Learn more about the Strategic Communication Master's Application Process
Tuition
Tuition* for the degree programs in the MSU Strategic Communication Online M.A. are as follows for the 2025-26 academic year:
Tuition: $27,600 [$920 per credit hour x 30 credits]
Graduate Certificates
- Tuition: $8,280 [$920 per credit hour x nine credits]
Tuition rates listed above DO NOT include the application fee, course-related fees or any additional fees that may be required by MSU. Student fees may vary.
*Subject to change in subsequent academic years. For a detailed breakdown and the most up-to-date tuition and fees information visit the MSU Controller webpage.
Financial Aid
Funding your graduate journey looks a little different than undergrad—but you're not in it alone. MSU’s Office of Financial Aid has dedicated advisors ready to help graduate and professional students navigate their options. Explore grants, loans, and resources tailored just for you on the MSU Graduate and Professional Students' webpage—and take the next step toward making your degree a reality.
Part-time vs. full-time student status
Part-time is 5-6 credits per semester. Full-time is 9 credits per semester. Students using financial aid should confirm their enrollment status requirements for their package as a specific number of credits may be required.
Sample academic plans
Students can choose a one-, two- or three-year timeline to complete their MSU StratCom degree. See examples of one-, two- and three-year plans through this link.
Course time commitment
The majority of StratCom students take two courses each semester and report they spend between 10 to 20 hours on coursework per week.
Course offerings
Course descriptions and the semester courses are offered can be found at by visiting Strategic Communication M.A. Course Listing. Please note that All MSU StratCom courses are for MSU StratCom M.A. or certificate students only.
Transfer credits
MSU StratCom may accept up to 9 transfer credits of graduate course work (excluding research and thesis credits) if they are appropriate to MSU StratCom and provided they were completed within the time limits approved for the earning of the degree desired at MSU.
MSU StratCom's director must grant approval of the transfer credits. Only courses in which at least a 3.0 grade or its equivalent was received will be considered for transfer. Learn more about transfer credits at MSU.
Academic support and mentorship
From day one, each StratCom student partners with their dedicated advisor to build a personalized academic plan. Your advisor not only helps you map your course schedule—they also provide ongoing guidance and support throughout your journey.
Books and materials costs per course
Each course is different in what it requires. Students say it can cost anywhere from $30 to $100+ to purchase books, materials, and resources for each course.
Program software and hardware requirements
As an asynchronous, online program, access to a working computer and the internet are basic requirements for MSU StratCom courses. There may be additional software requirements for specific courses.
Class size
At MSU StratCom, you're never just a number. Our courses typically enroll 25–30 students per semester, allowing for meaningful interaction, personalized feedback, and a strong sense of community—even in an online environment.
