strategic communications meeting

Master of Professional Studies in
Strategic Communications

Program summary

Leverage your professional experience with an online graduate degree program focused on advanced strategies and tactics in conveying information across digital media. No GRE/GMAT or communication undergraduate degree is required for entry into this management-geared master's program.

Application deadline

Apply by July 15 to start August 21

Credits and costs

30 Credits $1,007 per credit

Learn to Use Theory and Analytics to Create Effective Communications Campaigns

Penn State's online Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Strategic Communications explores the importance of messaging. In this 30-credit degree program, you will learn the methods and practices used to conduct effective research in examining practical and theoretical questions in strategic communications. Courses highlight the collection, analysis, and utilization of digital media audience data in this degree designed with the future of communications in mind. In addition, the MPS in Strategic Communications program allows customization through elective courses. Electives give you the opportunity to dive deep into leadership, digital analytics, social media, communications law, and more, so you can specialize your skill set for your career path.

Your Strategic Communications Course Work

The ability to research, develop, implement, and ultimately analyze your campaigns can impact strategic decisions and improve communication performance. This master's degree touches on subject matter important to 21st century communication leaders, such as:

  • research methods
  • campaign development
  • content implementation
  • media analytics
  • leadership and law

Why Study at Penn State?

In this program, you will study with highly regarded faculty from the largest accredited school in its field, the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications. Your diploma will look no different from those earned by students on our physical campus. As a graduate, you have access to the largest alumni association in the world to increase your networking potential. Your choice to trust Penn State can open doors to new opportunities now and into the future.

Who Should Apply for the Online Strategic Communications Degree?

This program, offered online, is ideal for those in the early and middle stages of their careers, who are currently in or aspiring to managerial positions. The content of the program is advantageous for individuals employed in a wide range of functional specialties and industry sectors, including marketing, web content production, public relations, and copywriting. A bachelor’s degree in communications is not required for entrance or success in this business-focused program.

Courses

The MPS in Strategic Communications is a 30-credit program of study designed for working professionals who are seeking advanced education in strategic communications to enhance their careers, support organizational goals and objectives, and aid in developing and implementing strategic communications plans and campaigns for organizations and clients.

Required Courses (18 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Provides students with an understanding of the methods and practices used to conduct effective research in examining practical and theoretical questions in strategic communications.

  • 3
    credits

    A comprehensive overview of professional strategic communications by examining key theoretical and conceptual fundamentals of persuasive communication, attitude formation and change, and mass communication, while examining applied implications that affect the strategic communications industry.

  • 3
    credits

    Provides students with an overview of the merging of the advertising, public relations, and corporate communications industries.

  • 3
    credits

    An overview of the methods for collecting, analyzing, and utilizing audience data for digital media.

    • Prerequisite

      COMM 530, COMM 830

  • 3
    credits

    Investigates transparency, digital ethics, diversity, and mass communication ethics as they apply to the development and application of communications strategy and content.

    • Prerequisite

      COMM 830

  • 3
    credits

    This capstone course requires students to apply the knowledge they have acquired in all the other foundation courses to develop a strategic communications campaign on behalf of a professional client.

    • Prerequisite

      COMM 530, COMM 531, COMM 830, COMM 831, COMM 833

Additional Courses (select 6 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Focuses on two areas: an in-depth understanding of the social media impact on strategic communications and how to make best use of social media tools.

    • Prerequisite

      COMM 830

  • 3
    credits

    Explore the economic, political, and social impact of culture and race in our society, socioeconomic differences, trends within various multicultural communities and groups, and how traditional and new media are reaching these communities.

    • Prerequisite

      COMM 830

  • 3
    credits

    This course examines how the First Amendment applies to strategic communications, the basic tenets of advertising regulation, privacy issues including the collection and use of personal and geolocation information, intellectual property issues including the use of trademarks and copyrights, and the role of self-regulation in a global communications environment.

    • Prerequisite

      COMM 830

  • 3
    credits

    Prepares students to demonstrate their competency and ability to navigate the digital media ecosystem and to develop, implement, administer, and evaluate digital marketing campaigns.

    • Prerequisite

      COMM 530, COMM 830, COMM 831

Electives (select 6 credits)

Students must take at least six additional elective credits from any Penn State World Campus course(s) — this includes 400-level courses and all elective courses listed above.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Costs and Financial Aid

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2022–23 Academic Year Rates

How many credits do you plan to take per semester? Cost
11 or fewer $1,007 per credit
12 or more $12,082 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

How to Apply

Deadlines and Important Dates

Your degree application, including receipt of all application materials, must be received by the following deadlines to be considered complete. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

  • Fall DeadlineApply by July 15 to start August 21
  • Spring DeadlineApply by November 15 to start January 8
  • Summer DeadlineApply by April 1, 2024, to start May 13, 2024

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact our admissions counselors.

Admission Requirements

For admission to the Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

What You Need

Applications are submitted electronically and include a nonrefundable application fee. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. — Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

Entrance Exams — Graduate school entrance exams (e.g., GRE, GMAT) are not required for entrance into the degree program and are not to be submitted as part of the application process.

English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

References (3) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering names, email addresses, and mailing addresses of three references. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to each reference requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform all recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.  

Program-Specific Materials 

Résumé — Upload your résumé to the online application.

Statement of Purpose — Two to three pages explaining your background in strategic communications, your goals related to the strategic communications industry, and how the MPS degree will help you to meet your goals.

Writing Sample — An academic or professional work demonstrating your analytical and writing abilities.

Start Your Application

You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

Begin the graduate school application

  • Choose Enrollment Type: "Degree Admission"
  • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

Checking Your Status

You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form.

Technical Requirements 

Review the general technical requirements for this program.

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

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Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State master's degree?

Apply by July 15 to start August 21. How to Apply

Start or Advance Your Career

A team of business professionals listening to a woman speak in a meeting

The skills you possess as a graduate of the online MPS in Strategic Communications program can make you a valuable asset to media outlets, businesses, government, education, and nonprofit organizations. You'll also have the support of Penn State career resources to pursue opportunities in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.


Job Titles Related to This Degree

The following roles are often held by people with this type of degree:

  • Communications Director
  • Content Manager
  • Promotions Director
  • Public Affairs Director
  • Public Relations Director (PR Director)

Employment Outlook for Occupational Fields Related to This Degree

Estimates of employment growth and total employment are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and are subject to change. While these occupations are often pursued by graduates with this degree, individual outcomes may vary depending on a variety of factors. Penn State World Campus cannot guarantee employment in a given occupation.

Public Relations Managers

7.6%
employment growth (10 years)
59,850
total employment

Advertising and Promotions Managers

7.1%
employment growth (10 years)
22,520
total employment

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Frequently Asked Questions

You can learn more about eligibility, the application process, and support offered by the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications.

What is an MPS degree?

The MPS degree is a professionally focused master’s degree. Many traditional master’s programs prepare students for careers in research or academia. Our MPS program is designed for communications professionals who want to remain in the industry but need more knowledge or technical expertise to advance in their careers. Our MPS program is as rigorous as a traditional master’s program, but the courses focus more deeply on the knowledge and skills a strategic communications professional needs to be successful in the workplace.

Is there a minimum GPA required for admission to the program?

Though our program does not require a minimum grade-point average for admission, a junior/senior GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) is recommended.

If I am completing my bachelor’s degree now, am I eligible to enroll in this program?

The MPS program is designed for students who have professional experience in the field of strategic communications and would like to expand their knowledge and expertise in theory-driven message design, digital analytics, client communication, leadership, and ethics. The concepts emphasized throughout the program necessitate a foundational knowledge of strategic communications and professional experience in the industry.

Are students only accepted into the program in the fall semester?

Students can apply to the program in both the fall and spring semesters. Classes in our core curriculum are offered during both semesters, so students will be able to register for the courses they need no matter which semester they begin the program.

The deadline for spring admission is November 15.

The deadline for fall admission is July 15.

What application materials must be submitted by the deadline?

All requested application materials, including letters of recommendation, need to be submitted by the deadline for full admissions consideration. Any applications that are incomplete after the deadline will not be considered for admission.

What kind of writing sample should I submit?

Applicants’ writing samples should exemplify their best academic and/or professional writing. Academic writing samples should include citations and references and demonstrate applicants’ analytical abilities. Professional writing samples should demonstrate applicants’ writing skills in areas such as public relations, advertising, social media, and strategic communications. While there is no length requirement, writing samples should be complete enough to fully demonstrate strong writing and analytical skills. Applicants can submit a combination of academic and professional writing samples in one PDF document. 

What kind of files should I use to submit my application materials?

The Penn State Graduate School's application system allows applicants to upload PDF and TXT files for their CVs/résumés, personal statements, and writing samples. We strongly encourage applicants to submit PDF files to preserve the formatting of their documents and any images included.

Once I submit my application, what are the next steps in the admissions process?

After students submit their applications, an internal admissions committee at the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications reviews all application materials. Admission decisions are sent to each student by the end of the semester in which the applications are being reviewed. Once students accept their offers of admission, they can then begin the process of registering for courses for the upcoming semester.

Am I required to take a minimum number of classes each semester?

Students can choose the number of classes they would like to take each semester. Most students take one or two classes each semester. In addition to taking classes during the fall and spring semesters, students can also take classes during the summer. This pace affords students flexibility and enables students to complete the program in approximately two to three years.

Is there a residency requirement for this program?

This is a fully online master’s degree, so students do not need to come to campus to complete the program.

What career support does Penn State offer to students and alumni of the program?

Penn State World Campus offers career counseling, events, and opportunities for students and alumni. The academic home of this program, the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, provides students with career and internship guidance through the College’s Office of Internships and Career Services, as well the opportunity to network with College alumni and view job postings. Alumni have the ability to join the Ad/PR Network through the Bellisario Office of Alumni Relations and have the opportunity to access resources within Penn State’s Alumni Association Career Services.

If I am currently enrolled in another Penn State graduate program, can I transfer into the MPS?

All prospective students must submit the required application materials to be considered for entrance into the program. Penn State students may not transfer into the MPS program without first going through the formal admissions process.

Does this program accept transfer credits from other colleges or other Penn State programs?

Transfer credits are accepted on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the program director for specific questions regarding transfer credits.

What if I earned my bachelor's degree outside the United States?

If your bachelor’s degree was earned at a university outside of the United States, Penn State’s Graduate School verifies that the university is accredited and determines if the degree program is equivalent to a four-year U.S. program. A four-year degree requires 240 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits. Applicants need to seek an academic equivalency evaluation and submit the documentation to the Graduate School before an admission decision can be made. In addition, the Graduate School requires that transcripts be submitted in English.

Contact Us

To learn more about the Master of Professional Studies in Strategic Communications, offered in partnership with the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, please contact:

World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
Email: [email protected]

Ann Major, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Lead Faculty
Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications
The Pennsylvania State University
105A Carnegie Building
University Park, PA 16802
Email: [email protected]

Faculty

  • Lee Ahern

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Mass Communications, Penn State
    • Degree
      M.A., Journalism, University of Wisconsin-Madison
    • Degree
      B.A., Journalism, University of Wisconsin-Madison
    • Degree
      B.S., Economics, University of Wisconsin-Madison

    Dr. Lee Ahern, associate professor of advertising and public relations, has nearly 20 years of experience as a marketing manager and a financial writer in New York and in various communications capacities on Wall Street. Ahern directs the science communication program; he also developed and coordinates the digital media trends and analytics minor. He serves as a senior research fellow at the Arthur W. Page Center for Integrity in Public Communication. Ahern co-edited the book Talking Green: Exploring Contemporary Issues in Environmental Communications. He teaches digital metrics, advertising, and research methods.

  • Michelle Baker

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Mass Communications, Penn State
    • Degree
      M.S., Communication Studies, Shippensburg University
    • Degree
      B.A., Communications/Journalism, Shippensburg University

    Dr. Michelle Baker, assistant teaching professor of advertising and public relations, worked as a journalist, freelance writer, and assistant editor of Bucknell University’s alumni magazine. She serves as the director of online programs in strategic communications. Her research focuses on vaccine hesitancy and refusal as well as the effect of inoculating messages on decision-making, specifically within health and religious contexts. Baker also explores the effects of communication messages designed to reduce stigma associated with health conditions and treatments. She teaches courses in strategic communications.

  • Denise Bortree

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Mass Communication, University of Florida
    • Degree
      M.Ed., Educational Psychology, University of Florida
    • Degree
      M.A., Mass Communication, University of Florida
    • Degree
      B.A., Writing, Geneva College

    Dr. Denise Bortree, associate dean for academic affairs and professor of advertising and public relations, worked for more than 10 years as a communications manager, public relations manager, and marketing manager. She directs the Arthur W. Page Center for Integrity in Public Communication and sits on the editorial board of the Journal of Public Relations Research and the Journal of Public Interest Communications. Bortree has co-edited two books: Talking Green: Exploring Contemporary Issues in Environmental Communications and Ethical Practice of Social Media in Public Relations. She teaches public relations, research methods, and ethics.

  • Colleen Connolly-Ahern

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Communications, University of Florida
    • Degree
      M.A., Mass Communications, University of Florida
    • Degree
      B.A., History, Georgetown University

    Dr. Colleen Connolly-Ahern, associate professor of advertising and public relations, worked as the promotion manager for USA Today and as the managing editor for the magazine Marine Log before starting her own marketing communications firm, Abbey Lane Marketing, which served clients in the banking, publishing, and education business areas. A scholar of international communications, Connolly-Ahern is an expert in the area of applied communications research, with a focus on refugees and communication. She served as the co-editor of American Behavioral Scientist Special Issue: Refugee Communications in the Digital Age. Connolly-Ahern also has expertise in science communication and conducts grant-funded research in the area of nutrition. She teaches undergraduate- and graduate-level research methods courses as well as international and intercultural strategic communications.

  • Frank Dardis

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Mass Communication, University of South Carolina
    • Degree
      M.A., Mass Communication, University of Florida
    • Degree
      B.S., Telecommunication, University of Florida

    Dr. Frank Dardis, associate professor of advertising and public relations, worked in advertising and marketing communications for several large corporations, including an Anheuser-Busch subsidiary, a golf course/community developer, and a professional baseball team. Dardis’ research explores the psychological and persuasive effects that informational messages have on individuals, primarily within the sociopolitical and marketing/consumer-related contexts. A faculty affiliate of Penn State’s Media Effects Research Laboratory, Dardis teaches courses in advertising, research methods, and strategic communications.

  • Ann Major

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Journalism, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale
    • Degree
      M.S., Advertising, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
    • Degree
      B.S., Journalism, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale

    Dr. Ann Major, associate professor of advertising and public relations, worked as a promotions coordinator and a vice president of public relations and corporate communication. She is an accredited member (APR) of the Public Relations Society of America and has served in national leadership positions. Her research focuses on the intersection of public opinion, news discourse, and emergency response. Major is co-author of the book Good-Bye Gweilo: Public Opinion and the 1997 Problem in Hong Kong. She teaches public relations, advertising, strategic communication, and risk communication.

  • Renea Nichols

    • Degree
      Ph.D. (ABD), Arizona State University
    • Degree
      M.S., Mass Communication, Arizona State University
    • Degree
      B.A., Journalism, Central Michigan University

    Renea Nichols, assistant teaching professor of advertising and public relations, has held public relations positions with the City of Phoenix, U-Haul International, Arizona Special Olympics, and the ASU Alumni Association. She has served as a public relations consultant to the National Kidney Foundation and the Maricopa Association of Governments. Nichols has also worked as a reporter for daily newspapers in Michigan, Maryland, and Ohio. She is the author of four books on interracial dating and multiracial populations and has appeared in national news media discussing the subjects. Nichols teaches courses in public relations, gender and diversity, and strategic communications.

  • Fuyuan Shen

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Mass Communication, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    • Degree
      M.A., Journalism, University of Montana
    • Degree
      B.A., English, East China Normal University

    Dr. Fuyuan Shen, professor of advertising and public relations, is head of the department of advertising and public relations in the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications. An affiliate faculty of Penn State’s Media Effects Research Lab, Shen explores the effects of messages on individuals’ information processing and attitudes related to health communication, political communication, and risk perceptions. Shen has taught as a visiting professor at Hong Kong Baptist University and the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He teaches courses in advertising and strategic communications.

  • Matthew Jackson

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Mass Communication, Indiana University
    • Degree
      M.A., Mass Communication, University of Florida
    • Degree
      B.S., Telecommunication, University of Florida

    Dr. Matthew Jackson, associate professor of telecommunications, has worked in both commercial and public radio, where he earned regional awards from the Associated Press for his radio features. His articles on internet copyright have been included as recommended reading at Harvard Law School and Catholic University, and his expert commentary has appeared in such media outlets as The Wall Street Journal, the Los Angeles Times, and The Guardian. He researches the impact of copyright on free speech and teaches courses in telecommunications policy, media programming, and strategic communications law.

  • Bu Zhong

    • Degree
      Ph.D., Journalism and Public Communication, University of Maryland
    • Degree
      M.A., Broadcast Journalism, University of Missouri
    • Degree
      B.J., English Reporting and Editing, China School of Journalism
    • Degree
      B.A., English Literature, Sichuan International Studies University

    Dr. Bu Zhong, associate professor of journalism, is a faculty affiliate at the Center for Advanced Data Assimilation and Predictability Techniques, Media Effects Research Lab, and the Information Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) Consortium. He is a senior research fellow of the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism. His research applies decision-making theories to how judgments and decisions may be altered by information processing and the use of media technology. His research projects have practical implications, such as how social media use may enhance health care quality and well-being. He teaches social media communications.

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Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State master's degree?

Apply by July 15 to start August 21. How to Apply