Is the Strategic Communication Master's program offered in person or online?

The program is based in Portland, Oregon, and offers both in-person and online classes, with hybrid options available. In-person classes are held evenings and weekends at the SOJC Portland campus, making the program accessible for working professionals. Unlike UO's fully online programs, tuition varies by Oregon residency status.

What makes the University of Oregon's Strategic Communication Master's program unique?

The Strategic Communication Master's is one of the few Portland-based graduate programs designed specifically for working communication professionals seeking leadership advancement. It combines strategic communication theory with applied leadership, finance, and campaign management, and gives students direct access to senior industry executives through the Strategic Communication Leadership Network — whose members include leaders from Microsoft, Nike, WE Communications, and Edelman Public Relations. Students have also won back-to-back national championships in the Arthur W. Page Society's top student case study competition.

Strategic Communication Master's FAQ | University of Oregon SOJC

Q: What is the Master's in Strategic Communication at the University of Oregon?

The Master's in Strategic Communication is a 48-credit, Portland-based graduate program from the University of Oregon's School of Journalism and Communication. It prepares experienced professionals to lead in corporate communication, public relations, marketing, crisis communication, digital strategy, and beyond — developing both the strategic thinking and practical skills to drive communication outcomes across industries.

Q: How much does the Strategic Communication Master's program cost?

Tuition for Oregon residents is estimated at $38,000 or more for the full program. Nonresidents and international students can expect to pay $50,000 or more. Because the program includes in-person classes in Portland, tuition varies by residency — unlike UO's fully online programs, which charge flat-rate tuition. Federal financial aid, the G.I. Bill, payment plans, employer tuition reimbursement, and merit-based scholarships may be available.

Q: What is the application deadline for the Strategic Communication Master's program?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with four deadlines: Early-Bird (November 15, includes a $500 tuition reduction if accepted), Round 2 (January 15), Round 3 (March 15), and Final Deadline (May 15). Applications submitted after the final deadline are considered on a case-by-case basis until August 1.

Q: What careers can I pursue with a Strategic Communication Master's degree?

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles across communication, marketing, and public affairs. Career paths include chief communication officer, chief marketing officer, public relations director, crisis communication manager, brand strategist, digital communication strategist, sustainability communication manager, and external affairs director. Recent alumni have held positions at Intel, Oracle, Spotify, NASA, and organizations including King County Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention and Spitfire Strategies.

The University of Oregon's Master's in Strategic Communication is a Portland-based graduate program from the nationally recognized School of Journalism and Communication, designed for experienced professionals ready to advance into communication leadership roles. The 15-month program builds expertise in corporate communication, public relations, crisis management, digital strategy, and AI-powered communication—with evening and weekend classes structured around full-time work schedules, no GRE required, and direct access to senior industry leaders through the Strategic Communication Leadership Network, whose members include executives from Microsoft, Nike, Edelman Public Relations, and other top companies.

About the Strategic Communication Master’s Program

What is the Strategic Communication Master’s?

The Master's in Strategic Communication is a 48-credit, Portland-based graduate program from the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication. It prepares experienced professionals to lead in corporate communication, public relations, marketing, crisis communication, digital strategy, immersive media, and beyond—developing both the strategic thinking and practical skills to drive communication outcomes across industries.

What makes the Strategic Communication Master’s program unique?

The Strategic Communication Master's stands out as one of the few Portland-based graduate programs designed specifically for working communication professionals. Unlike generalist programs, it combines rigorous strategic communication theory with applied leadership, finance, and campaign management, preparing graduates not just to do communication work, but to lead it at the organizational level. Courses are offered evenings and weekends, and the program's cohort model creates a tight-knit professional community.

Students also gain access to the Strategic Communication Leadership Network, an exclusive board of industry advisors that includes executives from Microsoft, Nike, WE Communications, Edelman Public Relations, and other top companies. The board members network with students, discuss the state of the industry with faculty and students, and help shape the curriculum.

What is strategic communication?

Strategic communication is the purposeful, planned use of communication to achieve organizational goals. It spans disciplines including public relations, marketing, corporate communication, crisis management, digital strategy, and internal communication. Strategic communicators align messages, channels, and audiences to drive behavior, build reputation, and create impact in businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, and beyond.

The Strategic Communication Master's teaches students to think and act as communication leaders, applying research, ethics, and creative problem-solving to real-world communication challenges.

What skills will I gain from the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

Graduates of the Strategic Communication Master's leave with advanced skills in:

Strategic communication planning and campaign management
Corporate communication and public relations
Digital strategy and social media communication
Leadership and organizational communication
Finance and budgeting for communication functions
Crisis communication and reputation management
Communication research methods
Sustainability and social impact communication
Ethical decision-making in digital communication environments
Using AI tools for strategic communication planning and content

How does the Strategic Communication Master’s program prepare students for careers in advertising, public relations, or marketing communications?

The program builds the strategic, analytical, and leadership skills that senior communication roles demand. Core courses in campaign planning, marketing, crisis communication, and finance give students a practical toolkit, while electives let them tailor their focus—whether that's brand building, digital strategy, sustainability communication, immersive media, or another area of communication. The capstone project gives students a substantial, portfolio-ready deliverable that demonstrates their capabilities to employers.

The Strategic Communication Leadership Network, which includes executives from companies like Microsoft, Nike, and Edelman Public Relations, also provides direct professional exposure and networking that supports career advancement.

What jobs and careers can I pursue with a Strategic Communication Master’s degree?

A Strategic Communication Master's degree opens doors to leadership roles across communication, marketing, and public affairs. Graduates can pursue careers in corporate communications, public relations, brand management, digital strategy, and beyond. Roles graduates may be qualified for include:

Chief communication officer
Chief marketing officer
Internal communication director
Crisis communication manager
External affairs director
Public relations director
Brand strategist
Digital communication strategist
Sustainability communication manager

Are there any specializations within the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

While there are no official concentrations within the degree, students can hone in on specializations through the electives they take and their capstone project. Students often concentrate their studies and projects on specializations such as digital strategy, corporate communication, public relations, strategic leadership, sustainability communication, crisis communication, immersive media strategy, and beyond.

Admissions for the Strategic Communication Master’s Program

How do I apply to the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

To apply, submit an online application through the University of Oregon Division of Graduate Studies portal. The application has two parts: the Graduate School form and the SOJC-specific graduate application. A nonrefundable fee is required: $70 for domestic applicants and $90 for international applicants. Consult our How to Apply page page for detailed instructions and the list of information and materials you will need for the application process.

Apply to the Strategic Communication Master’s Program

What is the application deadline for the Strategic Communication Master’s program fall cohort?

Applications for the fall cohort are accepted on a rolling basis until August 1, depending on space availability. Early submission is encouraged to secure your spot. There are four rounds of rolling application deadlines. (If the dates below fall on a weekend, the deadline will be moved to the nearest Friday.)

November 15—Early-Bird Deadline: Get a $500 tuition reduction if accepted.
January 15—Round 2 Deadline: Get an admission decision in time to apply for UO scholarships before the March 1 scholarship deadline.
March 15—Round 3 Deadline: Get an admission decision in time to apply for SOJC graduate student scholarships by the May 1 deadline.
May 15—Final Deadline: Guarantee review of your application for the fall cohort.

Applications submitted after the final deadline are considered on a case-by-case basis as space is available until July 31.

Are admissions rolling or cohort-based?

Admissions are cohort-based, but applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the cohort is full.

What materials are required to apply to the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

Before beginning your application to the Strategic Communication Master’s program, gather the following materials and information. See detailed instructions for how to apply.

Personal Info: contact details, education, experience, residency
Transcripts: Unofficial copies from all previously attended institutions are accepted with application; official transcripts are required upon admission.
Personal Statement: 750–1,000 words about your background, goals, and interest in the program
Resumé or CV
Portfolio or work samples: include three samples of your professional writing, communication campaigns, media planning, design, proposals, and/or other communication materials
2–4 Letters of Recommendation
TOEFL or IELTS Scores: Only for non-native English speakers

Back to Top

What should I include in my application to stand out?

Your personal statement should clearly articulate your professional experience, career goals, and how this program will help you achieve those goals. The admissions committee values applicants who demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing their career and contributing to the communications field. Be sure to highlight leadership roles, key achievements, and any relevant projects or initiatives you've led in your current or previous positions.

Is a GRE score required for admission to the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

No. The GRE is not required for admission to the Strategic Communication Master’s program.

Do I need a communication degree to apply to the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

No. Students from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds are welcome to apply. You simply need to demonstrate interest in strategic communication through your personal statement and portfolio.

When will I be notified about my admission decision?

You’ll typically receive a decision within 4–6 weeks of submitting your completed application. You can review the status of your application anytime through our online application system.

Who can I contact if I have questions during the application process?

For general questions and application guidance, contact the SOJC Graduate Admissions Team at:
sojcmasters@uoregon.edu | 541-346-3941

Program Format and Flexibility

How long does the Strategic Communication Master’s program take to complete?

The Strategic Communication Master’s program is typically completed in 15 months (six 10-week terms), but flexible pacing is available.

Do I have to attend classes during the day?

The program offers most courses evenings and weekends to accommodate working professionals. Our flexible course structure, including online and in-person options, allows students to balance their studies with other commitments.

Can I attend the Strategic Communication Master’s program part-time?

Yes. The program can be completed part-time, and our flexible course structure, including online and in-person options, is accessible for students who are balancing work and other commitments. While a full-time job is not a requirement for enrollment, work experience is expected and valued, as it enriches class discussions and enhances your ability to apply strategic communication concepts in real-world contexts.

Can I attend while working full-time?

Yes. Many students successfully complete the Strategic Communication Master's program while working full-time, thanks to its evening and weekend class schedule and flexible course formats.

Are Strategic Communication Master’s classes offered in-person, online, or in a hybrid format?

The program offers both online and in-person classes, with some hybrid options. In-person classes are available evenings and weekends on the SOJC Portland campus.

Can I start in any term, or is there only one cohort per year?

The program runs on a cohort model, with one new group starting each academic year, in the fall quarter¹. Students begin together and progress through core courses in a structured sequence.

¹ The University of Oregon operates on a quarter system, with three 10-week terms per year (fall, winter, spring), plus a 10-week summer session. Fall classes typically begin during the last week of September each year. Consult the UO Five-Year Academic Calendar for specific dates.

What is the cohort size for the Strategic Communication Master's program?

Each cohort comprises 15–20 students for a collaborative, tight-knit learning experience.

How flexible is the course load for working professionals?

Very flexible. The Strategic Communication Master's program is designed for working professionals, with evening and weekend classes, hyflex course options, and a course load structured to be manageable alongside full-time employment.

Strategic Communication Master’s Curriculum and Courses

For full descriptions of each course, visit our Strategic Communication Master’s Courses page.

What are the core areas of study for the Strategic Communication Master's program?

Core focuses for the Strategic Communication Master’s program include:

Media and communication practices
Digital ethics
Campaign management and planning
Marketing
Leadership
Finance and budgeting
Research
Crisis communication
AI tools for strategic communication

Does the Strategic Communication Master’s program teach AI tools for strategic communication?

Yes. AI tools for strategic communication planning and content creation are integrated throughout the Strategic Communication Master's curriculum. Students learn to apply AI strategically alongside core communication disciplines including campaign management, digital strategy, and crisis communication.

What are the required courses for the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

Strategic Communication Master’s students complete 48 credits, including the following required core courses:

JCOM 610 Communication Ethics in the Digital Age
JCOM 610 Research Methods
JCOM 611 Media and Society
JCOM 616 Intro to Strategic Communication Marketing
JCOM 618 Strategic Communication Management
JCOM 621 Foundations of Strategic Communication
JCOM 623 Creativity in Strategic Communication
JCOM 624 Finance for Strategic Communication
JCOM 624 Strategic Communication Topic: Crisis Communication
JCOM 624 Campaign Planning & Management

What is the capstone project for the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

The capstone project is a culminating experience where you apply your strategic communication expertise to a real-world challenge or applied research question. Unlike a thesis, a capstone contributes to the communication professions rather than scholarly literature. Topics are chosen with input from your faculty advisor and reviewed by a faculty committee. Many students use actual projects from their current jobs, which allows them to apply their learning directly to their real-world work. Past projects have included communication campaign plans, strategic communication audits, applied research reports, and professional guides. A written proposal must be approved by your committee before work begins.

Can I do an internship or create a portfolio instead of a capstone project?

Yes. Students can opt for a professional internship instead of a traditional capstone, or blend both, with program director approval.

Are there options for research-focused projects?

Yes. Students may complete a research-based thesis in lieu of a creative or industry-focused project, particularly with faculty mentorship. A thesis presents original research on a question about media and society, typically including a literature review, research method, and analysis. It is the right choice if you plan to pursue doctoral study or a career requiring scholarly research. Your advisor and committee supervise the process, and a written proposal must be approved before work begins.

What electives can I take in the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

Electives for the Strategic Communication Master’s program vary by term and year and can cover many topics, including:

Corporate social responsibility
Social media strategy
Brand building
Design
Writing
Communicating for social impact
Sustainability communication
Immersive media strategy
AI in communication

Can I specialize or choose electives that align with my specific career goals?

Yes. Through electives, the capstone project, and project-based learning, students can focus on specific interest areas such as digital strategy, sustainability communication, corporate reputation management, immersive media strategy, and more.

Can I take electives from other SOJC graduate programs?

Yes. Strategic Communication Master’s students may choose electives from the Immersive Media Communication, Multimedia Storytelling, or Advertising and Brand Responsibility master’s programs.

Are there any prerequisites for the core or elective courses?

Most electives do not require prerequisites.

Are internships or practical projects required for working professionals?

Internships are not required for students who are already working in the field, but there are options to engage in practical projects or applied research that can directly benefit your current role or organization.

Strategic Communication Master’s Degree Requirements

How many credits are required to graduate from the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

A total of 48 graduate credits (500- or 600-level) are required to complete the degree, including core, elective, and capstone/internship credits. Consult the Strategic Communication Master’s Degree Requirements page for full details.

What is the minimum GPA needed to graduate from the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

Students must maintain a 3.00 cumulative GPA at the University of Oregon to graduate.

How are electives selected and approved?

Students choose electives based on their interests and career goals, with guidance from the program director. Electives may include courses from other SOJC master's programs—Immersive Media Communication, Multimedia Storytelling, or Advertising and Brand Responsibility master’s programs—in addition to Strategic Communication Master’s electives.

What are the steps I need to complete before graduation?

Students in the Strategic Communication Master’s program will need to complete the following steps to graduate:

Make contact with the program director
Complete 48+ total credits of graduate coursework (500- or 600-level)
Complete all core courses
Complete at least 6 elective credits
Form a capstone committee
Submit a proposal and gain approval for a capstone project, an internship, a portfolio, or a thesis
Complete the final project and an oral defense
Apply for graduation in UO’s GradWeb system
Submit final materials to the SOJC Graduate Programs Office

How is the capstone committee formed?

Students select one faculty advisor (usually by spring of the first year), then choose a second reader. These two faculty members comprise the capstone committee.

What is the oral defense process for the capstone?

Students must complete a formal oral defense of their capstone project, thesis, or internship portfolio at least two weeks before the end of their final term. They will also present their work publicly.

Faculty and Advising

Who are the instructors in the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

The Strategic Communication Master’s faculty includes tenure-track faculty as well as instructors who are currently active in the communication field, including:

Dr. Donna Davis, program director and extended reality researcher
Dr. Jakki Bailey, assistant professor and virtual reality researcher
Dr. Daniel Pimentel, immersive media psychology assistant professor and researcher
Gudrun Granholm, thought leader in financial communication
Gail Baker, founder, principal, and strategist at Three Peaks Strategy

What are the qualifications of the Strategic Communication Master’s faculty?

Strategic Communication Master’s faculty are tenure-track faculty and industry professionals with backgrounds in strategic communication, public relations, marketing, digital strategy, corporate communication, sustainability communication, health communication, communication research, immersive media, immersive psychology, and other strategic communication fields.

Can I choose my own academic advisor?

Yes. You’ll start with the program director and later select a second advisor for your capstone project.

Will I have access to mentors and industry professionals?

Yes. Faculty are some of the top communication professionals in the Pacific Northwest, and the program regularly features guest speakers and project partners. The program’s Strategic Communication Leadership Network also brings together some of the top communication leaders in the world—executives from companies such as Microsoft, Nike, WE Communications, and Edelman Public Relations—to network with students, discuss the state of the industry, and guide our program’s offerings.

Are there networking opportunities?

Yes. Through faculty connections, guest speakers, the Strategic Communication Leadership Network, and project partnerships, students have regular contact with communication leaders across industries.

Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships for the Strategic Communication Master’s

How much does the Strategic Communication Master’s program cost?

Tuition for Oregon residents is estimated at $38,000+ for the full program. Nonresidents and international students can expect to pay $50,000+. Because the program is in-person in Portland, tuition varies by residency—unlike UO's fully online programs, which charge flat-rate tuition regardless of location.

Are payment plans or financial aid options available?

Yes. Students may qualify for federal financial aid and use the G.I. Bill. There are payment plans available through UO’s financial aid office. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement. Use the UO graduate costs calculator for estimates.

Are there scholarships available for Strategic Communication Master’s students?

The program offers a limited number of merit-based and need-based scholarships. Funding is limited and does not cover full tuition. We encourage you to explore external funding options, such as employer tuition reimbursement programs, in addition to applying for available scholarships. Check with the SOJC Graduate Admissions Team or UO’s financial aid office.

If I don’t complete the Strategic Communication Master's program in 15 months, will it cost more?

Yes. Tuition for our flexible master’s program is tied to the number of terms you complete and varies based on the pace you choose. For a customized estimate of tuition and other costs of graduate school, use the UO graduate costs calculator.

Career Outcomes for Strategic Communication Graduates

What kinds of careers do graduates of the Strategic Communication Master’s program pursue?

Graduates of the Strategic Communication Master's are prepared for leadership roles across communication, marketing, and public affairs. Many advance within their current organizations, earning promotions and expanded responsibilities, while others transition into new fields. Roles graduates pursue include:

Chief communication officer
Chief marketing officer
Internal communication director
Crisis communication manager
External affairs director
Public relations director
Brand strategist
Digital communication strategist
Sustainability communication manager

Read about some of our Strategic Communication Master’s alumni and what they are up to now.

Is there job placement support after graduation?

Students benefit from faculty mentorship, alumni connections, networking with the Strategic Communication Leadership Network, and internship opportunities. The program’s strong network in Portland and beyond supports career entry. Our graduate advisor also offers one-on-one career counseling.

What companies or organizations have hired Strategic Communication Master’s graduates?

Strategic Communication Master's alumni have landed communication and leadership roles at major organizations across industries. Recent graduates have gone on to positions at companies including Intel, Oracle, and Spotify, and alumni have held roles such as:

Communications director, King County Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention—Ariana Donaville ’20
Immersive communication intern, NASA—Luke Walker ’24
Director, Spitfire Strategies (nonprofit communications firm)—Natalia Orozco ’21
Nonprofit communications specialist, Central City Concern—Maeve Connor ’22
Copywriter and brand strategist—Olyvia Chac-Nguyen ’21
Communication specialist, outdoor and transportation sector—MJ Jackson ’21

Read about our Strategic Communication Master's alumni and what they are up to now.

What is the average salary for strategic communication professionals?

Salaries for strategic communication professionals vary by role, industry, and seniority. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, public relations managers earn a median of $138,520 annually, and marketing managers earn a median of $161,030, reflecting the senior leadership roles many Strategic Communication Master's graduates pursue. Both fields are projected to grow faster than average through 2034. For broader role data, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook is a reliable resource.

In what ways does a Strategic Communication Master’s degree support career advancement in leadership roles?

The Strategic Communication Master's program is explicitly designed for professionals who want to move into or advance in leadership. Core courses in strategic communication management, finance, and crisis communication build the organizational and executive-level skills that C-suite and director-level roles require. The program's cohort model also creates a professional peer network that supports career growth well beyond graduation. Access to the Strategic Communication Leadership Network—which includes executives from Microsoft, Nike, WE Communications, and Edelman Public Relations—further connects students to senior-level mentorship and industry exposure.

Is this program relevant for entrepreneurs or communication consultants?

Yes. The strategic thinking, campaign planning, and leadership skills developed in the program are directly applicable to independent consulting, agency work, and entrepreneurial communication ventures. Many graduates use the degree to launch or grow their own practices.

Location, Facilities, and Campus Resources

Where is the Strategic Communication Master’s program located?

The program is based at SOJC Portland at the University of Oregon’s Northeast Portland campus.

Is housing available nearby?

UO Portland offers some limited housing on campus for first-year students. Students also often find nearby apartments in Northeast Portland or surrounding areas.

Can I visit the UO Portland campus?

Yes, you can visit SOJC Portland, which is housed in the Innovation Building on the UO Portland campus at 2800 Liberty Street in Northeast Portland. In-person info sessions and tours are also available. Contact our SOJC Graduate Admissions Team at sojcmasters@uoregon.edu to make arrangements.

What is the Oregon Reality Lab (OR Lab), and how do I access it?

The Oregon Reality Lab (OR Lab) is a state-of-the-art immersive media lab at SOJC Portland that houses AR/VR/XR equipment. Students in the region can schedule time to use the lab for coursework and projects.

Do students get access to campus resources like libraries or advising?

Yes. Students have access to the UO Portland Library, UO's digital library, tech support, academic advising, and student services.

Strategic Communication Master’s Student Experience

How big is each Strategic Communication Master’s cohort?

Each cohort comprises 15–20 students, allowing for personalized attention and strong peer connections.

Will I be able to connect with other students in the program?

Yes. Strategic Communication Master’s courses include collaborative assignments, in-person classes, and discussion forums to foster connection.

Are there group projects or collaborative components?

Yes. Students often work in teams on communication campaigns, research projects, and strategy assignments, mimicking real-world collaboration.

What does a typical week of coursework look like in the Strategic Communication Master's program?

Most Strategic Communication Master's classes are held in the evenings and on weekends, with online and hybrid options available. A typical week might include one or two evening class sessions—covering topics like campaign strategy, leadership, or communication ethics—alongside independent project work, readings, and collaboration with cohort peers.

How are Strategic Communication Master's students evaluated (assignments, projects, participation)?

Evaluation is based on written assignments, communication projects, discussions, and capstone project work, depending on the course.

Are there opportunities to network with professionals?

Yes. Through faculty connections, the Strategic Communication Leadership Network, guest speakers, and project partnerships, students have regular contact with communication, PR, and marketing leaders.

Is mentorship available throughout the Strategic Communication Master's program?

Yes. Students receive ongoing mentorship from faculty advisors, the program director, and professional contacts through the Strategic Communication Leadership Network.

Can I use the Strategic Communication Master's program to build a portfolio?

Yes. Students work on hands-on projects throughout the program, creating communication strategies, campaigns, and capstone projects that strengthen their professional portfolios.

Recognition and Student Work

What kind of projects have past Strategic Communication Master’s students completed?

Strategic Communication Master's students tackle challenging capstone projects for real clients and employers, covering a wide range of communication disciplines. Past projects include:

A communication plan for immersive experiences designed to improve LGBTQIA+ access to emerging technology, developed by Collin Pullum in partnership with community stakeholders
A strategic communication blueprint for an architectural firm's growth goals, created by Meredith Floyd-Preston for a real client
A VR-based campaign exploring the intersection of environmental crisis, empathy, and nonprofit giving, developed by Jake Savelich
HERstory, a communication strategy to help women report sexual harassment in Cambodia developed by Sopheakpanha Sok

Are there opportunities to participate in national or international conferences or competitions?

Yes. Strategic Communication Master's students and alumni are encouraged to engage with the broader communication field through professional organizations, industry conferences, and competitive awards programs, and students have a strong track record in national competitions and industry engagement. Highlights include:

Two consecutive wins of the Arthur W. Page Society's top prize for student case studies—first for a case study on Dick's Sporting Goods' decision to halt gun sales, then for a case study on Delta Airlines' strict mask mandate—making Strategic Communication Master’s students back-to-back national champions in one of the communication field's most prestigious competitions
Student-produced work recognized through Snap AR's Lens Studio program, including an AR storytelling experience created to promote the nonprofit Hope for Haiti
Third place in Lenslist’s Spectacles Challenge and a Webby Awards Honorable Mention for the Snap AR Scholars project Otter Rock: Beneath the Surface

Students also benefit from connections to the Strategic Communication Leadership Network, whose executive members network with our students twice annually and connect students with the broader communication profession. At UO Portland, we have also hosted industry conferences such as the PRSA Oregon's Communicators Conference. Talk with the program director to learn about current competition and conference opportunities aligned with your career goals.

How is student work recognized or showcased publicly?

Student work is shared via SOJC news and social media, in OregonNews, in public presentations and student showcases, and through participation in industry conferences and professional communication competitions.

Where can I see examples of past capstone projects or student portfolios?

The program director can share past capstone projects, and some are highlighted in SOJC newsletters, social media, and web stories.

International Students

Are there additional application requirements for international students?

If English is not your native/primary language, you will need to prove proficiency through one of the methods below. Test scores must be less than two years old.

TOEFL Score: a minimum score of 600 (paper test) or 100 (online test).
IELTS Score: a minimum Academic score of at least 7.0 overall band.
DET Score: a minimum score of 120.
Degree from English-Speaking Country: Submit degree transcripts proving you have received a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or from an institution in Australia, Canada (excluding Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom.

After admission, international students planning to study at UO on an F-1 or J-1 visa must provide proof of financial support showing the ability to cover at least one year of tuition, fees, and living expenses. Learn more about the requirements for international students.

Are there funding and scholarship opportunities for international students?

Yes, international students are eligible for scholarships, but funding is limited and does not cover the full cost of tuition. Contact the UO Financial Aid Office for more details.

Are internship opportunities available to international students?

Yes, internship opportunities are available to international students, although visa regulations may impose some restrictions. Contact the SOJC Graduate Affairs office or your advisor for specific guidance.

Can international students enroll in more classes if they cannot work full-time due to visa restrictions?

Yes, international students can enroll in additional classes if they are unable to hold full-time employment due to visa limitations. Consult with the program director or your academic advisor to determine the best course load.

Additional Questions About the Strategic Communication Master's Program

Where can I find more detailed information about the Strategic Communication Master’s program?

You can find specifics on requirements, policies, and guidelines in the Graduate Student Handbook. Additionally, visit our Strategic Communication Master’s landing page to learn more about classes and student experiences.

How does the Strategic Communication Master's program differ from other communication master's degrees?

The Strategic Communication Master's is one of the few graduate programs in the Pacific Northwest designed specifically for midcareer communication professionals seeking leadership advancement. Its combination of strategic communication theory, applied finance and budgeting, and direct access to senior industry leaders through the Strategic Communication Leadership Network makes it distinctive among communication master's programs.

What if I need to take a break or defer my admission?

Students should contact the program director to discuss deferral or leave options, which may be granted on a case-by-case basis.

Are there alumni I can talk to about the Strategic Communication Master's program?

Yes. You can reach out to the graduate recruiter and advisor at sojcmasters@uoregon.edu to request to be connected with alumni.

Will I receive a certificate or transcript after graduation?

Graduates receive a master’s degree transcript from the University of Oregon and may request official documents for employment or further study.

Who should I contact with general program questions?

For any questions, contact the SOJC Graduate Admissions Team at sojcmasters@uoregon.edu.

STC Program Overview

Request Additional Info

Attend an Info Session

Journalism and Communication Menu

Strategic Communication Master's Program Frequently Asked Questions

Table of Contents

About the Program →

Admissions →

Program Format and Flexibility →

Curriculum and Courses →

Degree Requirements →

Faculty and Advising →

Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships →

Career Outcomes →

Location, Facilities, and Campus Resources →

Student Experience →

Recognition and Student Work →

International Students →

Additional Questions →