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Explore Northwestern's Master of Science in Communication

Strengthen your leadership, build a personal brand, and communicate effectively.

What is a Master of Science in Communication?

Your first assignment? Define ‘Communication’.​

A Master of Science in Communication from Northwestern University is many things; an accelerated master degree program, a path to the C-Suite, and a way to define and master the words we use and stories we tell.

Through this transformative experience you will be prepared for success in any industry, any job function, any place in the world.

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Discover how the Master of Science in Communication from Northwestern transformed CEO Diana Hernandez’s organization.

Choose The Best Path To Your Master of Science in Communication​

Explore the two paths to your Northwestern MSC degree, each customized to your busy schedule and experience level.

Custom Leadership Program

The Custom Leadership Program (CLP) offers a unique in-person experience for every student, regardless of where you are in your career.

  • Schedule: Students attend a mix of weekday and weekend courses. Select 1-2 concentrations. Courses last for 10 weeks each.
  • Visa Eligibility: Eligible for visa sponsorship. International students should apply early to allow for more time processing visas. 
  • Concentrations Available: Strategic Communication or Organizational Leadership

Online Leadership Program

The Online Leadership Program (OLP) offers a fully virtual program to balance career, life, and academic priorities:

  • Schedule: Students enroll in a total of 8 courses and 3 virtual practicums. Asynchronous online courses last for 5 weeks each.
  • Visa Eligibility: International students are welcome to study from abroad, however, OLP is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
  • Live Virtuals: Three (3) live virtual practicums focused on key components of Strategic Communication of Organizational Leadership

A Life Changing Master's Program​

“I knew the fundamentals would not only help me in my job today but also in the rest of my career – no matter where I went.”

Lauren Pedi ’19

Senior Major Gifts Officer
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

Meet the MSC Program Faculty​

Learn From Your Industry's Leaders​

Learn from leading academics and industry experts who are experienced leaders in business, government, and non-profit foundations.

The MSC Program’s professors choose to teach these classes — it’s not in their regular tenure load. Your instructors teach because they believe in the importance of this program and want to connect with you.

Meet Our MSC Program Faculty >>

Northwestern's Master of Science in Communication Admissions Information

Explore program requirements and application details before applying.​

MSC Degree Requirements

Find out what you need to submit an application to the MSC program.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Learn more about the MSC program tuition and financial aid. 

How to Apply

Begin your online application, save your progress, and return to complete at any time.

Earn Your Master of Science in Communication​

Transform Yourself. Transform the World.