prospective students

An internationally recognized center for research and teaching in political and international communication, the George Washington University School of Media and Public Affairs is a dynamic, interdisciplinary program based in the heart of Washington, D.C., where media, public affairs and politics intersect. At SMPA our undergraduate and graduate programs combine elements of strategic communication, journalism and political communication with contemporary issues in domestic and international politics.

Undergraduate Programs
The School of Media and Public Affairs offers a variety of academic options including two undergraduate programs, Political Communication and Journalism and Mass Communication and two five year BA/MA programs.

Graduate Programs
The Master of Arts degree in Media and Public Affairs offers students the opportunity to study strategic political communication applied to domestic and international issues. This program is designed for students who are interested in the intersection among media, communication, and politics. Students will develop expertise in the study and practice of political persuasion, new media and politics, media and public opinion, and political networks and movements.

The SMPA also offers, jointly with the Elliott School of International Affairs, a Master of Arts degree in Global Communication. The curriculum blends a rigorous academic education in communication theory and international affairs with advanced professional training. This program is designed for students whose primary interest is in international relations.

The Documentary Center at SMPA offers a Certificate in Documentary Filmmaking, a six month intensive exploration in the theory and practice of documentary filmmaking.

Five Year Programs
A five-year dual degree program is available for undergraduate students in Political Communication or Journalism and Mass Communication interested in pursing an MA in Media and Public Affairs. The program allows students to complete the MA degree in less time at a considerable tuition savings.

SMPA has joined with the Graduate School of Political Management to offer our undergraduates the opportunity to pursue a Master of Professional Studies in Political Management along with their BA.


Admissions
If you're interested in studying with us and becoming part of the SMPA community, you'll find what you need on our Admissions page.

Learn More
Get more details about our academics or plan a visit to GW.