A master's degree in communications program aims to provide you with a vast understanding and knowledge of communications theory, and will attempt to equip you with the tools to apply this theory to real-world scenarios. The program also emphasizes various skills such as practical communications knowledge, analysis, and critical thinking; all of which are necessary to implement effective communications strategies.
Educational Prerequisites for a Master in Communications Degree
A prospective student may have to fulfill several requirements set by a university or college in order to be admitted to a master's degree in communications program. These requirements may vary from university to university. In many cases, universities ask for the following prerequisites:
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A bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution
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Normally, a GPA of 3.0 or above is required
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Two or more letters of recommendation
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Official transcripts of previous high school and university or college attended
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Proof of English language proficiency in some cases
Curriculum Details and Coursework
The curriculum aims to train and develop certain skills in you, such as the ability to analyze communications problems and critically think for solutions to the problem. The coursework will also train you to present information and creative ideas in a convincing manner to various audiences. The curriculum and coursework may also introduce students to public relations, communications management, corporate communications, and advertisement. Courses may vary from university to university, but similar core courses may include:
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Research and Writing Methods
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Media Effects
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Audience, Communications, and Persuasion
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Communications in Practice
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Political Communications Campaign
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Using Social and Digital Media
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Public Relations Writing
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Intercultural Communications
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Strategic Storytelling
Career Outlook
After you successfully complete you master's degree in communications program, you may seek several opportunities above entry-level positions. Several titles may include:
Announcer
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary of announcers was $27,750 per year in 2012. The BLS projected that the number of people who work as announcers would show little or no change between 2012 and 2022. With a master's degree in communications, an announcer may have opportunities to advance to a large corporation, and may be given tasks such as selling commercial time to advertisers and creating media presence of a firm on various social networking sites.
Editor
According to the BLS, the median salary of editors was $53,380 per year in 2012. The BLS predicted that the number of people working as editors would show little or no change from 2012 to 2022. As print media faces a strong challenge from online publications, your career advancement may also depend on the type of firm you are working in, whether print media or online media. With a master's degree you may be eligible to apply for management positions with companies that have larger circulation.
Public Relations Specialist
According to the BLS, the median salary of public relations specialists was $54,170 per year in 2012. The BLS also projected that the number of people working as public relations specialists would rise by 12 percent, which is about as fast as the average of all occupations.
Writer or Author
According to the BLS, the median salary of writers and authors was $55,940 per year in 2012. The BLS also predicted that the number of people working as writers or authors would grow by 3 percent, which is slower than the average of all occupations. With a master's degree in communications, you may have gained experience to earn an opportunity to write for large companies or write for leading newspapers.