Thinking about advancing your education with a graduate degree? If you're seeking to build valuable communication, leadership, and strategic thinking skills, then a Master of Arts (MA) in Strategic Communication could be the ideal path for you. Plus, with convenient online degree options from the University of Minnesota (UMN), you can even pursue your degree without the need to attend classes on a physical campus.
The Shift Toward Online Graduate Education
More than ever, graduate students are taking some or all of their classes online — a trend that doesn't show signs of slowing down. In fact, according to data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education System (IPEDS), 39.1% of graduate students were enrolled exclusively in online classes in 2023.
How Graduate Education Has Evolved in the Digital Age
Innovations in online learning technology have made remote learning more accessible than ever, especially for graduate students. Namely, advancements in learning management systems (LMS) and widespread availability of remote learning tools (like Zoom) make it possible to replicate the face-to-face, classroom learning experience from afar.
Why Flexibility Matters for Working Professionals
For those working full time or with other personal commitments on their plates, having the convenience of a flexible online education could be the difference between pursuing an advanced degree and remaining stagnant. With fully fully asynchronous, synchronous, and even hybrid program options, graduate students now have access to the flexibility they need to work an education into their packed schedules.
The Rise of Online Strategic Communication Programs
Many online graduate programs in strategic communication, such as UMN’s Professional MA in Strategic Communication, have emerged from an increased demand for quality distance education. Because today's strategic communication roles require proficiency in working with digital communication platforms and other functional technology, online learning in communication studies gives students the opportunity to work on skills that can be readily applied to their future work in the field.
What Makes Online Graduate Education the New Standard?
More graduate students are enrolling in online degree programs — and for good reason. Not only do online programs save busy graduate students time, but they also offer greater accessibility.
Breaking Barriers: Removing the Commute and Geographic Limitations
Before the age of online degree programs, graduate students were limited to attending colleges within commuting distance or had to relocate to attend graduate school. Today, online programs effectively remove geographic barriers, making it feasible for students to attend school just about anywhere without having to deal with a long commute.
Accessibility for Working Adults, Caregivers, and Professionals Worldwide
Meanwhile, without having to choose solely from schools that are within commuting distance, online degree programs offer additional accessibility and inclusivity to students of all backgrounds. Working adults, busy caregivers, and just about anyone in between can take advantage of flexible graduate programs and advance their education without having to attend classes on a physical campus.
Maintaining Academic Rigor While Offering Flexible Delivery
Finally, flexible graduate programs are designed with online education standards in mind — so students can rest assured that they are receiving a rigorous, quality education that gives them the opportunity to build essential knowledge and career-ready skills.
Strategic Communication Programs Online vs. On-Campus
How does online learning in communication studies compare to the on-campus learning experience? Let's take a closer look at the University of Minnesota's Professional MA in Strategic Communication, which can be completed online or in person.
Curriculum Similarities: Theory, Practice, and Applied Projects
Regardless of format, this program consists of the same degree requirements: 30 graduate credits, along with the same 24 graduate-level courses in communication and a three-credit individual project. Rather than a thesis, students in this program (online or in person) complete a capstone project that allows them to demonstrate their mastery of essential skills such as research, planning, execution, and evaluation with a faculty mentor.
Differences in Delivery: Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Classes
The University of Minnesota's Strategic Communication Master's degree is offered with in-person classes for those who prefer face-to-face interaction. For online students, many courses are delivered in either a synchronous (live) or asynchronous format to accommodate various schedules. Typically, synchronous sessions are held on weeknight evenings via Zoom, though you can check with Graduate Student Services for updated course schedules each term.
How Online Cohorts Foster Belonging and Collaboration
Even in an online cohort, students in a graduate program can build a sense of community and camaraderie that could last well beyond grad school. Online instructors, for example, are well-versed at cultivating a welcoming environment where students are encouraged to get to know one another and build a shared sense of identity. In addition, students in an online degree program can enjoy diverse viewpoints that come from varied backgrounds and locations.
Benefits of Earning a Graduate Degree Online in Strategic Communication
Wondering whether an online master’s in strategic communication might be right for you? Below are a few key benefits to consider as you weigh your options.
Flexibility to Balance Work, School, and Personal Life
First, consider how you could benefit from the added flexibility and versatility that a 100% online graduate degree program affords. Whether you're a busy professional working a full-time role or a caregiver juggling multiple responsibilities, an online degree program offers the flexibility you need to strike a healthier balance between your work, schooling, and personal life.
Cost Savings: Reduced Commuting, Housing, and Relocation Expenses
Could attending an online graduate degree program actually save you money? When you consider the cost savings of not having to relocate to be close to a physical campus or commute to classes, it's evident how an online degree program could add up to save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Enhanced Digital Skills for Modern Communication Careers
An online strategic communication master's degree is an optimal program to pursue online, particularly given the digital nature of professional communication today. By learning how to more effectively communicate through digital means (including synchronous and asynchronous platforms), students may be better prepared to take on strategic communication roles in advertising, public relations, and beyond.
Career Advantages of an Online Strategic Communication Master's Degree
While earning a degree alone doesn't guarantee a specific job in the field, the skills and knowledge gained in an online strategic communication master's degree could prepare you for roles across numerous disciplines.
Preparing for Leadership Roles in PR, Corporate Communication, and Media
As part of a master's in strategic communication program, students take coursework centered around such essential skills as:
- Research and analytics
- Leadership and team collaboration
- Enhanced writing and presentation
- Cultural competency and global perspective
- Ethical and legal knowledge in communication
- Strategic planning and message development
These kinds of skills are necessary to prepare for leadership roles across fields, ranging from public relations and corporate communication to marketing and advertising.
Employers’ Perceptions of Online Graduate Education
Today's employers tend to value online graduate degrees just as much as in-person degrees, although this can vary from one situation to the next. One research study by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) found that 54% of global employers surveyed considered an online degree to be "of equal value to a degree from an in-person program."
Ultimately, the key is to choose a program from an accredited and reputable school that follows global graduate education standards.
Tips for Thriving in an Online Graduate Program
If you're looking to enroll in an online graduate degree program, here are a few practical tips you can follow to get the most out of the experience:
Time Management and Organization for Busy Professionals
Work on sharpening your motivation, self-discipline, and time management skills. Though the flexibility of an online degree program can be convenient, the lack of structure can create challenges for busy professionals. Get into the habit of scheduling your schoolwork into your day, setting aside dedicated hours each week for reading, studying, and completing assignments.
Engaging Actively in Virtual Discussions and Group Projects
Online graduate programs are unique in that it's up to you what you derive from them. Rather than sitting idly by and doing the "bare minimum," you'll get more out of the experience when you make yourself an active participant in group discussions. No matter if your class meets asynchronously or has occasional live sessions, taking initiative to ask questions and interject your opinions can lead to valuable discourse and new insights.
Building Relationships With Faculty and Peers Online
Just because your classes are online doesn't mean you can't build meaningful connections with your instructors and peers. There's a solid chance your professors will offer online office hours, which are ideal for asking questions and solidifying your understanding of key concepts. Likewise, you might consider setting up online study groups or other virtual meetups with peers as a means of building connection and camaraderie.
Why Strategic Communication Is Well-Suited for Online Learning
For those interested in earning a strategic communication degree at the graduate level, there are various reasons to consider studying this discipline online.
Digital-First Industry Skills Align With Online Education Methods
For one, the types of skills that professionals in strategic communication need to possess these days align well with online distance education methods. Specifically, learning to communicate with peers and instructors using virtual platforms (ranging from discussion boards to synchronous options like Zoom) could prepare you for the realities of working in the field.
Simulating Real-World Scenarios in Virtual Platforms
By their very nature, online learning environments empower strategic communications students to build the practical skills they'll need to thrive in the real world. For example, students in an online degree program may gain valuable experience with multimedia content creation, the use of digital tools, and the 24/7 nature of strategic communication that could prepare them for real-world challenges and opportunities.
Preparing for Careers in a Globally Connected Communication Landscape
In an online strategic communication master's program, you'll collaborate and connect not just with peers in your immediate geographic area — but also with students across the country and beyond. This, in turn, could prepare you for future work in a globally connected communication landscape, where being open to diverse ideas and ways of thinking could serve to your advantage.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Looking to earn your Strategic Communication MA degree entirely online? The University of Minnesota offers a flexible curriculum that can be completed in just two years. Get in touch to request more information about this program or get started with your application for admission today.
Sources
- https://hsjmc.umn.edu/graduate/degree-programs/professional-ma-strategic-communication
- https://hsjmc.umn.edu/graduate/degree-programs/professional-ma-strategic-communication/professional-ma-courses-curriculum
- https://hsjmc.umn.edu/how-apply-professional-masters-program
- Cultural competency and global perspective
- https://hsjmc.umn.edu/graduate/contact-graduate-student-services
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5749962/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387755568_UNDERSTANDING_STRATEGIC_COMMUNICATION_SKILLS
- https://educationdata.org/cost-of-online-education-vs-traditional-education
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/247989298_Seeking_balance_in_graduate_school_A_realistic_expectation_or_a_dangerous_dilemma
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12528-024-09424-2
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370271612_Effectiveness_of_synchronous_and_asynchronous_online_learning_a_meta-analysis
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371192223_The_Impact_of_Learning_Management_System_LMS_Usage_on_Students
- https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/trendgenerator/app/build-table/2/42?rid=87&cid=85
- https://www.apa.org/ed/precollege/psn/2017/01/importance-networking
- https://www.gmac.com/-/media/files/gmac/research/prospective-student-data/2023_research_onlinehybridlearning_v4_final.pdf
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374991803_Managing_and_Structuring_Your_Time_in_Graduate_School
