Academics

Strategic Communication and Media (Online)

MA • Master's

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Montclair’s online master’s in Strategic Communication and Media puts you in complete control of your journey – and will leave you prepared to take on any communications challenge.

Our innovative structure allows you to complete the 30-credit program in just 12 months and gives you the chance to choose any five of our highly focused six modules, in any order, to earn your degree.

You’ll sharpen your skills in social media strategy, consumer research and crisis communications, learn about brand strategy and harness the power of data and analytics.

But that’s not all. Our optional industry bootcamp module will put you in the center of it all in the biggest media market in the world, where you can network with top industry professionals and gain the signature hands-on learning experiences that set Montclair graduates up for even more success.

If you’re looking for an online program that will help you level up in any industry and do it your way, this one’s for you.

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Earn Your Degree Online

Montclair’s online master’s in Strategic Communication and Media provides the flexibility to balance life and your education. Our asynchronous, fully online format allows you to pursue this degree and progress at your pace, earning the credential you need to grow in the field.

Asynchronous Online

Earn micro-credentials through six focused learning modules and choose any five to earn your degree.

Modules include:

  • Stakeholders
  • Digital Leadership
  • Strategic Communication
  • Digital Content
  • Social Media
  • Industry Bootcamp

See the curriculum.



What You’ll Do with Your Degree

The communications industry is growing across all sectors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects 6% growth for public relations specialists through 2033 and 7% growth for communication managers through 2030.

When you get your Montclair degree, you’ll be ready for jobs including:

  • Director of Communications
  • Brand Strategy Manager
  • Strategic Communication Consultant
  • Social Media Strategist
  • Crisis Communication Manager
  • Digital Marketing Director
  • Brand Communication Specialist
  • PR Account Manager
  • Multimedia Content Strategist
  • Creative Communication Director
  • Strategic Communications Advisor
  • Audience Analytics Specialist

Want to dive deeper? Our Career Services Department can show you more.

Admission Requirements

  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the US degree equivalency information.
  • *F1/J1 visa seeking students are not eligible for this program.

Application Checklist

  • Application Deadline: Rolling Admission
  • Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  • Transcript: One from each college attended.
  • Essay/Personal Statement: Please share why you are interested in pursuing an MA in Strategic Communication and Media.
    • Considering your personal characteristics and life experiences, clarify what you are likely to contribute to this learning community at Montclair State University. Use this opportunity to address anything about yourself that the faculty should know – things that might not be included in your formal application materials, but which will help to familiarize yourself to us.
    • Specifically describe how you think this academic program can help you enhance your competencies in any three of the program’s modular topics:
      • Research-derived knowledge about stakeholders
      • Strategic communication
      • Digital content creation
      • Digital leadership
      • Social media
  • Letters of Recommendation: Two
  • Resume: Required.

The Montclair Difference

Chart Your Own Journey
Take the modules you want, when you want. We let you choose your path to a degree, supporting you every step of the way.

Be Where the Action Is
Our optional, in-person industry bootcamp module puts you in the center of the media capital of the world while leveraging Montclair’s extensive industry relationships.

Courses That Matter
Our online courses blend traditional and digital media to prepare you to thrive in complex communications environments.

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Montclair Online: Support to Help You Succeed

From day one to graduation, access tools, guidance and real-world advice to help you excel. Build confidence in online learning, balance school and life, and stay motivated with support designed to keep you prepared, inspired and on track.

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Related Programs

Interested in an undergraduate degree instead? Montclair offers a Communication and Media Studies program that can lay the foundation to pursue this graduate degree.

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Office of Graduate Admissions

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Online Enrollment Specialist

Learn what to expect from Montclair’s fully online programs, including course delivery, technology, and student support. An Online Enrollment Specialist can explain how online study fits with your personal and professional schedules.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Yi Luo

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

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Learn on Campus

Immersive classes, vibrant campus life and hands-on experiences that put you at the center of it all.

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Learn Online

Montclair Online offers the same nationally recognized faculty, engaging coursework and supportive community as our on-campus classes - designed to fit your life. With multiple start dates each year, you can begin when the time is right for you.

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