Master of Science in Communication for Development and Social Change
Gain the skills to effectively utilize digital and traditional communications to promote pro-social change in the 21st century with the Master of Science in Communication for Development and Social Change in the Lew Klein College of Media and Communication at Temple University. This 30-credit interdisciplinary master’s program is designed to prepare students to address current issues through social and behavioral change in a variety of spaces—from local communities to government spaces to civil society organizations. In the program, you will acquire an in-depth understanding of the different methodologies needed to communicate problems and facilitate change within communities all over the world, including
- exploring strategic communication and project management theories;
- researching development communication issues;
- leveraging dynamic dialogue methods and media technologies;
- designing and implementing various campaigns; and
- evaluating projects and measuring their effectiveness.
Students in the Communication for Development and Social Change program have the opportunity to design their curriculum based on their individual interests and career goals. Areas of specialization in the program include, but are not limited to
- community development;
- conflict, peace and human rights;
- media development and advocacy;
- policy, planning and governance;
- public health; and
- sustainability and the environment.
What sets apart our Master of Science in Communication for Development and Social Change?
- An interdisciplinary, customizable curriculum: The interdisciplinary nature of the program allows students to learn from diverse faculty from across the college, exposing them to various perspectives and giving them access to an array of companies, organizations and professionals to get them started in a career in their chosen field.
- A flexible program for professionals: Our program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. While most students are full time and aim to complete the program in one year, working professionals have the option to space out their courses by enrolling part time.
- A unique learning opportunity: Temple’s Communication for Development and Social Change program is one of only two of its kind in the country and it is the only one dedicated to upskilling in applied communication for social change. With our program, you gain a unique education at a leading research institution—giving students specialized knowledge and an invaluable experience.
Classes & Curriculum
Classes for the Master of Science in Communication for Development and Social Change are held on Main Campus. Although designed for full-time students to complete in one year, part-time students can take up to four years to complete.
The 30-credit program includes 18 credits of required core coursework, nine credits in a specialization and three credits of capstone field experience. Some of the major courses include
- Communication for Social Change Project Design;
- Research Approaches in Communication and Social Change; and
- Seminar in Media, Communication and Development.
Learn more about program requirements.