Communication is constantly evolving, influenced by the dynamic nature of technology and business trends. Our expert faculty designed this online program to produce advanced communication professionals who can craft and distribute ethical messages to achieve desired outcomes through the strategic use of face-to-face and mass media channels.
Quick Facts
Recommended Deadlines July 1 for fall start, December 1 for spring start
You Can Start Fall, Spring or Summer
Delivery Option(s) Main Campus, Online
In-State Cost $471 Per Credit
Credit Hours 33
Estimated Completion Time 2 Years
Overview
Our students will explore the theoretical foundations and practical aspects of communication research, particularly in settings that demand strategic communication, including organizational and mediated contexts. This opportunity is open to both recent graduates with a bachelor’s degree and current professionals, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of message creation, perception, interpretation and the profound implications of effective communication.
Curriculum
Our flexible curriculum empowers you to tailor your coursework to your specific interests by choosing from a diverse array of courses, in collaboration with guidance from your advisor.
Master of ArtsFlexibility and convenience with online degrees
An online graduate degree provides the flexibility to advance your education while maintaining your professional and personal commitments, offering convenience and accessibility for career enhancement and skill development.
Outcomes
Upon completing the program, graduates will possess a wealth of knowledge and a finely honed skill set for crafting impactful and suitable messages designed to drive systematic change, address intricate challenges, exert influence and engage in strategic communication across both face-to-face and mediated platforms.
Career Opportunities
- Agency or in-house digital marketing specialist
- Communications and public relations
- Content developer
- Human resources
- Marketing manager
- Multimedia specialist
Regardless of the workload each individual had based on their own schedules, I could always count on my graduate studies peers to review a paper for me or make sure my surveys in my research were pristine.
This program is an ideal blend of theory and application that reveals how communication can become much more than just clever PR or a well-written press release.
There are many Graduate Assistantship positions available for students and they are exactly what I needed to make my dream of having a master degree possible.
The Strategic Communication program offered me something unique from all other graduate communication programs. Our supportive instructors and fellow students made my graduate studies a rewarding experience.
Program Resources
Information Sessions
Learn about our graduate programs through our information sessions today!
The acceleration of the news cycle, further amplified by social media, has led to significant growth in strategic communication. SUNY Oswego professor Serenity Sutherland and student Valerie Puma discuss this trend on Bridge Street.
Available On-Campus
Oswego's strategic communication program is also available in person, providing an opportunity for collaboration and hands-on learning experiences.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT
Master's project examines students' relationships with technology
A group of master’s in strategic communication students, working a large-scale student survey from 2019, found students have a complicated relationship with technology and their smartphones.
Diversity Graduate Fellowship Program
Prospective students may be eligible for an award which includes an annual stipend, in addition to fully-paid tuition for full-time study.
More than 120 Graduate Assistantships Offered
Assistantships provide an opportunity to gain experience through professional work on campus.
The Power of SUNY Tuition
Achieving your long-term career goals shouldn’t come at the expense of your immediate financial security. Oswego offers low tuition compared to many private colleges. Never sacrificing quality for affordability, our graduate students are receiving a nationally accredited program that will translate into effective knowledge and opportunities.
$500,000
in total awards given every year to our graduate students
Admission Requirements
GRE scores are not required for an applicant to be considered for admission into this graduate program. Applicants who believe that a GRE score would strengthen their credentials have the option to submit a test score as part of their application package.
Your Statement of Purpose gives us valuable insight into who you are and why you’re interested in pursuing the Strategic Communication program. It’s one of the most important components of your application, as it helps our faculty understand your background and aspirations. We encourage you to take the time to thoughtfully craft your statement by following the instructions below.
When reviewing your statement, we will assess clarity, writing style (including grammar and spelling), demonstration of academic skills, and your ability to articulate your goals and objectives. We recommend that your statement be between 500 and 1,000 words, though the quality of your content is more important than the length. Please note that your statement must be your own original writing and should not rely on AI-generated content.
In your Statement of Purpose, you should aim to:
- Share key moments from your academic journey, including the questions and interests that have shaped your path as a student.
- Highlight your academic achievements and explain why they are meaningful to you.
- Describe the personal, professional, and academic skills you believe are most relevant to this program.
- Explain why this program is a good fit for you, what you hope to gain from it, and how it aligns with your professional goals.
You don’t need to address each point in the exact order listed above. Feel free to structure your statement in a way that best reflects who you are, as long as the necessary information is included.
Include a professional resume or curriculum vitae that includes your academic history, professional background and any accomplishments of note. This document should provide details that support your admittance to the program.
Indicate two names with valid email addresses. We will send an email request directly to the references on your behalf. These references should be able to speak to your character, work ethic and abilities.
Prospective students are charged a non-refundable $65 fee for processing the application.
Important: All international transcripts must be verified through a World Education Services (WES) credit evaluation as part of your application.
English Language Proficiency: Submit official TOEFL (79 overall, MBA 83) or IELTS (6.5) scores, unless exempt.
Visa and I-20 Documentation: After acceptance, upload your financial documents and passport copy to receive your Form I-20 for your visa application.
For more details, please visit Application Requirements for International Graduate Students.