- 2 Years
- Online
- Intake: Jan (Spring)
Overview
USIU-Africa’s online Master of Arts in Communications Studies program combines cutting-edge theory with practical application, equipping you with the skills needed to excel in today’s dynamic communication landscape. Our innovative curriculum integrates digital and mobile platforms, preparing you to meet the communication challenges of the modern world.
Program Highlights
Student-Centered Learning
Our pedagogical methods place you at the heart of the learning process. Through interactive online sessions, collaborative projects, and real-world case studies, you’ll develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for success.
A Focus on Technology and Digital Platforms
The program fully integrates the use of technology and focuses on digital and mobile communication strategies. You will gain expertise in various digital platforms and master the communication tools vital for today’s professional environment.
Dual Accreditation and Recognition
Real-World Relevance
Our curriculum is designed to directly apply to real-world communication challenges. Through case studies, practical exercises, and industry-relevant projects, you will develop the skills to confidently navigate complex communication scenarios.
Program Prerequisites
Students lacking a formal background in communications may be required to complete prerequisite survey courses. However, applicants with demonstrable comparable training may be exempt. Contact us to discuss your background and potential exemption.
Contact us
United States International University – Africa Off USIU Road, Off Thika Road (Exit 7), P. O. Box 14634 – 00800, Nairobi, Kenya, East Africa.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, you will be able to:
- Design and implement communication strategies for various types of organizations.
- Monitor and evaluate the impact of communication programs.
- Manage communication programs and projects in organizations and other settings.
- Analyze communication problems in various settings and develop evidence-based solutions.
- Apply research approaches and methods to interrogate communication issues at local and international context.
- Utilize descriptive digital technologies in communication practice.
- Apply theories to explore various societal communication issues.
Admission Requirements
The minimum University entrance qualifications are:
5 Sections > 31 Lessons > 78 Weeks
Core courses (27 Units)
- MAC 6010 Introduction to Graduate Studies (3 Units)
- MAC 6020 Communication Theory (3 Units)
- MAC 6030 Introduction to the Digital Age (3 Units)
- MAC 6040 Entrepreneurship for Communication Professionals (3 Units)
- MAC 6050 Communication Research Methods (3 Units)
- MAC 6060 Global Communication (3 Units)
- MAC 6120 Organizational Communication (3 Units)
- MAC 6850 Project (6 Units)
Concentrations - strategic corporate communications
Students can choose from three concentrations (15 Units): Strategic Corporate Communications, Digital Communication, and Communication for Development, allowing for specialization based on career interests.
- SCC 6110 Corporate Communication
- SCC 6130 Managing the Communication Function
- SCC 6140 PR Writing
- SCC 6160 Issues & Crisis Management
- SCC 6170 Communications Strategies and Campaigns
Concentrations - Digital Communication
Students can choose from three concentrations: Strategic Corporate Communications, Digital Communication, and Communication for Development, allowing for specialization based on career interests.
- DCM 6110 Multimedia Design
- DCM 6130 Digital Communication Strategy
- DCM 6140 Online Corporate Branding
- DCM 6160 Effective Web Design and Strategy
- DCM 6170 Social Media Strategies
Concentrations - communication for development
- CFD 6110 Development Communication Theory
- CFD 6120 Participatory Communication Strategy Design
- CFD 6130 Public Policy & Advocacy
- CFD 6140 Risk Communication
- CFD 6170 Program Monitoring & Evaluation
Electives
(Students to choose two; one in your concentration and any other)
- CFD 6160 Behavior Change Communication
- CFD 6180 Resource Mobilization
- DCM 6120 Digital Communication & Society
- DCM 6170 Social Media Strategies
- MDS 6130 Political Communication
- MDS 6190 Community Media and ICT in Development
- SCC 6120 Integrated Marketing Communication
- SCC 6140 PR Writing
1. What is the admission process for the Master of Arts in Communication Studies (Online) program?
The admission process involves submitting an application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
2. Will I be required to attend class each week?
The Master of Arts in Communication Studies is a fully online program and thus doesn’t require your physical or scheduled online presence.
3. What is the duration of the program?
The program typically takes two years to complete.
4. What are the career prospects after completing the program?
Graduates of the program have excellent career prospects in various communication fields, including public relations, corporate communications, and digital marketing.
Recipient of the 2024 QM Award for Outstanding Impact
The award recognizes outstanding dedication to best practices for online learning to serve and support learners around the globe