<h2 id="section---FrequentlyAskedQuestions">Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <h3 id="section---WhatKindOfProgramIsIt">What Kind of Program Is It?</h3> <p>The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication at California Baptist University is designed to train communications professionals to take on leadership roles. Students in the program have the opportunity to learn communication strategies for a variety of industries such as public relations, media, and non-profits. The curriculum covers topics including communication, theory, ethics, digital effects on communication, and social influence, for a comprehensive look at the industry's evolving landscape. Students will have the opportunity to work on applied communications research as well as a capstone project that demonstrates any abilities and knowledge gained. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreThePrerequisites">What Are the Prerequisites?</h3> <p>To apply to the program, students should have a bachelor's degree, official transcripts, and a minimum 2.75 GPA; strong writing, social media, and interpersonal skills may also be beneficial. All applicants to California Baptist University must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may have additional requirements. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreTheCourseRequirements">What Are the Course Requirements?</h3> <p>The curriculum explores theory, research, and practical applications in the communications field. 30 credits of core courses are required for graduation. </p> <p><u>Core Required Courses</u> </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><th>Course Code</th><th>Course Title</th></tr> <tr><td>COM 505</td><td>Advanced Communication Theory</td></tr> <tr><td>COM 510</td><td>Communication Research and Evaluation</td></tr> <tr><td>COM 520</td><td>Communication Management, Leadership, and Decision-Making</td></tr> <tr><td>COM 525</td><td>Media Effects on Communication Behavior</td></tr> <tr><td>COM 540</td><td>Strategic Communication Programming and Campaigns</td></tr> <tr><td>COM 555</td><td>Digital Trends in Strategic Communication</td></tr> <tr><td>COM 560</td><td>Communication Ethics</td></tr> <tr><td>COM 580</td><td>Social Influence and Persuasion</td></tr> <tr><td>COM 595</td><td>Applied Communication Research</td></tr> <tr><td>COM 599</td><td>Communication Capstone Project</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhatCouldIDoAfterIGraduate">What Could I Do After I Graduate?</h3> <h4 id="section---CareerOpportunities">Career Opportunities</h4> <p>Graduates of the MA in Strategic Communication could pursue job positions in a variety of industries as specialists, directors, or managers. They could consult for businesses, direct teams of professionals, or lead departments. The program is designed to equip students with skills in communicating with a purpose, social media, and leadership, which could translate to careers in business, marketing, media, and government. </p> <ul><li>Public relations consultant </li><li>Public relations manager </li><li>Strategic communication officer </li><li>Marketing and communications executive </li><li>Market research analyst </li></ul><h4 id="section---AdvancedDegrees">Advanced Degrees</h4> <p>Graduates could also pursue a doctoral degree in communications or a similar field. A doctoral degree could help graduates advance their skills, which could lead to more job opportunities, either in their current industries or new ones altogether. Doctoral degrees could lead to more leadership positions, as well as research and academia. </p> <ul><li>Ph.D. in Public Relations </li><li>Ph.D. in Marketing </li><li>Ph.D. in Advertising</li></ul>