To train students as effective communicators who influence
positive social change around the globe, St. John’s has launched a
new Master of Science program in International
Communications.
This unique graduate program is among few offered in the field and
reflects the University’s commitment to prepare students as
international citizens with the knowledge and skills to make an
impact on the lives of others across the globe. The widely
acknowledged role of the media in shaping and influencing opinion
on such issues as social justice and poverty has attracted a number
of enthusiastic students who strive to become skilled communicators
empowered to act as agents of change.
“My goal is to become an advocate of human rights in third world
countries and abroad,” explains Sadie Miller ‘09C, an alumna and
first year student in the program. “Having the ability to
articulate and clearly express myself is key to making an impact in
this world.”
Senior managers and directors of communication for the world’s
largest multi-national corporations and non-governmental
organizations hold this degree,” boasts
Basilio Monteiro, Ph.D., Founding Director and Associate
Professor of Mass Communication in the College of Professional
Studies.
“Whether you want to live in Gambia as a communication specialist
for The World Trade Organization or promote peace and justice with
Amnesty International – this degree will lead you to success in any
area of communication in any part of the world.”
Students will learn the art of facilitating productive discourse by
examining the field through a theoretical and historical lens while
also gaining knowledge of global communication structures. Overseas
courses and internships will give students exposure to the inner
workings of the international communications field.
“In my introduction to international communication class, we
discussed the types of injustices that people face and why nothing
is being done to change the situation,” recalls Sadie. “I sat there
thinking to myself ‘I want to be that voice that helps
them.’”
With innovative study abroad courses like “Communication, Media and
Public Diplomacy” – a new comparative study course taking place in
three European countries this summer – students will attain a
deeper understanding of human dignity and development through
cultural immersion, service-learning opportunities and direct
insight from professionals working at NGOs and government
agencies.
“A lot of our knowledge of what’s happening in the world comes from
the media,” explains Judith Cramer, Journalism Program Director and
Professor of international public relations. “So it’s vital that
students interested in communication be exposed to international
human rights and inter-cultural communication, in addition to
developing an expertise in specific areas.”
“There will be so much that I can bring to the table once I
graduate,” notes Sadie. “I am certain that everything I learn and
experience in this program will give me the confidence I need to
take a stand for what I believe in.”
To apply for this exciting new program, please visit the Master of
Science in International Communications Web
site.