The strength of U.S. communication programs is well known, and among the best is Columbia University, an Ivy League school. While the Journalism School is intensely competitive, the MS in Strategic Communication, housed under the School of Professional Studies (SPS), has rapidly gained traction and become a top choice for graduate students pursuing media-related studies.
So, is Columbia’s Strategic Communication program worth it? And what kind of applicants does it favor? Today, CheersYou（清柚教育） will break down the program’s strengths, application requirements, and admission preferences to give you an in-depth look at Columbia’s Strategic Communication program! If you’re interested, add CheersYou（清柚教育） advisor WeChat: qingyouge23 for more details!
University Overview
Columbia University
Ranked #2 in U.S. News National Universities 2023
Ranked #22 in QS World University Rankings 2023
Columbia University is located in New York City and is one of the oldest universities in the United States. Besides its stellar rankings, the university benefits from an unbeatable location: New York offers excellent transportation, convenient living, and abundant job opportunities.
Columbia’s School of Professional Studies (SPS), founded in 1995, is the university’s newest school. It brings together world-class educators and leading practitioners. Its mission is to develop professionals with cross-functional expertise to meet the rapidly evolving demands of cutting-edge global markets.
Official website: https://sps.columbia.edu/
Program Introduction
Master of Science in Strategic Communication
The MS in Strategic Communication is offered through Columbia’s SPS and is one of its long-standing programs, with a 20-year history. As an interdisciplinary communications program integrating coursework in both media and marketing, it covers a broad spectrum of communication fields. It is suitable for students aspiring to careers in public relations, advertising, branding, or marketing.
The standard duration of the Strategic Communication program is 16 months, but students can opt not to utilize CPT during the summer and complete the degree in 12 months.
Program Strengths:
The program features a diverse student body and an inclusive environment. Teaching assistants are industry professionals with extensive experience, enabling students to gain practical career knowledge and skills. As a media program in New York City, Columbia’s Strategic Communication is an excellent option for career-focused graduate students.
Curriculum:
· Communication skills, including strategic approaches, analytical frameworks, and organizational thinking;
· Understanding how to apply communication strategies to maximize support for or influence corporate decision-making;
· Developing effective communication strategies through advanced analytical skills, storytelling techniques, research design and evaluation, and digital strategy;
· Extensive learning opportunities outside the classroom, including supplementary workshops such as the Strategic Communication Speaker Series;
· In-depth capstone projects that involve working with a real organization, conducting actual research and making recommendations, and presenting to senior management.
Ideal Applicants & Admission Preferences:
· Interested in writing, public relations, marketing, and communication strategy, and aiming to work in these fields;
· High English proficiency, with idiomatic speaking skills; an interview is required;
· Strong writing ability, as the school places great emphasis on writing scores;
· Critical thinking and analytical skills;
· Preferred experience in communication-related work or internships;
· High GPA expectations; many admitted students have GPAs around 3.8.
Application Requirements
· Official transcripts with WES evaluation
· GRE scores required (GMAT also accepted, but GRE is preferred)
· Resume/CV
· Personal statement
· Supplemental essay
· Video essay
· Two letters of recommendation
· Admissions interview
· Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL minimum 100, IELTS minimum 7)
Tuition
$2428 per credit; 36 credits required for graduation
Total tuition: $87,408
Official website:
https://sps.columbia.edu/academics/masters/strategic-communication/full-...
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