Master's in Strategic Communication & Public Relations

Allow your skills to shine with an MA in Strategic Communication & Public Relations (SCPR) from Sacred Heart. Gain the cutting-edge education you need to succeed in any role that demands compelling content and dynamic messaging. Pair theory and practice in a master’s program that will provide you with essential communication knowledge and exciting, hands-on experience.

Learn more about tuition rates and payment options for the SCPR program.

Why Earn Your MA in Strategic Communication & Public Relations at Sacred Heart?

With the guidance of SHU’s expert faculty, which includes award-winning scholars and media professionals, you will build the advanced skills needed to communicate effectively across media platforms in an ethical and socially responsible manner. Throughout the program, you’ll:

• Benefit from personalized attention and individualized preparation with small class sizes of 10-15 students
• Attend workshops and guest lectures from leading experts
• Leverage Sacred Heart University’s network of 100+ industry partners to gain hands-on internship experience with a media or communications organization

Learning Outcomes

Learn to plan, create, and distribute multimedia content while developing a theoretical and practical understanding of the field. Additionally, you will:

• Develop technical skills to create and implement strategic communication campaigns, events, and presentations
• Enhance your communication, teamwork, problem solving, planning, and leadership skills
• Build a digital portfolio that demonstrates highly skilled communication and advanced training in the latest media technologies to potential employers

Graduate in One Year

• Full time: Complete your degree in one year by attending class two nights a week
• Part time: Complete your degree in two years by attending class one night a week

Hands-On Learning

Advance your knowledge and skills for today’s global marketplace in SHU’s state-of-the-art facilities, including media production studios and interactive laboratories, in the Frank & Marisa Martire Center for the Liberal Arts, a $50 million, 120,000-square-foot world-class facility offering unparalleled resources. The Dr. Michelle C. Loris ’70 Forum and media theater provide opportunities to produce professional multi-camera, live-streamed programs with live audiences.

Integrated Laptop Program

SCPR students receive a MacBook Pro laptop to keep, fully equipped with the latest Apple and Adobe software. Their coursework includes training with industry-standard platforms for content creation.

Internships

SCPR students complete an internship and gain valuable experience while receiving academic credit for their learning experiences. Sacred Heart’s close proximity to the New York City/Tri-State region strategically positions students in the heart of a global creative corridor, giving then the opportunity to gain experience at high-profile companies and nonprofit organizations. Students build meaningful industry connections and professional résumés during these internships.

Career Outlook

Strategic communication and public relations are growing fields driven by the rise of digital media and online communication. Organizations need professionals who can create and share content across websites, social media, podcasts, video platforms, and other digital channels. Companies, nonprofits, and public agencies also rely on skilled communicators to connect with audiences and manage their public image. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for public relations specialists is projected to grow 5% through 2034, showing continued demand for professionals who can communicate effectively across changing media platforms.

Where Our Graduates Work

Graduates are employed across health care, media, marketing, communications, education, workforce development, and business. They build careers in nationally recognized organizations as well as strong regional employers and industry-specific firms. 

Professional Development

SCPR graduate students receive a PRSSA membership, which offers professional development, networking opportunities, internship and job listings, and news on the latest industry trends.

Degree Options for Incoming Students & Current SHU Undergraduates

Incoming First-Year Students: 4+1 Dual Degree Program

Students may apply to the Bachelor’s-Master of Arts in strategic communication & public relations (SCPR) dual degree program as incoming freshmen and are admitted directly into the graduate program upon their admission as undergraduate students for a streamlined experience leading to a master's degree.

Current SHU Undergraduates: 4+1 Combined Degree Program

Sacred Heart undergraduates can fast-track their future by earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just five years. Work with your adviser to develop your 4+1 plan.

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