Michigan State University's online Master's in Strategic Communication is a professional degree designed for working communicators ready to advance their careers. The 30-credit program (10 courses) can be completed in 12-18 months while working full-time. Courses are taught 100% online and asynchronously by MSU's leading communications faculty, giving you the flexibility to balance work, life, and graduate education without sacrificing academic rigor.
What makes this program different? You'll learn from the same faculty who teach on MSU's campus, earn a Big Ten degree and apply what you learn immediately to your current role.
What will you learn in the Strategic Communication M.A.? Strategic, data-driven communication skills are among the most in-demand competencies employers seek. With your Strategic Communication master's degree from Michigan State, you will be prepared to:
StratCom graduates see measurable career advancement. According to program data, 92% of graduates report career growth within one year of completing the program, including promotions, salary increases, and expanded leadership responsibilities.
Graduates of Strategic Communication can expect job titles and median salaries similar to the following:
Disclaimer: Salary data is sourced from © 2026 Lightcast, based on information from the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW). Please note that this information is intended solely for reference purposes. MSU Online disclaims any responsibility or liability for any inaccuracies, omissions, or errors in the data.
The university reserves the right to make changes in the types, structures, rates for fees, and tuition. Every effort will be made to give as much advance notice as possible. In addition to tuition and fees, there are other expenses associated with your Cost of Attendance. A breakdown of a graduate student budget can be found on the "Estimate Your Cost of Attendance" page.
You can be ensured a return on your investment at Michigan State University.
As one of the top research universities in the world, Michigan State University has advanced the common good with uncommon will since 1855.
MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community.
MSU has been offering online degree programs since 1998. Our maturity is evident in the high quality of the learning experience enjoyed by our online students.
MSU provides programs and initiatives that support and enhance diversity. We will expand our campus and external partnerships to put in place inclusive recruitment and retention practices. We nurture and promote individuals’ varied experiences and perspectives, ensuring structures and processes make possible full participation by all members of our community.
MSU actively collaborates with campus and external partners to innovate across all dimensions of graduate education. We create and support networks that increase collaboration and improve educational opportunities for our online students.
MSU’s nationally recognized online programs foster student growth and well-being throughout their academic career. We will expand inclusive mentoring practices and accelerate improvement across units to implement evidence-based practices to ensure our students complete successfully.
Continuing education can be one of the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding experiences you undertake in your life. We hope you consider becoming a Spartan, to learn online and reach your career goals. With highly ranked online programs and exceptional professors, we educate students who advance the common good with uncommon will.