Master of Arts in Strategic Communication

The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication (MSCOM) at Women’s University in Africa (Level 9) is a programme focused on strategic communication theory and skills for interpersonal, intercultural, organisational, and mediated settings. Students study theories and principles of strategic communication, gender, communication and development, ethics and strategic communication, and advanced strategic communications. Research methods are included through advanced qualitative research methods and advanced quantitative research methods, alongside modules such as risk and crisis communication, public diplomacy and strategic communication, advanced publication and design, communication training and development, strategic communications in a digital era, and global media and cross-cultural communication.

The programme comprises eight taught courses and a dissertation. It includes evening, holiday/block release, and weekend classes. Study runs over a total period of eighteen months years across three parts: two semesters for taught courses and a third semester devoted to writing a supervised dissertation. Assessment is continuous and includes examinations, with coursework weighted at 30% and examination weighted at 70%. The programme includes contact time (lectures, seminars, and field visits) and scheduled assessment time through final written examinations, in-class tests, presentations, and practical skills.

Modules

• Theories and Principles of Strategic Communication
• Gender, Communication and Development
• Ethics and Strategic Communication
• Advanced Qualitative Research Methods
• Advanced Strategic Communications
• Risk and Crisis Communication
• Public Diplomacy and Strategic Communication
• Advanced Quantitative Research Methods
• Advanced Publication and Design
• Communication Training and Development
• Strategic Communications in a Digital Era
• Dissertation

A good relevant first general degree (Level 7) or honours degree (Level 8) with an equivalent of 2.2 degree class or an advanced diploma from a recognised institution of higher learning, subject to approval by the Admissions Committee. Prior learning may also be considered by the Admission Committee. In the latter case, three references certifying the candidate’s ability and suitability to undertake the programme are required.

• Internal/external organisational communication specialists in public sector private sector and non-profit sector
• Advertising
• Public relations
• Media Consultancy and entrepreneurship
• Publishing
• Social research