What You’ll Learn in Merrimack’s Communication Master’s Program
Merrimack’s Master of Arts in Communication degree offers a solid foundation in communication theories that shape communication analysis and strategy. Additionally, coursework incorporates various platforms, technologies, and tools to execute a communication strategy.
You will graduate with a robust resume and portfolio. We offer the following resources and opportunities:
- Media production spaces and equipment, such as a television studio, radio station, Mac lab and field production tools
- Industry partnerships for networking, experiential learning and special events
- Small class sizes and a “high touch” environment giving you one-on-one attention and advising from your first course through the completion of your capstone project
Career Opportunities with a Master’s Degree in Communication
Our graduates are well-equipped for careers in public relations, nonprofit management, advertising, event planning, multimedia production, marketing, social media marketing/management, development, corporate communication, and community relations, among others. Our graduate degree in communications will help you qualify for more jobs and advance more quickly in your chosen field.
Master’s in communications jobs are on the rise as employers seek out skilled professional communicators. According to the 2019 Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in public relations, marketing, and advertising is projected to grow 6-7%, which is faster than average in the next 10 years. Fundraising managers are expected to grow at 9%, a rate much faster than average. Social and community service managers expect even greater growth, at 17%.
Admission Requirements for the Communications Master’s Program
You must have a degree in a liberal arts, art, or humanities discipline, with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. We require that you submit a recommendation letter from a professor or professional outside of the Merrimack Communication and Media department, a writing sample from a previous course or work project (research paper, opinion piece, newsletter article, press release, market analysis paper, etc.), a statement of purpose, and an undergraduate transcript. If you have under a 3.0 overall undergraduate GPA, please address any unique circumstances in your statement of purpose that will show your preparedness for graduate-level work.
There is no fee to apply to the MA in communication and there is no GRE requirement. However, we encourage you to submit test scores if you feel they will support or enhance your academic background.
“Our department prepared the Masters in Communication program very carefully, by looking at market analysis, assessing student interest, and analyzing job market data. We are proud to launch this program that offers students a solid foundation in communication theory while enhancing their crucial skills in strategic communication and digital media.”
― Lisa Perks, Associate Professor and Department Chair of Communication and Media