M.S. in Communications-Strategic Communication Specialization

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Manage complex communication issues with a master’s in strategic communications

Gain the applied skills and knowledge necessary to guide organizations through complex communication challenges with Franklin University’s 16-month, online M.S. in Communications with a Specialization in Strategic Communication. Hands-on coursework enables you to adapt to an evolving digital landscape, while also building the expertise to craft messages that align with organizational goals and resonate with diverse audiences.

Program Availability

Online

On Site

M.S. in Communications-Strategic Communication Program Overview

Craft comprehensive communication strategies that align with organizational goals

Learn how to combine communication tools and tactics to achieve PR and communication goals. By working on behalf of a client you select, you’ll create a communication plan that includes a brand map, personas and a SWOT analysis. You’ll use case studies to identify methods of integrating various tools into an organization’s public relations plans and processes. Franklin’s theory-to-practice approach provides the opportunity for you to learn-by-doing as you strengthen your understanding of communication principles and strategic planning.

Master effective crisis communication management

Communication at the touch of a button has its benefits - but it comes with a great deal of risk as well. Protecting your organization’s reputation and maintaining stakeholder trust is an essential skill in today’s fast-paced and unpredictable environment. As a student in the strategic communications master’s program, you’ll be prepared to make a significant impact within your organization by fostering a culture of transparency, responsiveness and strategic insight.

You’ll gain the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of crisis prevention, response and recovery. Course assignments include a “hot-seat” role play in which you’ll assume the role of a media spokesperson for an organization facing a crisis to take questions from the instructor and your classmates, who will act as reporters. You’ll also work with an organization to provide proactive reputation management.

Develop applied skills in social media tools, mobile apps, AI and analytics

Communication is an ever-evolving discipline. Remaining conversant with new tools and technology is key to staying at the top of your game and your assignments within the master’s in strategic communication will ensure you do. As part of Franklin’s contemporary strategic communication master’s program, you’ll examine the strengths and weaknesses of various social media tools and apps. You’ll interact with AI systems to design an AI use policy and best practices training for PR. You’ll also leverage and cite AI to create customer personas and create key messages.

Through courses in analytics, text mining and data analytics, you’ll acquire skills to use data to inform your communication strategies and tailor messages more effectively. Proficiency in statistical software will enable you to analyze campaign performance, measure impact and identify areas for improvement.

Excel in a variety of industries

Build a versatile skillset that makes you an asset in internal communications, community liaison and communication consulting roles in a number of sectors including corporate, nonprofit, healthcare, government and media. Foundational courses in communication theory and graduate-level writing help you to hone your ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and effectively. You’ll also learn to draw on research in order to craft well-structured, persuasive proposals.

Future Start Dates

Your Best Value M.S. in Communications-Strategic Communication

Affordable Tuition

$670

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Affordable tuition rates for the M.S. in Communications-Strategic Communication provide value and quality.

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Highly Recommended

98%

STUDENT SATISFACTION

98% of graduating students would recommend Franklin to their family, friends and/or colleagues.

Info Copy: Source: Franklin University, Office of Career Development Student Satisfaction Survey (Summer 2023).

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M.S. in Communications-Strategic Communication Courses & Curriculum

33 Semester Hours

Major Foundational

COMM 701 - Communication Theory and Practice (4)

This course covers major theories, frameworks, and approaches to the study of communication, emphasizing current trends and professional skills. Students examine one theory in-depth, teaching that theory to fellow students, and critiquing potential applications of frameworks and theory.

ENG 700 - Graduate Research Writing (4)

This course prepares students for graduate-level writing genres including research reports, research articles, and thesis papers. Students will review the conventions and rhetoric of writing in their profession and compare these with the norms of scholarly writing. Students will examine how writing supports the development of new ideas that allow researchers to make a meaningful contribution to their discipline.

Specialization

Strategic Communication:

COMM 702 - Public Relations Tools & Strategy (4)

In the fast-changing field of communication, practitioners need to be aware of new channels of communication and understand the culture and etiquette of emerging communication contexts. In this course, students apply current tools, such as social media and mobile applications, to address a public relations challenge for an organization. The strengths and weaknesses of current tools will be discussed, using case studies to identify methods of integrating current tools in an organization's public relations plans and processes. The organization's overall communication strategy for achieving communication-related goals is addressed in this course with an emphasis on tools and tactics that align with the identified goals.

COMM 703 - Public Relations and Crisis Communication Management (4)

In today's hyperconnected world, organizations face an ever-increasing risk of reputational damage due to the rapid spread of information and heightened public scrutiny. Effective issue management and crisis communication are crucial for organizations to protect their reputations and maintain stakeholder trust. This course equips you with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of crisis prevention, response, and recovery.

AND

MGMT 707 - MBA Foundations (4)

More than ever before, the ability to understand and be understood is critical for success in the corporate world. Communication is no longer limited by the narrow definitions of the past. Achieving a business leadership position today means not only being adept at both oral and written communication, but also understanding communication from a strategic point-of-view and knowing how to effectively organize and present information to audiences of all sizes. In this course, you will develop and refine these capabilities. What you gain from this course will be of value throughout your MBA program, as well as in the workplace.

OR PSYC 601 - Introduction to Business Psychology (4)

A brief history and overview of the fields of business and psychology as well as a discussion of the issues and opportunities related to their integration. Topics include brain organization and dominance, neuroethics, neurolinguistic programming, multiminds, mindmapping and the application of positive psychology to work settings. Includes the application of recent discoveries in cognitive psychology and neuroscience to resolve contemporary issues in the workplace.

AND

At least 1 credits from the following courses:

GRAD 610 - Experiential Learning for Graduate Studies (1-4)

Learning through doing has been widely recognized as a best practice to accompany formal classroom education. Internships, field experiences, and practicums are frequently used to fulfill experiential learning goals. This course provides a structured, repeatable, accountable, and reflective way to incorporate academically relevant experiential learning into a graduate-level program of study. Students must have a confirmed experience (job offer, internship, volunteer position, etc.) with an organization registered with the university in a role that is aligned with the outcomes of their degree program. The duration of the experience must fully overlap with the entire length of the course. Admission to the course requires an application process and Program Chair approval.

COMM 705 - Professional Portfolio (1)

Launch your career with a professional portfolio that showcases your skills, experience, and accomplishments. This graduate-level course will teach you how to leverage current technologies (e.g., AI and social media) as you curate a portfolio that demonstrates program outcomes and supports achieving your personal and professional goals.

Health Communication:

COMM 702 - Public Relations Tools & Strategy (4)

HCM 735 - Healthcare Delivery Systems (4)

The course provides an extensive overview of leadership in the U.S. health services system. The focus of the course will be on the role health services leadership plays in the delivery of healthcare services, to include managing with professionals, financial management, services utilization, and other aspects of the U.S. healthcare system. The student will explore the key theoretical and practical elements of leadership as well as current issues clarifying how the U.S. health services system is organized, managed, and financed.

HCM 752 - Health Policy (4)

This course will explore the essential conceptual and analytical understanding of health policymaking and politics, including their impact on health administration and leadership. Selected policy issues will be explored through the application of political concepts and behavioral models, including a system model of policymaking. The emphasis will be on understanding the health leader?s approach to the policymaking system, become involved in it, and work through it to attain their objectives and those of their organization.

AND

At least 1 credits from the following courses:

GRAD 610 - Experiential Learning for Graduate Studies (1-4)

COMM 705 - Professional Portfolio (1)

Research Core

MATH 601 - Introduction to Analytics (4)

This course provides an introductory overview of methods, concepts, and current practices in the growing field of statistics and data analytics. Topics to be covered include data collection, data analysis and visualization as well as probability, statistical inference and regression methods for informed decision-making. Students will explore these topics with current statistical software. Some emphasis will also be given to ethical principles of data analytics.

MTHD 705 - Text Mining and Text Analysis (4)

Text mining is used to discover interesting patterns, extract useful knowledge, and support decision making. This course introduces learners to text mining research methods and software tools that are used across academia as well as by companies and government agencies. Text mining is commonly used in marketing research and Communication scholarship. Students will learn how to use social media postings, interview-based data, and open-ended survey responses to answer specific research questions. The course is interdisciplinary as many types of research questions may be addressed using text mining and text analysis. Students will learn how to construct a viable research project based on online sources.

COMM 708 - Capstone Experience (4)

In this integrative capstone course, students will complete a thesis or project on a communication topic. Under the guidance of an advising professor, students will design and conduct an original research study or applied project, analyze the findings, and write a thesis that contributes to the field of communication.

M.S. in Communications-Strategic Communication Program Details

Tuition Costs

2024 - 2025 Tuition	Cost Per Credit
Standard tuition per credit hour	$670
Nursing programs MSN-FNP, MSN-PMHNP, MSN-AGPCNP, Post-Graduate FNP Certificate, Post-Graduate AGPCNP Certificate and Post-Graduate PMHNP Certificate	$670
MSN-Generalist, MSN-Nurse Administrator and MSN-Nurse Educator	$598
RN-MSN Pathway (NURS 500)	$298
Current service members	$536
Graduate Prerequisite Courses (500 level)	$398
Graduate Prerequisite Courses (500 level) - International Students	$526

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Degree Requirements

To be awarded a graduate degree, students must:

Successfully complete all required curriculum courses.
Maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00.
Complete the residency requirement:
1. M.S. in Communications students must earn at least 22 of the 33 required credits at Franklin University.
Complete the payment of all requisite tuition and fees;
Not to be under disciplinary dismissal due to academic dishonesty or violation of Student Code of Conduct.

Transfer credit awarded based on experiential learning shall not count toward the residence requirement at Franklin University.

Admission Requirements

The admission process reflects Franklin University’s efforts to clearly identify the performance standards that can help predict student success in graduate level study. The selection criterion for Franklin’s graduate programs, as determined by faculty, emphasizes academic ability, contributory work experience, and personal qualities and characteristics.

Requirements for admission include having earned a bachelor's degree from an institution accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC), Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE), Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), Southern Association of Colleges and School Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), or a Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)-recognized accrediting organization with a GPA of at least a 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.

Applicants who earned at least a 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale in their earned bachelor’s degree will automatically be granted conditional enrollment status. Applicants who earned lower than a 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale in their earned bachelor’s degree can petition for conditional enrollment status to the program chair by submitting an essay detailing other criteria that the applicant believes should be considered to demonstrate their ability to be successful in a graduate program. This petition could include details on the applicant’s work experience, work ethic, level of professionalism, personality characteristics, level of difficulty of program of study previously completed, etc.

Conditional enrollment requires students to achieve a final grade of “B” (3.0 GPA) or better in the first graduate-level course of their program. If the terms of the conditional enrollment are not met, the student will not be allowed to advance in their program and will be unable to earn this graduate degree from Franklin University.

English Language Testing & TOEFL IELTS

Prospective students must demonstrate English Language Proficiency. The requirement is met through any of the following:

The applicant is a citizen of a country where English is the official language.*
The applicant has received a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an institution located in an English-speaking country in which the courses were taught in English.*
The applicant has earned appropriate scores on language proficiency exams taken within the last two years, as listed in the Academic Catalog.

*For more information about English proficiency, including a list of English-speaking nations, please visit our International Students section.

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Employment Outlook

10%

From 2023-2033, jobs in Marketing & Communications are expected to increase by 10%

Occupation

Median Salary (2023)

Job Postings (2023)

Projected Growth (2023-2033)

Occupation

Public Relations Managers

$134,763

65,114

10%

Public Relations Managers

Median Salary: $134,763
Job Postings: 65,114
Projected Growth: 10%

Occupation

Job Titles

Skills

Industry

Description

Public Relations Managers plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client.

Projected Growth

Job Title	Job Postings	% of Job Postings
Communications Managers	9,658	15%
Social Media Managers	9,079	14%
Directors of Communications	3,990	6%
Marketing and Communications Managers	3,587	6%
Community Engagement Specialists	3,210	5%
Community Engagement Managers	2,857	4%
Community Directors	3,546	5%
Communications Directors	2,778	4%
Public Relations Managers	2,715	4%
Directors of Marketing and Communications	3,029	5%
Marketing Communications Managers	3,090	5%
Internal Communications Managers	2,217	3%
Assistant Community Directors	4,771	7%
Campaign Managers	1,825	3%
Corporate Communications Managers	1,637	3%
Communications Officers	1,571	2%
Directors of Community Engagement	1,491	2%
Community Relations Managers	1,334	2%
Lifestyle Directors	1,522	2%
Executive Directors	1,207	2%

Skill	Job Postings	% of Total Postings
Marketing	46,183	44%
Public Relations	25,556	25%
Project Management	24,314	23%
Social Media	20,080	19%
Journalism	14,044	14%
Media Relations	12,425	12%
Press Releases	12,386	12%
Newsletters	12,172	12%
Internal Communications	10,837	10%
Fundraising	10,487	10%
Strategic Communication	10,099	10%
Marketing Communications	9,792	9%
Content Creation	9,357	9%
Customer Relationship Management	8,667	8%
Corporate Communications	7,981	8%
Communication Strategies	7,256	7%
Branding	6,773	7%
Sales Prospecting	6,710	6%
Thought Leadership	6,432	6%
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)	6,426	6%

	Industry	% of Occupation in Industry
	Advertising, Public Relations, and Related Services		12%
	Management of Companies and Enterprises		9%
	Business, Professional, Labor, Political, and Similar Organizations		8%
	Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools		5%
	Education and Hospitals (State Government)		5%
	Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals		4%
	Other		57%

Technical Writers

$80,059

47,759

13%

Technical Writers

Median Salary: $80,059
Job Postings: 47,759
Projected Growth: 13%

Occupation

Job Titles

Skills

Industry

Description

Technical Writers write technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions. May assist in layout work.

Projected Growth

Job Title	Job Postings	% of Job Postings
Technical Writers	28,094	59%
Proposal Writers	6,239	13%
Medical Writers	2,549	5%
Technical Writers/Editors	2,242	5%
Technical Proposal Writers	868	2%
UX Writers	805	2%
Report Writers	1,006	2%
IT Technical Writers	823	2%
Medical Writing Managers	532	1%
Technical Publications Specialists	449	1%
Principals	557	1%
Technical Writer Interns	454	1%
Scientific Writers	557	1%
Technical Documentation Writers	503	1%
Contract Technical Writers	380	1%
Data Analysts/Report Writers	412	1%
Business Analysts/Technical Writers	407	1%
Writers/Editors	283	1%
Consultants	196	0%
Scientific Technical Writers	403	1%

Skill	Job Postings	% of Total Postings
Technical Writing	12,690	39%
Project Management	7,652	24%
Technical Documentation	6,380	20%
Templates	4,893	15%
Proofreading	4,282	13%
Marketing	4,036	12%
Journalism	3,687	11%
Microsoft SharePoint	3,620	11%
Request For Proposal	3,530	11%
Style Guides	3,178	10%
Technical Communication	3,014	9%
Workflow Management	2,888	9%
Medical Writing	2,828	9%
Software Documentation	2,710	8%
Microsoft Visio	2,605	8%
Standard Operating Procedure	2,506	8%
Computer Science	2,406	7%
Proposal Writing	2,319	7%
Content Creation	2,259	7%
Agile Methodology	2,119	7%

	Industry	% of Occupation in Industry
	Computer Systems Design and Related Services		20%
	Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services		9%
	Employment Services		7%
	Scientific Research and Development Services		6%
	Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services		6%
	Software Publishers		5%
	Other		48%

Editors

$75,026

19,321

Editors

Median Salary: $75,026
Job Postings: 19,321
Projected Growth: 4%

Occupation

Job Titles

Skills

Industry

Description

Editors plan, coordinate, revise, or edit written material. May review proposals and drafts for possible publication.

Projected Growth

Job Title	Job Postings	% of Job Postings
Editors	3,048	16%
Technical Editors	2,038	11%
Copy Editors	1,739	9%
Content Editors	1,529	8%
Managing Editors	2,057	11%
Editorial Assistants	1,463	8%
News Editors	1,159	6%
Assignment Editors	822	4%
Writers/Editors	746	4%
Photo Editors	560	3%
Associate Editorial Directors	558	3%
Lead Assistant Editors	614	3%
Production Editors	518	3%
Digital Editors	412	2%
Executive Editors	480	3%
Copywriters/Editors	373	2%
Engagement Editors	279	1%
Magazine Editors	338	2%
Medical Editors	299	2%
Sports Editors	289	2%

Skill	Job Postings	% of Total Postings
Journalism	7,912	31%
Proofreading	4,737	19%
Marketing	4,322	17%
Copy Editing	3,647	14%
Social Media	3,475	14%
Project Management	3,405	13%
Content Creation	3,196	13%
Content Editing	2,949	12%
Search Engine Optimization	2,943	12%
Workflow Management	2,873	11%
Style Guides	2,582	10%
Newsletters	2,473	10%
Punctuation and Capitalization	2,111	8%
Adobe Photoshop	2,037	8%
AP Stylebook	1,777	7%
Analytics	1,540	6%
Storytelling	1,517	6%
Fact Checking	1,436	6%
HyperText Markup Language (HTML)	1,415	6%
Technical Writing	1,326	5%

	Industry	% of Occupation in Industry
	Newspaper, Periodical, Book, and Directory Publishers		40%
	Media Streaming Distribution Services, Social Networks, and Other Media Networks and Content Providers		8%
	Motion Picture and Video Industries		7%
	Advertising, Public Relations, and Related Services		6%
	Business, Professional, Labor, Political, and Similar Organizations		3%
	Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services		3%
	Other		32%

Writers and Authors

$73,694

48,293

10%

Writers and Authors

Median Salary: $73,694
Job Postings: 48,293
Projected Growth: 10%

Occupation

Job Titles

Skills

Industry

Description

Writers and Authors originate and prepare written material, such as scripts, stories, advertisements, and other material.

Projected Growth

Job Title	Job Postings	% of Job Postings
Copywriters	10,396	22%
Content Writers	6,408	13%
Article Writers	5,746	12%
Social Media Content Creators	3,591	7%
Content Creators	3,227	7%
Service Writers	2,695	6%
Specification Writers	1,174	2%
Digital Content Producers	1,782	4%
Writers	1,220	3%
Marketing Copywriters	1,192	3%
Curriculum Writers	910	2%
Content Developers	1,051	2%
Content Specialists	726	2%
Ticket Writers	941	2%
Digital Content Creators	867	2%
Digital Producers	824	2%
Customs Entry Writers	2,742	6%
Social Media Managers/Content Creators	983	2%
Entry Writers	1,287	3%
Breaking News Editors	531	1%

Skill	Job Postings	% of Total Postings
Marketing	13,019	31%
Copywriting	10,199	24%
Social Media	9,013	22%
Content Creation	8,216	20%
Journalism	8,171	20%
Search Engine Optimization	6,174	15%
Project Management	5,981	14%
Proofreading	5,422	13%
Artificial Intelligence	3,221	8%
Content Strategy	3,177	8%
Target Audience	3,090	7%
Digital Content	3,048	7%
TikTok	2,883	7%
Fact Checking	2,877	7%
Social Media Content	2,718	7%
Blogs	2,397	6%
Content Development	2,338	6%
Digital Marketing	2,244	5%
Adobe Photoshop	2,227	5%
Newsletters	2,171	5%

	Industry	% of Occupation in Industry
	Advertising, Public Relations, and Related Services		14%
	Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers		10%
	Newspaper, Periodical, Book, and Directory Publishers		10%
	Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services		8%
	Media Streaming Distribution Services, Social Networks, and Other Media Networks and Content Providers		5%
	Motion Picture and Video Industries		5%
	Other		48%

Public Relations Specialists

$66,747

51,971

11%

Public Relations Specialists

Median Salary: $66,747
Job Postings: 51,971
Projected Growth: 11%

Occupation

Job Titles

Skills

Industry

Description

Public Relations Specialists promote or create an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media. May specialize in using social media.

Projected Growth

Job Title	Job Postings	% of Job Postings
Communications Specialists	18,751	36%
Marketing Communications Specialists	4,265	8%
Communications Coordinators	3,302	6%
Communications Associates	2,899	6%
Public Relations Specialists	2,371	5%
Telecommunications Specialists	1,775	3%
Marketing and Communications Specialists	1,980	4%
Media Planners	1,383	3%
Media Buyers	1,945	4%
Internal Communications Specialists	1,588	3%
Move-in Coordinators	1,239	2%
Campus Ambassadors	1,026	2%
Student Ambassadors	859	2%
Branch Ambassadors	2,300	4%
Security Ambassadors	1,533	3%
Digital Communications Specialists	1,338	3%
Corporate Communications Specialists	1,054	2%
Community Relations Coordinators	848	2%
Community Ambassadors	836	2%
Media Specialists	679	1%

Skill	Job Postings	% of Total Postings
Marketing	26,817	41%
Public Relations	13,919	21%
Social Media	11,983	18%
Project Management	11,926	18%
Newsletters	10,164	16%
Journalism	9,753	15%
Press Releases	7,621	12%
Content Creation	6,310	10%
Graphic Design	6,040	9%
Marketing Communications	6,024	9%
Internal Communications	5,703	9%
Proofreading	4,958	8%
Strategic Communication	4,620	7%
Media Relations	4,588	7%
Adobe Photoshop	3,924	6%
Corporate Communications	3,486	5%
Adobe Creative Suite	3,419	5%
Branding	3,388	5%
Photography	3,352	5%
Communication Strategies	3,287	5%

	Industry	% of Occupation in Industry
	Advertising, Public Relations, and Related Services		13%
	Religious Organizations		6%
	Business, Professional, Labor, Political, and Similar Organizations		5%
	Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals		5%
	Management of Companies and Enterprises		5%
	Education and Hospitals (State Government)		5%
	Other		62%

Source: Employment Outlook data is provided by Lightcast. Franklin University cannot guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.

M.S. in Communications-Strategic Communication Knowledge & Skillsets

Gain in-demand skills sought by employers with curriculum that teaches you:

Strategic Communication & Public Relations Management

Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies aligned with organizational goals
Utilize current digital tools and technologies, including social media and AI, to address public relations challenges effectively
Audit and analyze organizational communication profiles to identify strengths and areas for improvement
Navigate legal and ethical considerations in communication practices, including AI use policies and best practices
Create and execute data-informed internal and external communication campaigns at local, national and global levels
Apply critical thinking and analysis to interpret complex data and make informed decisions

Crisis Management & Media Relations

Develop and implement crisis communication and reputation management plans
Demonstrate proficiency in handling complex challenges and communicating effectively during high-stakes situations
Act as a credible spokesperson, interacting effectively with various stakeholders, including media
Utilize data analytics and visualization tools to support communication strategies and crisis response
Demonstrate graduate-level research, writing and presentation skills for various audiences and contexts
Adapt communication strategies to emerging channels and diverse stakeholder needs

Advanced Research & Business Communication

Apply communication theories and frameworks to analyze complex organizational challenges
Conduct and interpret communication assessments to inform strategic decision-making
Demonstrate proficiency in graduate-level research methods and academic writing
Utilize business databases and analytics tools to support communication strategies
Develop and present professional portfolios showcasing communication skills and accomplishments
Apply principles of business psychology to enhance workplace communication and performance

Ethics & Professional Standards in Communication

Understand and apply ethical standards for conducting communication research and practice
Analyze the implications of AI and emerging technologies on communication ethics
Develop policies and best practices that promote ethical communication within organizations
Evaluate case studies highlighting ethical dilemmas in public relations and strategic communication
Foster a culture of integrity and accountability in communication practices across various platforms.

M.S. in Communications-Strategic Communication Frequently Asked Questions

What is a master’s in strategic communications?

A master’s in strategic communication is a theory-to-practice master’s-level program with a focus on strategy, storytelling and tech-savvy communications.

What can you do with a master’s degree in strategic communications?

With a master’s degree in strategic communications, you’ll build an advanced skillset that prepares you for managing complex communication efforts that align with strategic objectives. You’ll be well-equipped for management-level positions that include strategic communications manager, PR specialist and crisis communication consultant.

Why get master’s in strategic communications?

With a master’s in strategic communications, you’ll gain a deep understanding of communication principles that enables you to take a strategic approach to managing internal communications, as well as crisis communication. A theory-to-practice program, like Franklin's, that emphasizes applied skills and knowledge ensures you are well-equipped to meet the demands of an ever-changing communication landscape.

What makes Franklin’s M.S. in Communications with a Specialization in Strategic Communication unique?

Franklin’s M.S. in Communications with a Specialization in Strategic Communication is a 16-month, 100% online program created with input from industry experts. In Franklin’s theory-to-practice program, you’ll learn through a combination of real-world simulations and case studies and be taught by in-field practitioners. You’ll also have the option to complete a work-based learning experience that provides an opportunity to translate the knowledge and skills you have learned throughout the program to a professional environment.

When can I start Franklin’s online master’s in strategic communications?

Choose from six start dates each year – fall (August, September and November) or spring (January, February and March). Additional summer start dates (May and June) may be available based on demand.

How much will my strategic communication master’s program cost?

Franklin University offers a quality education at a competitive cost so you can afford to invest in your future. Our per credit hour tuition rates (vs. per year or per term rates) enable you to get a realistic estimate of exactly how much your degree will cost. Our 2024-2025 tuition rate is $670 per credit hour. Use Franklin’s free MyCost Estimator to get a personalized estimate of your total degree cost. If you have any questions, ask our helpful staff about available financing options and financial aid programs.

How long does it take to get a master’s in strategic communications?

Franklin's master's degree programs are specifically designed for busy, working adults -- that means you could finish your master’s degree in strategic communications in as few as 16 months.

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Franklin University Founded in 1902, Franklin is an accredited nonprofit university offering flexible college degrees online and at locations in Ohio and the Midwest.

Franklin University
201 S Grant Ave.
Columbus, OH 43215

Local: (614) 797-4700
Toll Free: (877) 341-6300
admissions@franklin.edu

Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org/800.621.7440) and authorized by the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

Franklin University is committed to being an inclusive community free from all forms of discrimination and harassment.

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Manage complex communication issues with a master’s in strategic communications

In-Demand Skills

Contemporary Curriculum

Finish Faster

100% Online Classes

Real-World Practitioners

Craft comprehensive communication strategies that align with organizational goals

Master effective crisis communication management

Develop applied skills in social media tools, mobile apps, AI and analytics

Excel in a variety of industries

Affordable Tuition

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Highly Recommended

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Know the Total Cost of Your Master’s from Day One

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