Master of Science in Communication

About the Program

Drexel’s Master of Science in Communication prepares students for careers in a wide range of professional activities. The program specializes in three areas: technical communication, science communication, and public communication. Technical communication is for those seeking employment as technical writers, computer documentation specialists, and training specialists. Science communication has much to offer those who aspire to medical, science, and pharmaceutical writing. A concentration in public communication leads to careers in journalism and public relations. In addition, the program provides a strong foundation in theoretical approaches to communication. This theoretical basis is designed to ensure that, as the field changes, students will continue to have an intellectual framework for evaluating and implementing new technology and changing media.

Students can attend full time or part time, they can begin the program in any academic quarter, and they can complete all coursework in the evening. The program emphasizes flexibility, encouraging each student, in consultation with a faculty advisor, to fashion a particular course of study.

The program accommodates students from widely varying educational backgrounds: Many have backgrounds in science and mathematics; an equal number come from humanities-related areas. Some students pursue their degrees while already at work at demanding jobs in technical or scientific fields; others are new to the field.

Requirements

The MS degree requires 45 credits of coursework, a professional portfolio of three to five items developed by the student, and six months of internship for those who lack significant experience in communication related fields.

Portfolio

As a final graduation requirement, each student must submit a professional exit portfolio. Based on coursework and professional assignments, the portfolio undergoes a rigorous process of review by faculty members and by a professional outside the university.

Internship

Students who need professional experience consult with their advisors and the program director to develop a suitable internship. Normally, this placement begins after the student has completed at least half the required coursework. Students who already have the equivalent of six months of professional experience or who gain the equivalent by working part time during their course of study can request exemption from this requirement.

Curriculum

Students may use electives to increase communication skills, to broaden theoretical backgrounds, or to develop areas of specialization. Any appropriate graduate course offered in the University can serve as an elective if the student has sufficient background to take the course. In addition, the program offers its own elective courses including special topics (COM 690). Qualified students may also pursue independent study for elective credit in special cases.

Core Courses			Credits
COM 500	Reading and Research in Communication			3.0
COM 610	Theories of Communication and Persuasion			3.0
Concentrations
Technical Communication
COM 510	Technical Writing			3.0
COM 570	Technical and Science Editing			3.0
COM 620	Message Design and Evaluation			3.0
COM 630	Developing Software Documentation			3.0
COM 875	Ethics in Technical and Science Communication			3.0
	Electives			24.0
Science Communication
COM 520	Science Writing			3.0
COM 570	Technical and Science Editing			3.0
COM 620	Message Design and Evaluation			3.0
COM 670	Medical Writing			3.0
COM 875	Ethics in Technical and Science Communication			3.0
	Electives			24.0
Public Communication
COM 635	Electronic Publishing			3.0
COM 650	Telecommunications Policy			3.0
COM 660	Investigative Journalism			3.0
COM 680	Public Relations Strategies			3.0
COM 880	Seminar: Ethics for Public Communication			3.0
	Electives			24.0