Wake Forest University offers a Master of Communications through its School of Professional Studies. This program can be completed entirely online, with no required campus visits, and is comprised of 10 courses totaling 30 credits. This Master of Communications has a strong emphasis on organizational and strategic communication, with the intent of preparing students to become leaders of internal and external-facing communication for a variety of organizations.
Students take nine courses with core courses that cover communications research, digital communications engagement, crisis communications, strategic communications, organizational leadership and culture development, leadership through intercultural communications, public relations, and contemporary issues and opportunities in communications. Students can take these courses as they are available, and do not have to follow a particular course sequence. Through these classes, students develop a strong understanding of communication concepts, issues, and priorities in today’s dynamic and evolving media landscape. They also gain skills in identifying insights from data to inform communication strategy, utilizing multiple media channels to engage stakeholders, and addressing and preventing corporate crises through communication. Finally, they learn about intercultural awareness, fostering organizational diversity, maintaining corporate ethics and reputation, and clarifying and communicating organizational values.
To supplement the core courses and tailor their program of study, students select one elective course, choosing from classes in negotiation and conflict management, leadership skills for business management, corporate branding, change management, and financial fundamentals for business leaders. Students’ final required course is a capstone in communications, through which they complete a consultative project that requires them to apply everything they have learned in the program to a deliverable that they can feature in their professional portfolio post-graduation.
To apply for this program, candidates must submit a resume and transcripts of all post-secondary work. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is required, and prospective students must also undergo a virtual interview.
Wake Forest University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Online Master of Communications
Overview
Department: School of Professional Studies
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 2 years
Start Dates: Fall, Spring and Summer admission
Curriculum and Graduation Requirements
Credits Required: 30 credits (10 courses)
Thesis Required: No
Capstone Options: Capstone project
Example Courses: Communication Research, Digital Communications Engagement, Crisis and Issues Communications, Strategic Communications, Public Relations, Leading through Intercultural Communications
Application Requirements
GPA Requirements: No minimum GPA to apply
Testing Requirements: GRE not required
Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree; resume
Tuition Costs
Estimated Tuition*: $35,000 + fees
Cost per Credit Hour: $1,167 per credit hour
State Authorizations: Program accepts students from all 50 states
