Strategic Communication Careers

The University of Oregon's master's degree in strategic communication prepares experienced professionals to lead communication strategy for businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits. Built for working professionals and taught at SOJC Portland in Oregon's largest media market, the program develops the research, campaign planning, crisis, strategic, and management skills that senior and executive communication roles demand. Students learn alongside a cohort of peers and connect directly with industry leaders through the Strategic Communication Leadership Network.

Most students are already working when they enroll, and they apply what they learn to their current jobs and to client capstone projects throughout the program. Graduates move into leadership across corporate communication, public relations, agencies, public affairs, and mission-driven organizations, with the strategic depth to advise leaders not just execute tactics.

Where Our Strategic Communication Graduates Work

Industries

  • Corporate and in-house communication
  • Public relations and consulting agencies
  • Government and public affairs
  • Nonprofits and foundations
  • Independent consulting and communication ventures

Job Roles

  • Chief communication officer
  • Internal communication director
  • Crisis communication manager
  • External affairs or public affairs director
  • Corporate communication or PR manager
  • Communication consultant or strategist
  • Senior copywriter or creative strategist

Meet Our Alumni

Already an experienced marketing and communications specialist, Brenda Buratti sought a master’s degree in strategic communication to add “teacher” to her career portfolio.
Argentinian native and self-described film buff Lucila Cejas parlayed the qualitative research expertise she gained through her Strategic Communication Master’s degree to connect with the Gen Z audience for a major animation studio.
More than 30 years after earning her undergraduate degree, Melissa De Lyser returned to college for a master’s in strategic communication. Now she’s the communications coordinator for the Washington County Department of Land Use and Transportation.
Ben Furr came to Portland by way of Buenos Aires, Austin, and New York City to seek a master’s in strategic communication. Now he’s a stakeholder communications manager at Cambia Health Solutions.

Ready to Build Your Career in Strategic Communication?

Explore how UO's Strategic Communication master's prepares you to lead communication strategy in corporate, agency, government, and nonprofit settings.