From Communicator to Strategic Leader: What This Degree Unlocks
You already know how to write, present and get things done. But if you’re aiming to lead communication strategy, shape organizational decisions and earn the credibility that opens doors, you need more than instincts. You need insight, structure, tools and a professional network that gets you there faster. The Master’s in Strategic Communication from the Hubbard School at the University of Minnesota is designed to help you.
About the Program
Learn Together. Lead Tomorrow: The Power of the Cohort Model.
In most graduate programs, you’re just one of many—logging in, turning in assignments and moving through content alone. In ours, you’re part of a professional circle that learns together, solves problems together and builds bonds that often outlast the degree.
This cohort model is more than a format. It’s one of our greatest strengths. You’ll be surrounded by a tight-knit group of peers who challenge your thinking, expand your perspective and hold you to your potential.
The result? A deeper level of connection, accountability and professional growth that’s rare in online education. It’s one of the reasons our alumni stay in touch, hire each other, launch initiatives together and continue to grow long after graduation.
In short: the cohort model isn’t just how you learn here. It’s how you lead after.
Tuition Reduction
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35% Tuition Reduction — Up to 55% for Non-Residents
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Earn your online Master's in Strategic Communication for significantly less.
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Eligible students must live in Minnesota, Wisconsin or North Dakota. Regents Scholarship recipients do not qualify.
Program Format
2 years; 30 credits; 2.5 hours per class (5:30 to 8:00 PM) Tue/Thur; 2 classes per semester + 1 summer class; Cohorts limited to 25 students; Fully online; Taught by full-time academics and industry professionals; Program entry in either September or January.
Join us for an online info session:
Sign Up for a Virtual Visit
Transform your communication career with a master's degree designed for working professionals. Our hybrid program combines academic excellence with real-world application in small, collaborative cohorts. Sign up for a 20-minute virtual conversation with a faculty member to learn more.
Hear from Program Alums
"If your number one goal in your career is to improve your marketability so YOU are the one driving decisions on your career path, the Master’s in Strategic Communication Program is an excellent choice. You will learn from other professionals and have the mental space to step away from day-to-day tasks to really focus on strategy."
– Jennifer Stoltenow, MA Cohort 3, Sr. Director of Global Brand Strategy & Integrated Marketing, Solventum
Where our Graduates Land
The Core Competencies You’ll Build
Everything we teach ties directly to the strategic skills you need to lead in any organization, corporate, nonprofit, agency or higher ed. You’ll graduate with deep fluency in:
Strategic Thinking and Planning - Developing effective communication strategies to achieve organizational goals
Business and Brand Acumen - Building trusted brands while mastering business processes and financial strategies for success
Leadership and Collaboration - Leading diverse teams, managing projects and working with C level leaders to achieve a shared purpose
Research and Theory Application - Equipping students to analyze theory and research to make informed decisions and adapt to global trends
Purposeful and Ethical Communication - Creating meaningful messages across multiple media for diverse stakeholders
Technology-Driven Fluency - Navigating AI, social media, digital analytics and content platforms to engage with stakeholders more effectively
Program Details
- No Commute, No Compromise: Live Online Learning That Works
- Degree Requirements
- Graduate Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships
- Contact Us
Join live classes twice a week. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30–8 p.m. Central. This schedule works around your life.
Fully online.
No travel required
Small cohort size (max 25 students)
Start in January or September
Full support from faculty, advisors and career mentors
Optional in-person events for networking and reflection
Optional in-person events for networking and reflection
The Master’s in Strategic Communication degree requires 30 graduate credits to be completed within 24 calendar months. All students take the same 27 course credits in communication and complete a three-credit individual capstone project.
Strategic communication students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 and achieve a grade of B or higher on their capstone project. Student progress is evaluated by the academic program director and program faculty. Students must progress each semester to continue in the program. There is no final oral examination required.
Pursuing a graduate degree is a significant investment in your future, and we are committed to helping you navigate the financial aspects of your education. In addition to understanding tuition and fees for the master’s in strategic communications, we encourage you to explore scholarship opportunities that can help offset the cost of your studies.
Graduate Tuition, Fees and Scholarship Info
Schedule an appointment with University of Minnesota Financial Aid
Schedule an online appointment to discuss the program in more detail.
Schedule an appointment with University of Minnesota Financial Aid.
Are You Ready To Lead?
Application Requirements:
Graduate School Online Application
Unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended, uploaded to the online application.
A Statement of Objectives: Personal Statement Instructions (Google Doc)
Three letters of recommendation, one of which must come from a current or previous employer who can verify your professional experience. Recommendations are also submitted online through the Graduate School Online Application.
Up to three Professional Writing Samples (writing clips, multimedia design, etc.) written in English.
A Professional Resume/CV
FAQ
What can you do with a Master’s in Strategic Communication?
Strategic Communication graduates can pursue many roles in many fields. Potential jobs include communication directors, PR strategists, corporate communication managers, content strategists, and consultants in a variety of industries. The UMN Master's in Strategic Communication helps teach leadership and the importance of strategy as the foundation for effective organizational communication.
How do students balance work, life, and the Master's in Strategic Communication?
The Master's in Strategic Communication is built for working professionals. Classes meet Tuesday and Thursday evenings and are fully online. Students can determine a schedule to complete their work that works best for them. Whether that be working on assignments on the weekends or finishing them during the week. The program's cohort model and flexible instructors help students maintain a balance between school and their personal life.
Do I need a communication degree to apply?
No. Applicants from all academic backgrounds are welcome. Admissions decisions consider professional experience, writing ability, and academic readiness—not just undergraduate major.
When should I apply to the Strategic Communication master’s program?
With our rolling admissions process, you’ll receive your decision shortly after applying. We recommend submitting your graduate degree application as early as possible since enrollment is capped at 22 students per semester.
How long does it take to receive an admission decision?
After you’ve completed your Master's in Strategic Communications application and submitted the application fee, it typically takes one to two weeks to receive a decision. Notifications are sent out on a rolling basis.
Can I speak with faculty before applying?
Yes, both Program Director Erich Sommerfeldt and Outreach Director Scott Meyer are available to address any questions you may have about the graduate program in strategic communication. (Erich: [email protected], Scott: [email protected])
How can I apply?
Individuals currently working in strategic communication roles, such as advertising, public relations, or marketing, or those in communication positions within corporations, nonprofits, or government organizations, are encouraged to apply. Candidates with relevant experience or qualifications that demonstrate strong potential will also be considered. Learn more about our application requirements.
Is a master’s thesis required for the professional degree?
No, a master’s thesis is not required. Instead, you will complete a Capstone Project where you’ll design, write, and present a strategic communication campaign or case study for an organization. This project allows you to showcase your mastery of the program's curriculum, including research, planning, execution and evaluation, while demonstrating how communication strategy can address challenges or opportunities faced by the organization.
When do Strategic Communication classes start?
Students can start their strategic communication courses in either September or January, depending on their application timing.
Are GRE scores required for admission?
GRE scores are not required for applications submitted for the 2026 admission cycle.
Can prior coursework in public relations, advertising or journalism count toward the master's degree in strategic communication?
This graduate program is specifically designed to provide advanced education in strategic communication. Students are required to complete all 30 credits of communication courses within the program's structured curriculum.
Is the MA in Strategic Communication offered online?
Yes, most required strategic communications major courses are offered in a synchronous online format at scheduled times. Some electives, however, may include in-person or hybrid options. The master's degree in strategic communication can accommodate students needing to complete their degree fully online. For more details, contact [email protected].
Is it possible to complete the Master's in Strategic Communications part-time?
The professional degree is designed as a full-time degree for working professionals, with classes typically held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings (5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.) during the fall and spring, and one evening per week in the summer. Students take six credits per semester, completing the graduate program in two years. While part-time enrollment is rare, students interested in this option should consult with the program directors during the application process.