Contact
Carolyn Hedges, PhD
Associate Dean for Professional Graduate Programs
315-443-9255
cdhedges@syr.edu
Kelly Lux
Associate Director
kalux@syr.edu
Faculty
Nina Brown, Jay Clewis, Anthony D’Angelo, Beth Egan, Jon Glass, Carolyn Hedges, Soo Yeon Hong, Brad Horn, Hua Jiang, Joel Kaplan, Dennis Kinsey, J. Elliott Lewis, Paula Nelson, Dan Pacheco, Adam Peruta, Ed Russell, Olivia Stomski, Corey Takahashi, Jodi Upton
Program Description
The M.S. in Communications online offers an in-depth study and experience with digital systems, strategies, and emergent trends critical, along with foundational knowledge in media law, applied research, theory and practice essential for successful leadership in the changing media industry. The program is intended for students with bachelor’s degrees and/or backgrounds in media and communications, journalism, public relations, advertising, media business management, and related fields. Students may choose from three secondary focus tracks: Journalism Innovation, Media Management, and Strategic Communication.
Part-time study
This is an online program that may be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students in the Communications Master’s program are expected to achieve the following educational goals:
- Identify the principles and laws associated with free speech and press for the US, as well as compare the American system of freedom of expression with others around the world, including the right to dissent, to monitor and criticize power, and to assemble and petition for redress of grievances.
- Apply theories and concepts of design and visual communication to the use and presentation of images and information.
- Conduct research and/or evaluate information by methods appropriate to the communications professions.
- Write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences and purposes they serve.
- Apply tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work.
- Demonstrate proficiency in tactical application of insights driven by research.
Program Requirements
The online M.S. in Communications is a 33-credit hour program (ten 3-credit online courses and 3 credit hours of residency).
Course List | Code | Title | Credits |
| COM 602 | Introduction to Digital Communications | 3 |
| COM 617 | Multimedia Storytelling | 3 |
| COM 627 | Social Media for Communicators | 3 |
| COM 698 | Media Law | 3 |
| 3 |
| Advertising and Public Relations Research Design | |
| Strategic Content Management | |
| Advertising and Public Relations Research Design | |
| COM 643 | Leadership & Organizational Dynamics in Communications | 3 |
| MMI 622 | Digital Communications Strategy and Innovation | 3 |
| MMI 632 | Media Industry Leadership and Change (1.5 credit(s) Taken twice.) | 3 |
| 9 |
| Total Credits | 33 |
Variable topics: Topics can include (but are not limited to):
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business Analytics
- Crisis Communications
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Emotional Intelligence, Conflict Resolution and Negotiations
- Ethics
- Leading at the Next Level
- Reputation Management
- Storytelling
- Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality
Tracks
(Choose One, 9 credits)
Journalism Innovation
Course List | Code | Title | Credits |
| MND 611 | Web and Mobile Story Production | 3 |
| MND 612 | Data-Driven Journalism | 3 |
| MND 613 | Emerging Media Platforms | 3 |
Media Management
Course List | Code | Title | Credits |
| COM 629 | Advanced Social Media Strategy | 3 |
| MMI 612 | Digital Communications Systems | 3 |
| 3 |
| Foundations of Entrepreneurship | |
| Marketing Management | |
| Strategic Management | |
| Business Analytics | |
Strategic Communication
Course List | Code | Title | Credits |
| ADV 611 | Strategic Principles and Practices | 3 |
| or PRL 604 | Theory and Practice of Public Relations |
| 6 |
| Digital Branding and Strategy | |
| Topics in Specialized Practice | |
| Public Relations Campaign Planning & Execution | |
| Crisis Communications | |
