Take Your Communication Skills to the Next Level at SHU

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Discover why Sacred Heart’s master's in communication is the ideal path for building confidence, creativity and real-world expertise

Key Highlights

  • SHU’s MACOMM program is designed for working professionals and full-time students, with evening classes and no career interruption 
  • Open to students from any academic or professional background—no prior communication experience required 
  • Combines communication theory with hands-on skill building in digital media, storytelling, strategy and public communication 

In today’s media-driven world, the ability to communicate clearly, creatively and strategically is one of the most valuable skills you can bring into any career. Whether you want to advance professionally, pivot industries or deepen your understanding of how communication shapes society, a graduate degree can open doors. If you’re exploring programs, Sacred Heart’s Master of Arts in communication (MACOMM) is one that truly stands out.

“Strong communication isn’t just a skill—it’s a competitive advantage. The ability to think strategically, craft clear messages and understand audiences is what sets great professionals apart in every industry,” said Taciane Batista, director of the program.

Shape the stories that shape the world Fuel your imagination with SHU’s master’s in communication

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A Flexible Program Designed for Real Life

One of the biggest advantages of this communication studies master’s for professionals is its flexibility. The program is structured specifically to meet the needs of full-time students and working professionals.

  • Full-time students can complete their degree in one year, with evening classes held twice per week.
  • Part-time students can finish in two years, attending just one night per week.

This means you can pursue a graduate degree without pausing your job or disrupting your schedule.

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No Communication Background Required

You don’t need to have majored in communication or worked in media to apply. SHU welcomes students from any academic or professional background.

This makes the program ideal for:

  • Career changers
  • Recent graduates exploring new fields
  • Professionals who want communication skills to complement their role
  • Anyone who wants to sharpen their storytelling, media literacy and strategic thinking

It’s a program built to expand your opportunities, not limit them.

A Strong Combination of Theory and Hands-On Experience

One of SHU’s biggest strengths is the balance between classroom knowledge and practical skill building. Students don’t just study communication; they create. Students learn key communication topics—media literacy, audience behavior messaging, ethics and analysis—while also developing real-world abilities like:

  • Digital media skills
  • Writing and storytelling
  • Visual communication
  • Strategic messaging
  • Presentation and public communication
  • Research and critical analysis

This program culminates in a communication portfolio, which showcases your work and becomes a powerful tool when applying for jobs or advancing your career.

When you graduate, you won’t just have a degree; you’ll have proof of what you can do.

Access to Professional-Level Resources and Professors

SHU is known for its strong School of Communication, Media & the Arts. MACOMM students benefit from:

  • Professional-grade media labs and production studios with up-to-date equipment
  • Multimedia tools
  • Faculty with real industry experience
  • A supportive and collaborative learning environment

This allows students to experiment, create and build communication confidence in a setting that mirrors real professional environments.

A Location that Boosts Opportunity

Sacred Heart University’s location in Fairfield places students near one of the biggest media markets in the world: New York City

This proximity opens doors to:

  • Guest speakers and events
  • Industry collaborations

For anyone entering communication—from corporate to creative roles—being close to major media and business hubs is a significant advantage.

A Degree that Opens Many Doors

A master’s degree in communication isn’t just for one type of career. It strengthens your ability to think, lead, persuade, analyze and create—skills that are in demand everywhere.

Graduates pursue roles in:

  • Public relations
  • Corporate communication
  • Digital communication
  • Marketing
  • Media and content creation
  • Nonprofits
  • Education
  • Government
  • And countless emerging fields shaped by technology and storytelling

Because communication is central to every industry, this degree gives you versatility and long-term career stability.

“What makes SHU’s master’s degree in communication so valuable is the range of experience you gain. You’re exposed to every corner of communication and media— writing, strategy, storytelling, digital tools—so you graduate with a complete, industry-ready skill set,” said Batista

Interested in applying to SHU’s master's in communication program?

To learn more about the communication studies master’s for professionals, schedule a meeting with Ed Nassr or reach out at nassre@sacredheart.edu or 203-396-6877.

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