VCU Graduate School graduation requirements, students are required to complete 30 credit hours of specialized course work.
Curriculum requirements
- MASC 611 Communication Research, 3 credit hours
- MASC 645 Digital Production, 3 credit hours
- MASC 675 Leadership in Action, 3 credit hours
- MASC 676 Media Law and Ethics, 3 credit hours
- MASC 691 Topics in Mass Communications, 3 credit hours
- MASC 694 Capstone, 3 credit hours
Concentration requirements
- MASC 654 Persuasion, 3 credit hours
- MASC 682 Media Mechanics, 3 credit hours
- MASC 683 Strategic Communications in the Global Environment, 3 credit hours
- MASC 685 Strategy, 3 credit hours
- Total Hours: 30
The minimum total of graduate credit hours required for this degree is 30.
Program Outcome
End Result
The Master of Science in Mass Communications (Integrated Communication) is leading-edge professional education that prepares students at various stages in strategic communication careers for the highest levels of management, applying sophisticated strategic thinking and problem solving to accomplish organizational objectives. It prepares students for increased leadership responsibilities in developing, implementing, and evaluating effective communication campaigns in an environment of dynamic change and globalization.
Higher-level skills
Students graduating from this program will demonstrate higher-level skills in critical thinking.
Clear and effective communication
Students graduating from this program will master written and multimedia platforms to communicate clearly and effectively to inform and engage audiences.
Research and evaluation
Students graduating from this program will demonstrate the ability to conduct foundational research applicable to mass communication.
Tools and technologies
Students graduating from this program will be able to apply the tools and technologies required for mass communication workplaces.
Persuasion and ethics
Students specializing in this sequence will develop a working understanding of strategic message design, persuasion, and the ethical principles governing the creation, distribution, and reception of messages.
Strategic communication
Students specializing in this sequence will develop a working understanding of the strategic communications process and its impact on audience behavior and decision-making.