The University of Pikeville Master of Science (M.S.) in Strategic Communication, offered through the College of Arts and Sciences, is delivered online with courses being offered year-round. The M.S. in Strategic Communication is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills necessary for effective communication in today’s dynamic, technology-driven world. This program emphasizes the integration of theory, practice, and artificial intelligence (AI), providing students with a comprehensive understanding of strategic communication principles, digital media strategies, AI-powered tools, and audience engagement techniques. Through a rigorous curriculum that combines coursework in communication theory, public relations, marketing, media production, and AI applications, students will develop critical thinking, analytical, and creative skills needed to craft compelling messages and campaigns. Graduates will be well-prepared to leverage AI in communication strategies, navigate complex communication challenges across various industries, enhance organizational effectiveness, and drive positive change within their communities.
M.S. in Strategic Communication Admission Requirements
Applicants to the M.S. in Strategic Communication program must meet the following criteria:
- Complete the graduate program application for the M.S. in Strategic Communication program and submit the application fee.
- Hold an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university or college or meet the special admission requirements.
- Provide official transcripts of all post-secondary degree course work (undergraduate and graduate).
- Satisfy one of the following:
- an undergraduate cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (all undergraduate course work, including work completed after the baccalaureate degree, is used to calculate the cumulative GPA).
- a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework taken (all coursework taken in semester when the 60th semester hour was taken will be included in the GPA calculation).
- At least two references are required, highlighting the applicant's ability to succeed in graduate-level coursework and their potential for future career success. One reference must be from a faculty member.
- A 500-word Personal Statement addressing the applicant's professional goals and how those goals connect to Strategic Communication.
Applications, references, personal statements, and transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work should be sent to:
M.S. in Strategic Communication Admissions
University of Pikeville
147 Sycamore Street
Pikeville, KY 41501
Email: donnahunt@upike.edu
All M.S. in Strategic Communication program applications will be reviewed by the Strategic Communication Graduate Program Review Committee who will make the final admissions determination. A personal interview may be recommended prior to enrollment.
To earn the M.S., a student must complete thirty (30) credit hours of graduate-level course work. All course work (including transfer work) used to meet the requirements for a degree must have been completed no more than ten years prior to degree completion. The University of Pikeville reserves the right, even after the enrollment of students, to make individual curricular adjustments whenever serious deficiencies or needs are found. This may involve additional coursework whenever necessary. Deficiencies will be determined by the program faculty. Students may be required to take such courses without credit toward the master's degree and at their own expense.
Students admitted to the M.S. program will complete 30 credit hours presented below.