Mass Communication (M.M.C.)

Student Learning Outcomes

• Apply the principles and laws of freedom of speech and press, in a global context, and for the country in which the institution that invites ACEJMC is located;
• Demonstrate an understanding of the multicultural history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications;
• Demonstrate culturally proficient communication that empowers those traditionally disenfranchised in society, especially as grounded in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and ability, domestically and globally, across communication and media contexts;
• Present images and information effectively and creatively, using appropriate tools and technologies;
• Write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences and purposes they serve;
• Demonstrate an understanding of professional ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness and diversity;
• Apply critical thinking skills in conducting research and evaluating information by methods appropriate to the communications professions in which they work;
• Effectively and correctly apply basic numerical and statistical concepts;
• Critically evaluate their own work and that of others for accuracy and fairness, clarity, appropriate style and grammatical correctness;
• Apply tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work;
• Contribute to knowledge appropriate to the communications professions in which they work.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Core Requirements

At least 50% of coursework on the plan of study must be skills-based coursework. Skills-based courses are designated below.

• MCOM 705 - Introduction to Master of Mass Communication Credits: 3
• MCOM 710 - Cross-Platform Storytelling Credits: 3 (skills-based)
• MCOM 730 - Media Law Case Studies Credits: 3 (skills-based)
• MCOM 746 - Cross-Platform Campaigns Credits: 3 (skills-based)
• MCOM 786 - Conducting Professional Research Credits: 3 (skills-based)
• MCOM 788 - Research Problems/Projects (COM) Credits: 1-6 (3 credits required)
• Electives Credits: 12

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: 100 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 10.5
IELTS: 7.0
Duolingo: 120

GPA: 3.0 undergraduate GPA

Preferred qualifications:

• Professional experience and/or previous coursework in fields such as mass communication, journalism, advertising, marketing, public relations and business.
• Rolling Admissions Deadline
  • Students will only be considered for Fall admission.
  • All applications receive a timely, comprehensive review by the graduate committee.
• Application materials
  • Professional resume
  • Personal statement (max: 2 pages) that addresses
    • Preparation for success in an independent, online graduate program.
    • How professional experience and/or previous coursework prepares you for this program.
    • How this degree will advance your professional goals.
  • Official transcripts
    • Note: If the coursework was completed at a South Dakota Board of Regents (SDBOR) institution, we have access to your transcript, and you do not need to take any action.
  • $35 application fee
• International Applicants may only receive unconditional admission. To receive unconditional admission, international applicants must meet these requirements:
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • A professional academic transcript evaluation for degrees earned outside the United States. (This requirement cannot be waived unless your highest degree was earned or will be earned in the U.S. prior to enrollment at SDSU).
  • If you are completing your bachelor’s degree at the time of application, you may submit an incomplete evaluation. If you are accepted, a complete transcript and/or evaluation with completed degree will be required by the end of your first semester of coursework.
  • Official U.S. transcripts where a degree is earned (or will be earned), and official U.S. transcripts where graduate level coursework has been taken.
  • The School of COJO requires higher English proficiency scores than the minimums set by the SDSU Graduate School. International applicants must achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 100 Internet-based, TOEFL Essentials score of 10.5, or an IELTS score of 7.0.

Accelerated Master’s Program

The accelerated master’s program will be available to eligible SDSU students. Up to twelve (12) graduate level credits may apply to the undergraduate degree as major requirements or electives with approval from the student’s academic advisor, department head/school director, and college dean. Students must follow SDSU Policy 2:22 Use of Graduate Credit for Undergraduate Degree Requirements.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework. For additional information, refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .