Online Master of Arts in Communication

Learn how to reach a target audience strategically, creatively, and effectively by building your digital media marketing skillset. Take foundational classes in research, professional ethics, advanced writing, innovation, digital strategies, and visual communication, then choose from a menu of electives to further specialize your degree in digital storytelling, business, law and public policy, leadership, or health and science.

This track sharpens your leadership and multimedia communication skills, while allowing you to tailor electives to suit your career goals.  Take foundational classes in research, professional ethics, advanced writing, innovation, digital strategies, and visual communication, then choose from a menu of electives to further specialize your degree in digital storytelling, business, law and public policy, leadership, or health and science.

Prepare yourself for professional leadership by learning how to navigate the world of politics, legislation, public policy, and advocacy.  Take foundational classes in research, professional ethics, advanced writing, innovation, digital strategies, and visual communication, then choose from a menu of electives to further specialize your degree in digital storytelling, business, law and public policy, leadership, or health and science.

Ryan Stoldt - Assistant Professor, Director - Graduate Studies
ryan.stoldt@drake.edu

Kelly Bruhn - Professor, Public Relations
kelly.bruhn@drake.edu

Eric Adae - Assistant Professor
eric.adae@drake.edu

Jennifer Glover Konfrst - Associate Professor
jennifer.gloverkonfrst@drake.edu

Amy McCoy - Assistant Professor
amy.mccoy@drake.edu

Chris Snider - Associate Professor
christopher.snider@drake.edu

Lakshmi Tirumala - Associate Professor
lakshmi.tirumala@drake.edu

Jen Wilson - Peggy Fisher and Larry Stelter Chair of Magazine and Brand Media
jennifer.wilson@drake.edu

You will find the basic steps for applying below. In depth details, such as information for international students and where to send your transcripts, can be found at the bottom of this section under the dropdown titled “Application Step Details”.

1. Click here to open the graduate application portal.
2. Create or log in to an existing account.
3. Fill out the information required on the application. Please be prepared to provide information such as basic personal details, previous institutions attended, and your most current employment.
4. Submit copies of transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. Unofficial transcripts may be used for admittance. Upon acceptance, applicants will need to supply official transcripts into the application portal within 30 days after the start of the first course.
5. Submit an electronic copy of your résumé or curriculum vitae.
6. Submit an essay specific to your track focus. Details can be found in the drop down below.
7. Submit contact information for two professional recommendations.

Essay Options

• Communication Leadership Track: Discuss how your own personal and professional experiences inform your understanding of communication leadership. In your response, additionally discuss the applicability of communication leadership and our program to both your short and long term goals.
• Brand Communication Track: Identify a brand you believe has been, and continues to be effectively communicated in today’s marketplace. Persuasively explain what makes the brand effective in terms of communication practices.
• Public Affairs and Advocacy Track:

Option 1: Explain what cause and or advocacy organization you would most like to work for or support and why. In your response, consider how our program in Public Affairs and Advocacy would apply to your support of that organization/cause.

Option 2: Select a pressing issue facing society and persuasively advocate for a solution to that issue.Submit a short statement of purpose based on the following prompts. Respond to the prompt that aligns with the communications track you would like to pursue.

Transcript Information

Mail transcripts to:

Drake University
Attn: Drake Online & Continuing Education
2507 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50311

Or email:

drakeonline@drake.edu

Transfer Credits

Students may transfer a maximum of nine credit hours in graduate coursework from another accredited institution or from another Drake academic unit. All transfer credits must be earned with a grade of at least a “B-” and within five years prior to completing the Master of Arts in Communication degree. Common transfer credits could include core MBA courses or graduate English courses.

International Students

If a student earned her/his undergraduate degree outside of the United States, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is required. Scores dated within the last two years are acceptable and must be reported directly from the testing agency. Minimum acceptable TOEFL score is 213 on the computer-based exam, 550 on the paper-based exam, or 79-80 on the Internet-based exam. Minimum acceptable IELTS score is 6.5. Minimum scores on each section of reading, writing, speaking and listening may be required.

Duolingo test also accepted (minimum score of 110).

Drake University is committed to providing a high-quality education at an exceptional value.

Our online Master of Arts in Communication program consisting of 33 credit hours and priced at $663 per credit, equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to advance your career. This investment ensures you graduate with the expertise needed to stand out and make a meaningful impact in your field.

Tuition Details