Global Studies BA / Communication MS

Major: Global Studies and Communication
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Art (BA) and Master of Science (MS)
Calendar Type: Quarter
Total Credit Hours: 225.0
Co-op Options: One Co-op (Five years)
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 30.2001
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 19-3094

About the Program

The accelerated BA in Global Studies provides students with an interdisciplinary, intercultural, and interactive program with four concentrations: media, arts and cultures; justice and human rights; business, economics, and development; and health and sustainability. Global Studies students develop the critical skills to understand global political, social, and economic trends, while the MS addition will further deepen students’ practical and professional experience in the communications field.

Drexel University is committed to building a strong foundation through the accelerated Global Studies/Communication degree, 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 a master’s degree in Communication, using the year saved to gain full-time experience and earn a salary in the field.

Drexel’s Master of Science in Communication program 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 graduate credits. 

Admission Requirements

Both incoming freshman and current GST students are eligible to apply for this program. Students who are already matriculated 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.

Degree Requirements

Sample Plan of Study