Bay Path University's Graduate College - Online Master's in Communications Programs

Bay Path University offers a Master of Science in Communications and a Master of Science in Communications & Information Management through its Graduate College. Each program can be completed entirely online without any required in-person visits to campus. The two programs require 36 credits and can be completed in 12 to 24 months through 8-week accelerated courses. The university uses the Canvas learning management system, which allows students to access their class materials, submit assignments, participate in online discussions, communicate with peers and instructors, and more.

Master of Science in Communications

The Master of Science in Communications focuses on emerging media’s impact on communications, providing students with the ability to leverage social media platforms and practices to drive brand equity through multi-media campaigns and targeted audience analysis.

The 12-class curriculum follows a set list of courses that all students complete, and which includes a final capstone class. The coursework covers the theories of information systems and communication and provides practical, applied skill development in using social media effectively. Students learn how to analyze audience behaviors and identify trends, become familiar with Web 2.0 technology (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn), and build familiarity with a range of analytical tools that are used to create, launch, manage and evaluate social media campaigns. Example courses include Targeted Communications, Strategic Innovation, Emerging Media, Social Media Campaigns, Integrated Marketing Communications, and Principles of Communications.

The program ends with a capstone analysis course that requires students to synthesize what they learned during their master’s curriculum and apply it to a major project that is relevant to their professional area of interest. This capstone course also requires the completion of a final essay and a portfolio.

Master of Science in Communications & Information Management

The Master of Science in Communications & Information Management is a cross-disciplinary graduate program that blends the study of data, technology, project management, and human communication literacy.

The 12-course curriculum is divided between core classes (24 credits) and electives (12 credits). The core curriculum includes eight classes that familiarize students with the fundamental theories and research methods of communications and teaches them principles of collaboration in professional team settings to solve complex communication problems. In addition, students develop skills in research, learning how to organize and plan studies, gather data, analyze results, and present findings. Other major areas of study include business analytics, decision theory, behavioral economics, data warehousing and data mining. Sample core classes include Strategic Innovations, Decision Support Systems, Competitive Threats & Challenges, Targeted Communications, Applied Research Strategies, and Fiscal Management.

Through four elective classes, students can further align their master’s degree curriculum with their professional development goals and needs. Electives focus on several subject areas, including emerging media, social media, project management, and information management. Example elective courses include Project Management, Organizational Knowledge Management, Media Preferences, Cybersecurity, Social Media Campaigns, and Social Media Analytics.

The program ends with a capstone analysis course. The goal of the capstone is to demonstrate the student’s grasp of leadership and management knowledge and his or her abilities to apply that knowledge in professional contexts. The capstone includes a final essay and a major project that is applicable to students’ work experience or professional area of interest.

Bay Path University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.