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Master of Arts in Media and Strategic Communication

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Academics / Departments & Programs / Communication / Academics Master of Media and Strategic Communication

Degree Overview

Are you interested in applied communications careers like advertising, public relations, and multimedia journalism? The MMSC’s unique combination of training in both communication strategy and media-making practice can help you achieve a competitive edge.

No media production experience? No problem! The program begins with an 8-week “Basics of Media Production” course to get you up to speed.

Significant media experience but you’re not sure how to use it? Great! In the MMSC you’ll harness your creativity by building strategies to reach your audience, craft messages for different platforms, and evaluate their effectiveness. Gain the skills you need to communicate with power and integrity in an ever-changing world. Join us!

The MMSC is currently offered on-campus and is accepting applications for fall starts on a rolling basis.

Program Distinctives

Set your own pace - Take courses both online and in the classroom, at a pace that fits your schedule. You can earn your master's degree from Calvin in as little as one year.
Ask important questions - Your classes are taught by committed Christian professors who will challenge you to think through tough questions about ethics in communication careers. You'll learn to advocate for the people, communities, and businesses you serve.
Gain real-world experience - You’ll apply what you’re learning through participation in Skylight, our student-run creative media agency, working with experienced professionals to create strategies and content for real clients.

Degree Information

Graduate Degree
  • Courses
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  • Other Details

    Frequently asked questions

    Tuition, program costs, and financial aid

    What is the cost of the program?
    Tuition for the 2023-2024 academic year is $660 per credit hour.

    Can I apply for financial aid?
    Yes. All U.S. graduate students are eligible for up to $20,500 in federal loan aid. Students seeking loan aid must complete the FAFSA form and are encouraged to consult with a Calvin financial aid officer before starting the program.

    Are scholarships available?
    At this time, there are no scholarships available for this program.

    Are assistantships available?
    Yes, two MMSC students are hired as graduate assistants annually to work on marketing initiatives through the Calvin Global Campus.

    Can I get a discount if I live in-state?
    No, the cost of the program is the same for all students regardless of where a student resides.

    What is the typical cost of course materials?
    Costs vary, but students can expect to spend an average of $50–$100 per course on textbooks.

    Will I need to pay a student service or wellness fee?
    Yes, the service fee is $103 per semester.

    Scheduling and requirements

    Who can apply for this program?
    Students may apply to the program after completing a four-year degree at an accredited academic institution. A cumulative grade point average of at least a 3.0 in the last two years of undergraduate education is required for admittance to the program.

    When does the program begin?
    Applications are currently being accepted for cohorts beginning in August 2023, August 2024, and January 2025. Please note that students without prior media production experience will be required to complete COMM 500 Basics of Media Production, a 1-credit-hour online asynchronous course, *BEFORE* their start date, either in late summer for an August start, or late fall for a January start.

    When is my application due?
    Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

    How long do I have to complete the program?
    The program may be completed full-time in one year (three semesters) or part-time in as little as two years (five semesters). All students are required to complete the program within a maximum of four years from enrollment.

    How many credit hours are required?
    The program requires a total of 32-34 credit hours.

    What courses do I need to take?
    Please refer to the "Courses" tab above for required courses and descriptions.

    When do classes take place?
    Most courses are offered in-person in the evenings.

    How many credit hours do I need to take to be considered full-time?
    Students taking a minimum of 8 hours per semester are considered full-time, though students will need to take 9–12 credit hours per semester to complete the program in one year.

    Can I be a part-time student?
    Absolutely. Our goal is to make this program accessible and convenient for all students. Each student will be assigned an advisor who will work with them to design the best schedule to address both the program requirements and the student’s unique needs.

  • Admission

    Who can apply?

    Students can apply after finishing a four-year degree at an accredited academic institution. You'll also need a cumulative grade point average of at least a 3.0 in the last two years of undergraduate education for admission.

    Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

          APPLY NOW      

    Admission Requirements

    1. Complete the online application
    2. Submit current resumé Include as part of online application, or after application submission from your application status page.
    3. Submit two professional recommendations Provide contact information for recommenders as part of online application. Recommenders will submit recommendations directly to Calvin.
    4. Optional: Submit a demo reel, portfolio, or work sample Include links or files as part of online application, or after application submission from your application status page.
    5. Submit the following additional deliverables by email, or mail to Calvin University admissions (see contact information below):
      • Official transcripts from each college or university attended
      • Email to mmsc@calvin.edu Mail Calvin University Admissions, 3201 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
    6. See additional requirements for international students

    Request Information

    If you're not ready to apply, let us know you're interested and we'll keep you in the loop.

    I'm Interested

    You're also encouraged to email us if you want to discuss this program further. We look forward to meeting you soon. Email mmsc@calvin.edu

  • Careers

    Use your degree to thrive as a(n):

    • Public Relations Specialist
    • Advertising Executive/Planner
    • Social Media Manager
    • Content Manager
    • Advertising Manager
    • Promotions Manager
    • Marketing Manager
    • Digital Marketing Manager
    • Film and Video Editor 
    • Camera Operator
    • Multimedia Journalist

Cutting-edge facilities

At Calvin, you'll have access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities—everything from extensive digital editing suites to production studios to several theaters. Learn more »

Video production facility
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Take the next step

Ready to learn more about how Calvin's master of arts in media and strategic communication can hone your skills and expand your career options? Let us know—we'll be in touch!

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