Master of Arts in Global Communication

What You'll Study

Students in this program will take a rigorous academic program that prepares them both intellectually and professionally for exciting careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. As a student in the Global Communication program, you will learn about the fascinating and rapidly evolving global information environment. As a future or advancing professionally in the field, you will learn how to work in this environment and communicate effectively with audiences worldwide.

To earn your Master of Arts in Global Communication you must successfully complete our 40 credit program which includes 15 credits in core courses, 9 credits in either a Global Issue or Regional Field Specialization, one 3 credit Skills Course, and 9 credits of electives. You must also complete a 4 credit capstone project or enroll in the 3 credit Alternative Capstone Option. Students also have the option to pursue a thesis.

Global Issues

Global areas are selected to complement the background and interests of the individual student. Courses composing the focus areas may be offered through the Elliott School or SMPA, as well as other departments at GW.

Regional Specializations

If you find you're interested in studying conflict and extremism in the Middle East or the changing economies in Latin America, you can choose a regional field to fulfill your elective requirements.

Global Capstone

Global Capstone is the culminating experience and signature project for Elliott School graduate students.

Prerequisites

Foreign Languages

Academic coursework in a foreign language, which will prepare students to complete the program’s language requirement*, is required at the time of application. This can be demonstrated by:

• A study that is equal to four semesters of university-level coursework or equivalent.
• Completion of formal language training as part of employment (ex. Peace Corps, JET, etc.).
• Growing up in a household where the language is spoken.

*Students need to have a strong foundation in a foreign language before enrolling to be successful in completing the language requirement during the program.

Economics

Course background in economics (micro- and macroeconomics) is a prerequisite to help prepare students to complete the graduate- level economics course(s) required within the M.A. in Global Communication curriculum. Course(s) must be successfully completed through an accredited institution in:

• Introductory Microeconomics
• Introductory Macroeconomics

or

• Principles of Economics

In some cases, a student may be admitted who has not fulfilled the economics requirement*; in which case, the student is required to take course(s) at an accredited college/university prior to enrollment at the Elliott School.

*Spring applicants are required to have fulfilled this prerequisite at the time of application.

Affiliated Institute

IPDGC provides a forum for faculty, students, and working professionals on global issues via interactions between new media, national security, and public diplomacy, U.S. foreign policy priorities in the developing world and many more.

Where You'll Go

Our graduates continue to pursue a wide variety of exciting careers in diplomacy and public service, business, security, conflict resolution, development, and public health. For 2016 graduates, the top employers included:

• U.S. Department of State
• Atlantic Council
• U.S. Institute of Peace
• Mintz Levin
• Meridian International Center
• U.S. House of Representatives
• Chemonics

While you study with us and even once you leave, we'll provide you with resources and support to help you get the job you've always wanted post-graduation. From career counseling, workshops, site visits, and information sessions, The Graduate Student Career Development Center has a variety of tools and tips to get you to where you want to be.