Master’s in Strategic Communication
Strategy. Analysis. Leadership
If you are interested in growing professionally and intellectually as a strategic communication professional, the graduate program may be for you.
The mission of the Master’s in Strategic Communication program is to prepare responsible and professional thought leaders—through theories and skills in strategy, research, storytelling, new media, and leadership—for success in today’s competitive digital and global communication environments.
Learn, Work and Network.
Join leading professors on a thriving campus located in the 5th largest media market in the country.
Advance your Professional Goals.
Our graduates are hired into positions in advertising, public relations, digital media, corporate communication, non-profit communication, public communication, sports communication, and other positions that benefit from the expertise strategic communication students develop. Read about MS ’12 alumnus Nick Olivier’s experiences.
Gain Opportunities and Experience.
With TCU’s location in one of the largest media markets in the country, Strategic Communication students gain valuable experience from collaboration with brands, agencies, and non-profits in simulated and real-world, client-based communication projects, and through internships, networking, and job opportunities.
Financial Awards
We do not want the cost of a graduate education to prohibit you from pursuing your goals. We are able to support the goals of many of our students through merit-based tuition waivers that cover all or part of a student’s tuition and Graduate Teaching Assistantships that provide a monthly stipend to help with other expenses. These assistantships also provide students with the opportunity to work closely with faculty in ways that advance their understanding of the discipline.
Meet some of our Strategic Communication graduate students
Amber Bilops
Amber Bilops
Undergraduate Education: Integrated Studies from University of North Texas
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
It is my dream school
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I’m wanting a career in communication, preferably with the NFLPA.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
How to become a better writer.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I intern with Dallas Sports Commission as social media and marketing intern.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
Get fully into my career, possibly with the NFL.
Jade Currid
Jade Currid
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications with a Concentration in Journalism from Auburn University in Alabama
Hometown: Montgomery, Alabama
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
As a full-time employee at Texas Christian University, I have witnessed firsthand several admirable characteristics that permeate campus including high standards of academic excellence, a strong collective spirit and sense of community, the extra mile that faculty routinely go to ensure students’ academic and career success, and the overall pride and enthusiasm of being a TCU Horned Frog.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I chose Strategic Communication because it sharpens imperative critical thinking, strategy, research, storytelling, new media and leadership skills to succeed in today’s competitive digital and global communication environments. This program is an excellent fit to build upon the professional skillset I have. A Master’s of Science degree in Strategic Communication enables professionals to flourish in journalism, public relations, marketing and digital media careers, as well as opens up countless other career options.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am interested in strengthening my critical thinking, writing, storytelling and digital media abilities.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I work full-time as an Academic Program Specialist in the TCU Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice. As a freelance writer, I author the Ranch and Performance Horse column for Working Ranch Magazine. I had the honor of writing the cover story on nine-time world champion cowboy and PBR cofounder Ty Murray and his horsemanship philosophies and promotion of better horsemanship for the March 2022 edition of Western Horseman Magazine. I am a freelance photographer as well. As a runner, I appreciate the dynamic running community in the DFW area.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to reach my full potential and positively impact my working environment and community through the skills and knowledge I have gained.
Connor Damron
Connor Damron
Undergraduate Education: Political Science from University of Florida
Hometown: Crystal River, Florida
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
Texas Christian University provides a vast amount of educational opportunity mixed with the opportunity to learn and grow outside of the classroom being situated In the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
The Masters program in Strategic Communication will allow me to gain versatile skills that I can use to further my career.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
Communications in the Sports and Business world.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of Class I like to play golf, watch sports and meet friends.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
My hope is to work in Sports or for a start up company
Ben Doyka
Ben Doyka
Undergraduate Education: Communication and Journalism, Electronic Media Emphasis from Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania
Hometown: Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
From an early age, obtaining a degree of any level from TCU has been a dream of mine. The opportunities the university presents its students combined with the level of academic prestige it carries made it an easy decision for me. I want to be challenged in the classroom, learn from my peers, and get direction from faculty that desire to see their students succeed, which is why I chose TCU.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
My undergraduate degree focused heavily on electronic media and distribution of media. I love to write, and I wanted to increase the caliber of my writing as a professional. The Strategic Communication program allows me to use what I know well while giving me the opportunity to grow in the areas I want to improve on.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
Becoming a strong leader and learning what that looks like in a multitude of roles is interesting to me. I want to learn more about effective research and how to use proven methods to increase the quality of my work. Along with that, I want to get hands-on experience in and out of the classroom to strengthen my knowledge and skill set for my future career.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I am a TA within the department under Duke Greenhill, so I spend time in the classroom learning from him as he teaches his courses. I work with the athletic department on video projects, game day operations, and social media. I love to attend any TCU game I can and keep track of stats and write game recaps as practice for my potential career in Sports Information Directing. If I’m not in class or at a game, my dog, Drew, and I are more than likely on a trail somewhere.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I want to be involved in sports communication. As a former boarding school kid, I would love to be an Athletic Director for a boarding school. If not that, I would love to take on a role in a college athletics department as a Sports Information Director. I think being well-rounded as an avid sports fan and as a strategic communication student will bring all the skills together to be successful in the competitive athletics world.
Breahn Fisher
Breahn Fisher
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Strategic Communication Management at Texas Tech University in Lubbock
Hometown: Plano, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I decided to get my Master’s at Texas Christian University because of its excellent reputation and top rankings for my program. I also fell in love with the beauty of the campus and love the sense of community.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I chose to further my education in Strategic Communication because it combines many of my passions and interests. These include public relations, social media, advertising, and creative media.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am specifically interested in learning how to help businesses communicate to their audiences through digital marketing and social media. I am excited to gain a greater understanding of the strategic thought and planning that is the basis for online communications.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I am a Teaching Assistant for Dr. Ma, helping with attendance and grading. I also work as a Digital Presence Intern for ReachLocal where I assist with SEO and Social Media Marketing for clients of the USA Today Network. Outside of class, I enjoy dancing, caring for animals, exploring Fort Worth, and finding creative projects.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to become a part of a strategic and creative PR/communications team, either working in-house for a business or at a PR/Marketing agency.
Christopher Fritz
Christopher Fritz
Undergraduate Education: Sport Management from Texas A&M University in College Station
Hometown: Sankt Augustin, Germany
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I worked as an intern for TCU Athletics while finishing my undergraduate degree. When I received the chance to continue my journey with the athletics department as a graduate assistant, I did not want to pass up on the opportunity to earn a graduate degree from this great university.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
After doing research on different graduate programs I knew that Strategic Communication would be the best fit
for me to build upon the knowledge I have gained from my undergraduate degree and set me up for success
upon graduation by learning more about advertising, public relations, and different contexts of communication.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
Communication in sports and public relations.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I work as a graduate assistant in the Facilities and Game Day Operations department for TCU Athletics, where I assist with day-to-day operations of athletic facilities as well as game day operations for a variety of sports. Outside of class and work I enjoy watching sports, meeting friends, and generally spending time outdoors.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
My hope is to work in the sports industry, either in events, public relations, or a similar field.
Leah Griffin
Leah Griffin
Undergraduate Education: Sociology from Texas Christian University
Hometown: Aledo, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I am one of the very lucky to call TCU my alma mater and employer!
Why did you choose strategic communication?
Many students I work with are strategic communication students. To better serve my students and my college strategic communication was an easy choice.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am excited to build research skills and hopefully find an area or field that needs advancement and hopefully contribute to that body of work.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I am a “boy mom” to two awesome kiddos! My husband and I celebrated 18 years together in 2022. We enjoy chauffeuring our boys to baseball practices and games. I love to play tennis and enjoy gardening.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I will continue my career at TCU and look forward to the opportunities a master’s degree provides.
Kylie Gruender
Kylie Gruender
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Arkansas
Hometown: North Richland Hills, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I chose TCU because I loved the program and the opportunity to work hands on for real clients during my studies. Once I saw the campus and the surrounding area of Fort Worth, it was a no brainer!
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I chose Strategic Communication because I wanted a more focused path than my undergraduate degree and it suited many of my personal interests like social media management and advertising.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am very interested in researching topics such as social media statistics, public relations, new media, marketing, and more.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I am currently working as a Teaching Assistant for the Strategic Communication Department here at TCU, but recently completed a full-time internship with Centene Corporation as a Corporate Communications Intern. During my time as an undergraduate, I interned for Barstool Sports and was a Social Media Manager for The University of Arkansas. During my free time I like to spend time with friends, workout, and try new restaurants or activities in DFW.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I would love to work within the communication department of a company potentially in the beauty or lifestyle industry.
Jordan Guilmart
Jordan Guilmart
Undergraduate Education: Strategic Communication from Texas Christian University
Hometown: Litchfield, Connecticut
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I originally came to TCU as an athlete for undergrad. Over the years it quickly became home to me, and I knew that when I started to plan my future after undergrad I had to try and stay.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
In undergrad, I studied strategic communication and enjoyed learning about the marketing and public relations fields. I wanted to study them further, so continuing into the strategic communication master’s program was the right choice.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I’m excited to learn more about communication on a global scale. I am eager to understand both the broad picture and the more intricate details and impacts the industry has on the global climate.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I am a graduate assistant for the Office of Sponsorship and an intern for the Athletics Communication department. I’ve been riding horses since I was young and love to spend time with family and friends.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduating I hope to pursue a job in marketing or event planning.
Detavious Hill
Detavious Hill
Undergraduate Education: Public Relations at University of North Texas in Denton
Hometown: Saginaw, Michigan
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I chose Texas Christian University because I wanted to further my education at an institution that brings value not only to its students’ successes but also to the community as a whole.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I knew I wanted to study strategic communication because I have very ambitious goals that I wish to achieve and by earning this second degree, it will better equip me for the future to come.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I would love to learn more about how to lead campaigns effectively and successfully from political to marketing efforts. I’d also like to explore the power of persuasion in marketing/PR efforts on niche audiences specifically, the LGBTQ+ community, swindling them to buy a product.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of this program I am a teaching assistant as well as guest educator for a neighboring school district. My hobbies include reading when I can, dancing and occasionally video games!
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to officially launch my PR career working all over with nonprofits, politicians and maybe even entertainers. Then, eventually transition to teaching on either the undergraduate or secondary level.
María Belén Navarro Castillo
María Belén Navarro Castillo
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio
Hometown: Managua, Nicaragua
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
Besides having an excellent Strategic Communication Master’s program, Texas Christian University offers personalized education that allows students to learn while being involved and supported personally and professionally. Texas Christian University deeply cares about its students and provides countless resources that helps us feel like at home.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
During my past work experiences, I always had a curiosity for strategy and understanding the consumer. Strategic Communication will allow me to expand my research and analytical skills to further understand audiences and develop strategic recommendations for organizations.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am deeply passionate about supporting causes that help the growth of communities. I am interested in researching and learning about corporate social responsibility and about nonprofit fundraising and development.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I am currently working as a Strategic Communication teaching assistant, but in the past few years, I have gained professional experience in the areas of digital analytics, brand management, advertising, social media marketing, and graphic design with various organizations such as GOLIN, Camping World, San Antonio Report, ArteLatAm New York, and more. During my free time I enjoy going on hikes, cooking, painting, and catching up with my family.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to work for a nonprofit organization and focus on development and digital strategies.
Mitchell Nimmer
Mitchell Nimmer
Undergraduate Education: Marketing from Clemson University in South Carolina
Hometown: : Powdersville, South Carolina
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
TCU gave me the opportunity to advance my professional career as a GA with the Athletics Marketing department, as well as the opportunity to advance my academic career.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I chose Strategic Communications because I felt like it paired well with my Undergraduate experience, while also opening myself up to new opportunities.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am interested in continuing to learn about Sports Communication, as well as PR and Journalism.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I am a Graduate Assistant for TCU Athletics Marketing. I have always loved everything sports and competition.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to continue my career path in sports, specifically in collegiate athletics.
Miguel Ruiz
Miguel Ruiz
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and Management from University of Texas at Arlington
Hometown: Fort Worth
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I’ve bled purple since finishing high school at R.L. Paschal. I aim to be a community and industry leader, so it seemed only fitting to grow into those roles within the community I serve.
Why did you choose communication studies?
I’ve become fascinated with all of strategic communication, having practiced various disciplines globally for the past six years, and aim to become a steward of my profession.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I’d like to explore the world of political strategic communication.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I’m a full-time marketing director at a Fort Worth staple agency, J.O. Agency. I also volunteer on the board of directors for the American Advertising Federation FW chapter. I volunteer at Goodwill’s E-squared program as a youth mentor. I just ended my enlistment as an Army National Guard public affairs officer. I’m also a new dad and fiancé!
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I want to serve as a mentor, leader, and volunteer within our industry and within the Fort Worth community —from volunteering on organization boards to running for office seats.
Holly Rusak
Holly Rusak
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Communication with an emphasis in Journalism from University of Texas at Arlington
Hometown: Fort Worth, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
Growing up in and around Fort Worth, TCU has always been the “home” university for me. While I didn’t get to attend as an undergrad (Go UTA Mavs!), I was thrilled when I got a job in the Bob Schieffer College of Communication. Now, I’m beyond excited to be a Horned Frog for real and eventually an alumna.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
Strategic communication just makes sense for my academic and professional work. Being a later-in-life, non-traditional student gave me a deeper appreciation applying classwork directly to my job. Despite the (journalism) at the end of my degree, I’ve been fortunate enough to do all kinds of creative communication work, and that’s what I hope to continue doing. And I’ve been fortunate to see firsthand how amazing the Strat Comm faculty is: brilliant and welcoming. Who better to help me take my career and education to the next level?
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
Accessibility in communication. Communicators have a duty to ensure that everyone has equal access to messaging, regardless of ability. As content moves more and more to being online only, it’s vital that screen readers and other adaptive programs can easily convey our messages to our audiences.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I’m a full-time staff member with the Schieffer College, where I’m the Director of Digital Media. In my free time (which I don’t expect to have for the next few years…), I love embroidery (please come see my art wall!), snuggling my dogs, Franco and Bettis, and beating my husband, Ryan ’98, at Jeopardy.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
Definitely get back to some of those hobbies! But I look forward to a nice, long career in the Schieffer College, bringing what I’ve learned to life for our students, faculty and staff.
Aloukika Shrestha
Aloukika Shrestha
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Siam University in Thailand
Hometown: Lalitpur, Nepal
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
Growing up in Nepal, coming to the United States for my second graduate degree was a unique experience yet the whole process seemed intimidating at first. But the people at Texas Christian University encouraged me to pursue my master’s in strategic communication with their guidance in every step of the process. I believe the professors and staff at TCU are very professional yet have a personal touch in their work and TCU is such a close-knit community that I decided to take this opportunity.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
After working in the marketing domain for almost 2 years as a business development and social media manager in my country Nepal, I felt like I am not reaching my full potential and there is so much more to explore and learn in the marketing domain with the changing dynamics of marketing and its shift to new media. And I know for sure doing Strategic Communication courses will help me get a modern take in this field.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I’d like to learn more about influencer marketing and social media marketing. Also, it would be interesting to learn the influence of social media on different businesses in the present era along with apt social media content development depending upon the kind of platform and business.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of classes I am working as a teaching assistant at TCU and as research assistant under Dr. Jung, and besides work I like to watch movies, swim, doodle, and sing Bollywood hits!
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After my graduation, my primary goal is to contribute to the family business back in Nepal and help to revitalize the business by slowing shifting it from the traditional way to the modern trends which can sustainably adapt to the changing market dynamics. I also want to get experience in the marketing and advertising business in the United States which I can carry with me to Nepal and find its application in the other side of the world.
Royal Shrestha
Royal Shrestha
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Business Studies from Tribhuvan University in Nepal
Hometown: Sankhuwasabha, Nepal
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I chose Texas Christian University because of its exceptional reputation for promoting a dynamic learning environment. TCU’s commitment to practical education aligns with my aspiration to enhance my strategic communication skills through real-world experiences. Additionally, the supportive faculty and diverse community at TCU offer the ideal platform for me to collaborate with fellow students and professionals, ensuring a well-rounded educational journey.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I am drawn to Strategic Communication because I believe effective communication is at the heart of successful business ventures. With a background in entrepreneurship, I understand the significance of clear messaging, persuasive storytelling, and strategic planning. I aim to deepen my understanding of these crucial skills, equipping me to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and impactful communication strategies.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
My interests span various areas within communication, including e-commerce strategies, branding that resonates, crisis management, and innovative marketing techniques. I am eager to explore how communication can transform the landscape of entrepreneurship, enabling businesses to thrive in a digitally connected world. My goal is to contribute to research that not only enhances academic understanding but also offers practical solutions for businesses.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of classes, I am a Teaching Assistant for faculty within TCU. This role has allowed me to develop leadership and communication skills while supporting my peers’ educational journeys. Beyond academics, I’m a keen Marvel movie enthusiast and a passionate supporter of Manchester United. These hobbies remind me of the power of storytelling and teamwork, traits I apply to my academic and professional life.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After completing my master’s degree, I plan to gain valuable experience in a multinational company, aiming to understand the complexities of cross-border business operations. Prepared with the knowledge acquired from TCU’s Strategic Communication program, I aspire to return to Nepal and establish a business that leverages effective communication to drive success. Ultimately, I seek to positively impact my community through strategic innovation and responsible entrepreneurship.
Chelsea Verrette
Chelsea Verrette
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Child Development from Concordia University St. Paul
Hometown: North Richland Hills, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I chose TCU because it was one of the few universities that provided a program specific to what I was looking to study. I originally was accepted to USC, but upon speaking with the TCU professors, I knew I wanted an in-person experience with experienced professionals who could help me grow and further my career.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I chose Strategic Communication because communication is prevalent in everything we do. Coming from a background as an educator, I knew I wanted to be part of positive change in how we communicate and the messages we send through corporations and media.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
Working in school and education-focused communities for my entire career, I have seen the value of strategic and intentional communication and the devastating impact of poor, thoughtless communication. I want to learn about how to continue to implement positive growth in how we share information in a socially conscious and ethical manner.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of class, I work with a strategic consulting firm in the education technology field as a senior associate consultant. I also work as a teaching assistant in the Strategic Communication program and am thankful for the opportunity to set an example for my two daughters about what is possible.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to continue to work in the education and technology fields, specifically focusing on communication and marketing strategies. In the future I hope to teach again, but this time at the collegiate level.
Hudson Auerbach
Hudson Auerbach
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Texas Christian University
Hometown: Corpus Christi, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I chose TCU because their Master’s of Strategic Communication allows students to both, learn tangible skills for the workforce, and learn from an experienced faculty and staff who truly care for their students.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I chose Strategic Communication because of the amazing opportunities provided by that program.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I want to learn how an individual can serve as translator between occupations and how they can communicate the work and responsibilities from one department, or one individual, to another using Strategic Communication.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I currently work for Texas Christian University’s chapter of the college advising corps. I work full time in a local high school where I help seniors determine what they want to do after high school and then help them reach their goal. Typically, I help students apply for colleges and scholarships, enlist in the military, or pursue a job or trade school.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
Ideally, I would like to manage political campaigns for local congressional candidates where our main focus would be to address and fight for issues facing marginalized groups throughout North Texas and Tarrant County.
A Letter from the Director
Dear Prospective Graduate Student,
On behalf of the faculty and students of the Department of Strategic Communication in the Bob Schieffer College of Communication at Texas Christian University, welcome to our Department. You have an interest in advancing your professional and intellectual goals and capabilities in areas of strategic communication, and we are honored that you are considering us as a program to advance those goals. At the same time, we know that pursuing a Master’s degree is an important decision. We look forward to learning more about you and to answering any questions you may have as you make these important decisions about your professional future.
In determining the right graduate program, applicants are often interested in the ways in which the program may support their professional and educational successes, including through the program’s emphases, faculty engagement and expertise, mentorship and program culture, professional development opportunities, location, timing, and cost. I hope to provide you with some helpful information about our program as you evaluate these and other considerations in making your decision…
Read in FullDear Prospective Graduate Student,
On behalf of the faculty and students of the Department of Strategic Communication in the Bob Schieffer College of Communication at Texas Christian University, welcome to our department. You have an interest in advancing your professional and intellectual goals and capabilities in areas of strategic communication, and we are honored that you are considering us as a program to advance those goals. At the same time, we know that pursuing a Master’s degree is an important decision. We look forward to learning more about you and to answering any questions you may have as you make these important decisions about your professional future.
In determining the right graduate program, applicants are often interested in the ways in which the program may support their professional and educational successes, including through the program’s emphases, faculty engagement and expertise, mentorship and program culture, professional development opportunities, location, timing, and cost. I hope to provide you with some helpful information about our program as you evaluate these and other considerations in making your decision.
Emphases
TCU’s mission is to educate individuals to think and act as ethical leaders and responsible citizens in a global community. Our graduate program is committed to enacting this mission as we equip strategic communication professionals with a broadened understanding of theories and skills with emphases on strategy, research, storytelling, new media and leadership. To this end, students develop competencies and expertise across advertising and public relations courses that enable them to compete and lead, ethically and responsibly, in today’s digital and global world. A list of our graduate courses may be found in TCU’s Graduate Catalog.
Students benefit from TCU’s teacher-scholar model, which means that Master’s students are taught by versed professionals, thought leaders and top scholars in strategic communication. It also means that we are committed to fostering an environment of rich intellectual and professional engagement with our students.
Faculty Engagement and Expertise
All graduate faculty in Strategic Communication are active in research and/or creative activities, teaching and service activities that support the University, the discipline, and our communities. Our faculty have professional experience and scholarly expertise in advertising and public relations, including corporate communication, crisis communication, non-profit communication, public communication, health communication, community engagement, mobile, digital, and social marketing and advertising, consumer behavior, consumer culture, branding, corporate social responsibility, and ethics. In recent years, our faculty have been recognized for their work with various awards and honors, including: a Fulbright Scholar, the Jackson-Sharpe Award (2016, 2014, 2008), Senior Associate Editor for the Public Relations Journal, TCU Dean’s Award for Research, among many others.
Mentorship and Culture
Our focus is on maintaining a program that focuses on a smaller number (approximately 18-25) of in-residence graduate students. This means that students work closely with faculty and with each other to develop deeper understanding and stronger competencies in areas that advance their individual professional and intellectual goals. While all of our faculty are available to mentor graduate students and to lend their areas of expertise to a student’s development, each works closely with a faculty mentor and support committee to develop their capstone project or thesis. Additionally, our students benefit from the advice and experience of the networks of communication professionals and organizations who visit our classes and work with students in our program. Students also have access to a dedicated Schieffer College Career Advisor to help guide them on next steps after completion of the Master’s degree.
Professional Development Opportunities
TCU’s location in one of the largest media markets in the country opens students to a vast network of local, national, and global companies. TCU’s role an important and positive part of the DFW community opens a vast array of opportunities. Faculty and staff regularly network with professionals and our strong alumni network. Strategic Communication students gain valuable experience from collaboration with brands, agencies and non-profits in simulated and real-world, client-based communication projects, and through internships, networking and job opportunities.
Cost
Many of our graduate students pay no tuition. We know the cost of continuing education can be a challenge. We are proud that we are able to offer many of our students merit-based tuition waivers and that cover all or part of a student’s tuition and Graduate Teaching Assistantships that provide a monthly stipend to help with other expenses. These assistantships also provide students with the opportunity to work closely with faculty in ways that advance their understanding of the discipline.
Location
Fort Worth is an exciting place for communication professionals. It is situated in the fifth-largest media market in the country (according to Nielson) and is the 13th largest city in the United States and growing, based on population estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau. With the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport minutes away, it is an international hub with easy access to travel around the world. As a business-friendly city with a strong cultural heritage, Fort Worth offers significant opportunity for communication professionals. Many local, national and international advertising and public relations organizations call this area home. While many may think of the Historic Stockyards as the feature of Fort Worth, the city boasts world-renowned art museums, music venues, sporting events, shops and a plethora of community-based cultural opportunities. Don’t let the large size fool you. With a strong sense of community, thriving neighborhoods and a welcoming spirit, Fort Worth has a small-town feel with big-city benefits. For more information on Fort Worth, see fortworth.com.
Sincerely,
Josh Bentley, PhD
Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies
Department of Strategic Communication
Texas Christian University
Nationally Recognized Faculty
Committed to Teaching and Mentoring
Josh Bentley
Public relations
Law
Crisis communication
Fundraising strategies
Nonprofit media
Josh Bentley
Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Bentley, J. M. (2018). What counts as an apology? Exploring stakeholder perceptions in a hypothetical organizational crisis. Management Communication Quarterly, 32(2), 202-232.
- Bentley, J. M., Oostman, K. R., & Shah, S. F. A. (2018). We’re sorry but it’s not our fault: Organizational apologies in ambiguous crisis situations. Journal of Contingencies and Crisis Management, 26(1), 138-149.
- Yang, A., & Bentley, J. (2017). A balance theory approach to stakeholder network and apology strategy. Public Relations Review, 43(2), 267-277.
- Bentley, J. M., White, J. M., Weiss, D., & Shields, J. D. (2016). Teaching integrated marketing communication campaigns. Teaching Journalism and Mass Communication, 6(1), 18-35.
- Bentley, J. M. (2015). Shifting identification: A theory of apologies and pseudo-apologies. Public Relations Review, 41(1) 22-29.
Previous Experience
- Assistant professor at the University of New Mexico.
- Morning show host and production director radio stations in Alabama, Arkansas and Oklahoma.
Honors & Awards
- Top Faculty Paper, National Communication Association (Public Relations Division)
- Top Poster, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (Public Relations Division)
- Top Student Paper, National Communication Association (Public Relations Division
- Top Student Paper, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (Religion and Media Interest Group)
- Third Place Faculty Paper, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (Public Relations Division)
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- National Communication Association
- Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
Catherine Coleman
Advertising, Consumer Culture, and Transformative Consumer Research: well-being; consumer vulnerability and empowerment; gender and identity; advertising and media representations; marketing and advertising ethics; advertising history; social media culture; cross-cultural marketing and communication
Catherine Coleman
Chair of Strategic Communication and Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Journal of Advertising, “A Transformative Advertising Research (TAR) Perspective on Rewarding Inclusivity: Cannes Lions and the Award Effect.”
- Journal of Advertising, “Transformative Advertising Research: Reimagining the Future of Advertising.”
- Journal of Macromarketing, “Institutional Logics, Gender, and Advertising within a Culture in Transition: Examining Strategies of Advertising Professionals in Turkey for Managing Institutional Complexity.”
- Journal of Business Research, “Transformative Intersectionality: Moving Business Toward a Critical Praxis.”
- Consumption, Markets & Culture, “Power Logics of Consumers’ Gendered (In)justices: Reading Reproductive Health Interventions through the Transformative Gender Justice Framework.”
- Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, “Gender Justice and the Market: A Transformative Consumer Research Perspective.”
- Journal of Advertising, “Advertising Professionals’ Perceptions of the Impact of Gender Portrayals on Men and Women: A Question of Ethics?”
- “Justice in Injustice, Power in Vulnerability: The Dialogical Potential of The Uncondemned.” in Consumer Vulnerability: Conditions, Contexts and Characteristics
- Journal of Popular Culture, “Starving for Diversity: Ideological Implications of Race Representations in Hunger Games.”
- Journal of Marketing Management, “Poverty in Consumer Culture: Towards a Transformative Social Representation.”
- Consumption, Markets & Culture, “Consumption and Gender Identity in Popular Media: Discourses of Domesticity, Sexuality, and Authenticity.”
- “Construction of Consumer Vulnerability by Gender and Ethics of Empowerment,” Gender, Culture, and Consumer Behavior
- Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, “Gender Justice and the Market: A Transformative Consumer Research Perspective.”
-
Advertising & Society Review, “It’s Gotta Be the Shoes: Nike, Mike and Mars and the ‘Sneaker Killings’.”
Previous Experience
- University of Illinois, Department of Advertising
- Loyola University in Chicago
- Market Developer for the Health Sciences Group of the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA)
- Consultant for the City of Chicago Initiative, a Marketing Analyst for eVidient/GE Americom, a Recruitment Advertising Representative at TMP Worldwide, a Research Assistant at Public Opinion Strategies
- Prevention Specialist for the Rape Crisis Center of Chatham County, Georgia.
- University of Illinois, Department of Advertising
- Loyola University in Chicago
- Market Developer for the Health Sciences Group of the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA)
- Consultant for the City of Chicago Initiative, a Marketing Analyst for eVidient/GE Americom, a Recruitment Advertising Representative at TMP Worldwide, a Research Assistant at Public Opinion Strategies
- Prevention Specialist for the Rape Crisis Center of Chatham County, Georgia.
Honors & Awards
- Distinguished Visiting Scholar, School of Management (Marketing Group), Royal Holloway, University of London.
- Dean’s Research Grant Award, The Bob Schieffer College of Communication, TCU
- Coleman Fellow, Entrepreneurship
- Sheth Initiative on Vulnerable Consumers Research Grant
- Best Paper Award (Honorable Mention), Consumption, Markets & Culture
- Top Paper Award, Southwest Education Council for Journalism & Mass Communication Symposium
- Top Six Paper Award, Southwest Education Council for Journalism & Mass Communication Symposium
- American Association of University Women Dissertation Completion Fellowship
- James Webb Young Fund
- Verdell Frazier Award for Women
- Dean’s Research & Creativity Award, TCU.
- Distinguished Visiting Scholar, School of Management (Marketing Group), Royal Holloway, University of London.
- Dean’s Research Grant Award, The Bob Schieffer College of Communication, TCU
- Coleman Fellow, Entrepreneurship
- Sheth Initiative on Vulnerable Consumers Research Grant
- Best Paper Award (Honorable Mention), Consumption, Markets & Culture
- Top Paper Award, Southwest Education Council for Journalism & Mass Communication Symposium
- Top Six Paper Award, Southwest Education Council for Journalism & Mass Communication Symposium
- American Association of University Women Dissertation Completion Fellowship
- James Webb Young Fund
- Verdell Frazier Award for Women
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- Association for Consumer Research
- Consumer Culture Theory Consortium
- Macromarketing Society
- American Advertising Association
- Association for Consumer Research
- Consumer Culture Theory Consortium
- Macromarketing Society
- American Advertising Association
Ashley E. English
Contributions and community engagement strategies of faith-based organizations
Ashley E. English
Associate Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Megachurch involvement in economic development: Theoretical guidance for Organizational Decision-Making. Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action, Annual Conference, Chicago, IL.
- Theoretical understanding of church involvement in economic development: Examining the role of expectations on nonprofit action. Association for Research on Nonprofit and Voluntary Action, Annual Conference, Denver, CO.
- Extra-Role behavior and economic development: A study of the organizational behavior of megachurches, Annual Conference, Washington, D.C.
- The local government perspective of megachurches and extra-role behavior. Association for Research on Nonprofit and Voluntary Action, Annual Conference, Hartford, CT.
- The growth of megachurches: What impacts are they having on local economic development and who benefits? American Society for Public Administration, Annual Conference, New Orleans, LA.
Previous Experience
- Senior manager of public relations and communications for a nonprofit organization that serves the North Texas region.
- Consultant for nonprofit organizations in the areas of professional development and volunteer management.
- Co-founder of the TCU Nonprofit Communicator Conference.
Honors & Awards
- Best Poster Award for the 45th annual ARNOVA Conference in Washington, D.C. Research topic: Megachurches and Practices of Managing Accountability on Websites
- Doctoral Fellows Seminar Award Recipient from the Association for Research on Nonprofit and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA)
- Diversity Scholars and Leaders award from ARNOVA
- 40 Under 40 leader for community involvement and service in the Dallas-Fort Worth area through the Dallas Furniture Bank
Professional Affiliations and Associations
Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action
Amiso George
Risk and crisis communication
Public relations
Corporate communication
Amiso George
Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Presented papers on public relations and crisis communication at national and international conferences and has published journal articles and book chapters in the same area
- Co-editor of Culture and Crisis Communication: Transboundary Cases from Nonwestern Perspectives.
- Co-editor of Case Studies in Crisis Communication: International Perspective on Hits and Misses
- Co-editor of Race, Gender and Other Minorities: Readings for Professional Communicators
- Editor for Sage Open Access (online) publisher
- Reviewer for Routledge, John Wiley and Oxford University publishers
Previous Experience
- Former director of the TCU Strategic Communication graduate program.
- Developed and taught the first course in crisis communication.
- Director of the public relations program at the Reynolds School of Journalism, University of Nevada in Reno.
- Taught at University of Texas San Antonio.
- Worked as a radio and television journalist and freelance broadcaster at Nigerian Television Authority and Voice of America (Africa Service), a consultant for C-SPAN-TV in Washington, D.C., editor-at-large for Celebrate Your Heritage (CYH, and a public relations consultant.
- APR Accreditation Chair for the Greater Fort Worth PRSA.
- Former board member and vice chair of Ohio University Alumni Association.
- Plank Public Relations Fellow in the Corporate Communications Department at USAA.
- Conducted a workshop on crisis communication.
- Visiting associate professor of strategic communication at Swinburne University in Melbourne, Australia.
- Dr. George is an external examiner for the public relations program at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Malaysia.
- Dr. George consults in risk and crisis communication.
Honors & Awards
- PRSA Fellow
- Accredited in Public Relations (APR)
- Winner of three Worthy (professional PRSA) awards.
- Distinguished Faculty Teaching Award at University of Texas San Antonio
- Stephen H. Coltrin Award for Excellence in Communication Education
- The Best of Texas award for her student teams at the Texas Public Relations Association (TPRA) Student Case Study Competition
- 2018 Bridge Award for Excellence in Strategic Communication Research by the International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference and the Nicholson School of Communication at the University of Central Florida
- 2017 PRSA Educator of the Year
- 2017 Carnegie African Diaspora Fellow by the Carnegie Corporation of New York (CCNY)
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- Public Relations Society of America
- International Communication Association
- International Association of Business Disciplines
Jong-Hyuok Jung
Advertising effectiveness in the new media environment
Mobile advertising/marketing
Digital advertising/marketing
Consumer behavior
Jong-Hyuok Jung
Associate Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- International Journal of Advertising
- Journal of Business Research
- International Journal of Consumer Marketing
- International Journal of Mobile Marketing
- Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
- American Academy of Advertising
- International Communication Association
Previous Experience
- Assistant professor of advertising at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.
- Visiting professor at Saatchi and Saatchi, New York City.
- Broadcast producer at LG (currently GS) Home Shopping, Seoul, Korea.
- Web Designer at Seocho-District office, Seoul,Korea
- Strategic Planner at CJ CGV, Seoul, Korea.
- Military Service (Translator & Supply Seargeant) 304th Signal Battalion, Eighth United States Army, Wonju, Korea.
Honors & Awards
- Advertising Education Foundation’s Visiting Professor Fellowship
- Profession Development Award, The University of Texas at Austin
- Gwyn David Media Endowment Scholarship, The University of Texas at Austin
- The Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service, Department of Army
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- American Academy of Advertising (AAA)
- Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC)
- Global Alliance of Marketing and Management Association (GAMMA)
Eunseon (Penny) Kwon
Marketing and persuasive communications in digital and social media environments
Consumer psychology
Branding
Media psychology
Eunseon (Penny) Kwon
Assistant Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Journal of Advertising
- International Journal of Mobile Marketing
- Association for Educators in Journalism and Mass Communication conference
- American Marketing Association conference
- American Academy of Advertising
Previous Experience
- Worked in Television industry in South Korea as content business manager.
- Sold TV shows abroad.
- Purchased award shows and TV shows from Japan, U.S. and U.K.
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- Member of Association of Consumer Research
- Member of American Academy of Advertising
- Member of Association for Education in Journalism & Mass Communication
- Member of American Marketing Association
Liang (Lindsay) Ma
Crisis management
Consumer-brand relationships
Branding
Consumer behaviors
Campaigns
Advanced quantitative methodology
Liang (Lindsay) Ma
Associate Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Journal of Public Relations Research
- Public Relations Review
- Journal of Applied Communication Research
- Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
- International Public Relations Research Conference
Previous Experience
Public relations in China.
Wendy Macias
Advertising
Health Communication
Pharmaceutical advertising
Wendy Macias
Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Journal of Advertising
- Journal of Health Communication
- Health Communication
- Journal of Current Issues and Research in Advertising
- Health Marketing Quarterly
- Pharmaceutical Medicine
- International Journal of Advertising
- Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication
Previous Experience
- Sales promotion, market research and marketing.
- Associate professor of advertising at the University of Georgia.
Julie O’Neil
Public relations
Internal communication
Corporate social responsibility
Measuring and evaluating communication programs and public relationships
Julie O’Neil
Professor and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Administration
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Men, R.L., O’Neil, J. & Ewing, M. (2020, August). “From the employee perspective: Organizations’ administration of internal social media and the relationship between social media engagement and relationship cultivation,” International Journal of Business Communication, 1-28. doi: 10.1177/2329488420949968
- Men, R.L., O’Neil, J. & Ewing, M. (2020, January). “Examining the effects of internal social media usage on employee engagement,” Public Relations Review, 46(2), 1-9. doi: 10.1016/j.pubrev.2020.101880.
- Ewing, M., Men, R. L. & O’Neil, J. (2019, February). Using social media to engage employees: Insights from internal communication managers. The International Journal of Strategic Communication, 13(2), 110-132. doi: 10.1080/1553118X.2019.1575830
- O’Neil, J., Eisenmann, M., & Holman, M. (2019). A mixed methods examination of how people assess the credibility of sources used by public relations practitioners. The Journal of Promotion Management, 25, 1-21. https://doi.org/10.1080/10496491.2018.1536619
- O’Neil, J., Ewing, M., Smith, S. & Williams, S. (2018). A delphi study to identify standards for internal communication. Public Relations Journal, 11(3), 1-16.
- O’Neil, J. & Eisenmann, M. (2017). “An Examination of How Source Classification Impacts Credibility and Consumer Behavior,” Public Relations Review, 43(2), 278-292.
- O’Neil, J. & Lambiase, J. (2016). “Considering Certification?: An Analysis of Universities’ Communication Certificates and Feedback from Public Relations,” Journal of Public Relations Education, 2(1), 34-46.
- Eisenmann, M., O’Neil, J., & Geddes, D. (2015). An examination of the validity, reliability, and best practices related to the standards for traditional media. Research Journal of the Institute for Public Relations, 2(1), 1-28. IPR Signature Study.
Previous Experience
- Public relations and marketing in multiple settings: agency, corporate, and nonprofit.
- Teaching and researching public relations for more than 20 years.
- Former Division Chair and Director of Graduate Studies in the Strategic Communication Department at TCU.
Honors & Awards
- Bob Schieffer College of Communication Faculty Research Nominee, 2020
- Public Relations Society of America Employee Communication Award, International Public Relations Research Conference (IPRRC), 2019 & 2018
- Jackson Sharpe Award for best co-authored research paper by a public relations academic and professional, IPRRC, 2016, 2014, & 2008
- Institute for Public Relations Top Three Paper Award, IPRRC, 2017 & 2007
- Bob Schieffer College of Communication Award for Distinguished Achievement as a Teacher-Scholar, 2016 & 2014
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- Arthur Page Society member
- Senior Associate Editor, Public Relations Journal
- Measurement Commission of the Institute for Public Relations
- Commission on Public Relations Education Commission Board Member
- International Public Relations Research Advisory Committee
- Journal of Public Relations Education Editorial Board
- Public Relations Society of America member
- Association of Education in Journalism and Mass Communication member