English BA / Communication MS

Major: English and Communication
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Master of Science (MS)
Calendar Type: Quarter
Total Credit Hours: 226.0 - 228.0
Co-op Options: One Co-op (Five years); Two Co-op (Five years)
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 09.0199
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 11-2011

About the Program

The ability to communicate effectively is one of the most sought-after skills by prospective employers industry wide. Drexel University is committed to building this strong foundation through the Accelerated Degree option, which enables academically qualified students to earn both a bachelor's and master’s degree — graduating sooner than they would in traditional programs. Graduates of the accelerated degree enter the workforce one year sooner with the benefits of both a bachelor's degree in English and a master’s degree in communication, using the year saved to gain full-time experience and earn a salary in the field.

The BA in English  focuses on three areas:

• A rich Academic Core grounded in disciplinary expertise that promotes literary exploration, sophisticated textual literacy, excellent writing, and other transferable skills;
• Applied Learning opportunities using skills in research, interpretation, analysis, and writing to solve real-world problems;
• Opportunities for Civic Engagement, connecting with community partners to promote social justice and the common good.

Drexel’s MS in Communication program requires 45.0 graduate credits, and prepares students for careers in a wide range of professional activities. The program specializes in three areas:

• public communication
• technical communication
• science and health communication

Public Communication

Public Communication has much to offer those looking to work in journalism, public relations, and nonprofit organizations. Students can choose from courses such as Strategic Social Media Communication, Event Planning, Journalism and News Writing, Public Relations Writing and Campaign Planning, and Nonprofit Communication.

Technical Communication

Technical Communication provides skills in technical writing, editing, and computer documentation, and trains students for careers in a wide range of industries from social networking to publishing to health insurance. Students choose from courses such as Technical Writing, Digital Publishing, Technical & Science Editing, and Technical Documentation & Software.

Science and Health Communication

Science and Health Communication leads to careers in medical, science, and pharmaceutical communication. Students can choose from courses such as Science Writing, Medical Journalism, Campaigns in Health & Environment, and Communicating Health and Risk in a 'Fake News' World. 

In addition, the program provides a strong foundation in ethics and theoretical approaches to communication. This theoretical basis is designed to ensure that, as the field changes, students will continue to have an intellectual framework for evaluating and implementing new technology and changing media.

The program emphasizes flexibility, encouraging each student, in consultation with an academic advisor, to craft a particular course of study. Throughout the curriculum, students may use electives to increase communication skills or to further develop areas of specialization. The Master's degree requires a total of 45.0 graduate credits. 

For additional information, visit the MS in Communication web page. Contact Julia May, Director of the MS in Communication Program at julia.may@drexel.edu for more information.

Admission Requirements

Already matriculated English majors may apply after completing a minimum of 90.0 credits but no more than 120.0 credits. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and maintain this GPA throughout the program.

In addition to formally applying and getting all the signatures required on the Accelerated Degree Program Admission form, applicants must provide:

• A 500-word statement of goals that explains why they want to enroll in the accelerated degree program.
• The name of a faculty reference who can speak to the applicant’s academic qualifications and preparedness for graduate studies.

For more information contact Dr. Julia May, Director of the MS in Communication Program at julia.may@drexel.edu. 

Degree Requirements

Sample Plan of Study

4 Year, 1 Co-Op

5 Year, 3 Co-Op