The LSE & USC joint Global Media and Communication master's program is a hot favorite every year, as earning degrees from two top universities in just two years is incredibly appealing! CheersYou（清柚教育） has provided an in-depth analysis—students interested in this program can reach out to CheersYou（清柚教育） advisors.
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Institution Profiles
The London School of Economics and Political Science
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is a member of the prestigious "G5 super-elite" group alongside Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and University College London. It is also part of the Golden Triangle and Russell Group universities. LSE is one of the most selective UK universities, ranked 8th in the QS UK University Rankings 2023.
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University of Southern California
USC is a private research university on the West Coast of the United States, located in Los Angeles. It is a member of the Association of American Universities and the Association of Pacific Rim Universities. Alumni and faculty include 10 Nobel laureates and 6 MacArthur Fellows. USC alumni have won more Academy Awards than any other U.S. university. Ranked 25th in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report National Universities.
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Program Overview
Background
The Global Media and Communication (GMC) program is a joint master's between LSE and USC, taught by LSE's Department of Media and Communications and USC's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Students study for one year in London—a global media hub—then spend a second year at USC Annenberg, a top U.S. communication school with deep ties to Los Angeles media industries.
Program Strengths
This dual master's degree collaboration between USC and LSE allows students to earn diplomas from two top institutions in two years. According to the 2023 QS World University Rankings, USC and LSE's Communication & Media subjects rank 2nd and 3rd globally respectively, while LSE's Department of Media and Communications is ranked 1st in the UK.
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Curriculum
During the first year at LSE, students build theoretical and methodological foundations in media and communication studies within political, social, and cultural contexts.
Key topics include:
Global and Transnational Media
Media, Culture, and Community
Politics and the Public
Health Communication and Social Dynamics
Groups, Organizations, and Social Networks
Information, Political Economy, and Entertainment
New Media and Technology
In the second year at USC Annenberg, students complete their research internship and take applied courses such as Public Relations and Public Diplomacy.
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Program website:
https://annenberg.usc.edu/communication/global-communication-ma
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Ideal Applicants and Career Paths
This program is suited for students with a background in social sciences or other fields who also have relevant professional experience in media and communications. Graduates go on to careers in broadcasting, journalism, advertising, new media, market research, media management, and more.
Application Requirements:
Background in social sciences or other fields with professional experience in media and communications
Undergraduate transcripts—minimum 2:1 bachelor's degree
GPA: 3.0+
CV/Resume
Personal statement (500–1000 words)
Two letters of recommendation
TOEFL or IELTS scores
GRE/GMAT not required
Application Timelines:
No fixed deadline; rolling admissions until capacity is reached
Note that applicants must apply to both LSE and USC simultaneously; the USC application generally only requires transcripts.
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For more details on specific majors, GPAs, GRE scores, etc., feel free to consult CheersYou（清柚教育） advisors.
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