Accelerated Bachelor's and Master's in Communication
Fast-track your education with our accelerated program
Interested in speeding up the time it takes to earn both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees? Our accelerated program allows you to gain advanced communication skills, save money, and compete successfully in today’s job market.
Eligibility
BA or BS in Communication - online or immersion
Minimum 3.0 GPA at the time of pre-application and through completion of undergraduate degree.
. Please note that courses are shared only during the last two semesters of your undergraduate studies (traditionally known as your senior year).
Students admitted to the Accelerated Program must maintain a 3.0 GPA for all coursework on the graduate plan of study including shared 400-level courses and all 500-level coursework.
Timeline and Steps to Apply
Step 1: Meet with an Advisor: Schedule an appointment with your undergraduate advisor to discuss the Accelerated Program by the first semester of your junior year (third year). Appointments can be made through your MyASU page under the Advising tab.
Step 2: Submit Pre-Application: Complete the pre-application form.
Step 3: Meet with Graduate Program Director: Upon approval, schedule a meeting with Raena Quinlivan, Director of the Online MA in Communication.
Step 4: Submit Your Graduate Application: Submit your MA program application for the semester following your undergraduate graduation to officially transition to a graduate student.
Application Deadlines
Fall semester applications open on September 1 (e.g., for Fall 2024 graduate start, apply by September 1, 2023)
Spring semester applications open on February 1 (e.g., for Spring 2025 graduate start, apply by February 1, 2024)
Questions about this can be directed to Raena Quinlivan.
Required Online Graduate Application Materials
Graduate Admissions Application and pay fee:
Resume: Include relevant employment and volunteer experience.
Statement of Purpose: 1-2 pages explaining your relevant work or volunteer experience, fit for the program, and your career goals after graduate school.
International Applicants: Must meet the English proficiency requirement or qualify for an exemption.
Shared Courses Information
Number of Shared Courses Allowed
Up to 4 courses (12 credits). Please note that you cannot receive Accelerated Program credit for courses you previously took before being admitted into the Accelerated Program.
Must maintain a 3.0 GPA on all shared courses.
If your GPA falls below 3.0, you will be withdrawn from the program.
Shared Course Options**
Two Courses (6 credits) from the following 400-levels:
COM 400/403: Intercultural Business Communication
COM 452: Communication and the Art of Happiness
COM 430: Leadership in Group Communication
Two Courses (6 credits) from the following 500-levels:
COM 504: Theories and Models in Communication
COM 501: Research Methods in Communication
**This list is a sample of shared course options. Additional course offerings may be available; reach out to your advisor for more information.
FAQs
Yes, as long as you have completed all the requirements to graduate from your undergraduate program, you will still receive your bachelor’s degree.
No, for this accelerated program students must immediately begin the master’s program after they graduate with their bachelor’s degree.
Yes. This program allows for an online or immersion BA or BS in Communication to Online MA in Communication. If you are an international student or a veteran student, please be sure to reach out to Financial Aid to ensure a modality shift has no academic or financial implications.
No, there are two separate ceremonies for graduation. The bachelor’s ceremony is separate from the master’s ceremony.