California Baptist University College of Arts and Sciences
“Integration of faith with learning is key to our identity and mission, tasks and goals. Our commitment to applying faith to life is second to none. If you want to pursue a job to earn a living, a degree program from most any university will do. But if you want to pursue a calling, CBU and the College of Arts and Sciences programs will prepare you to live for something greater.”
Lisa Hernandez, PhD Dean, College of Arts and Sciences
Program Distinctives
Tell Stories to an Online Audience
The Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program aligns with current trends in strategic communication to provide students with advanced skills in communication program management and development for communication campaigns in traditional and online modalities.
Manage Organizational Reputations Effectively
Students in the program learn skills in organizational communication, issues management and decision-making while applying strategic communication methods and theories to effectively manage an organization’s reputation.
Strategically Enhance an Organization’s Message
Students apply strategic communication methods and theories to develop comprehensive communication programming and messages to effectively communicate through a variety of media.
Program Details at a Glance
Program Length*
36 units
1 year, full time (part-time options are available)
Program Cost**
$22,865
$605 per unit
$365 per semester general fee
Program Start Term
Asynchronous online Fall (September) Spring (January) Summer (May)
Class Format
Accreditation
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
What does Asynchronous mean?
CBU’s asynchronous class format means our online programs provide the maximum amount of flexibility for a minimum amount of interruption to your busy schedule. Additionally, the 8-week format means you can complete your degree twice as fast as a traditional semester schedule.
*Rotations are custom built. Program length may vary depending on course availability.
**Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Our purpose is to help you live yours.
Alumni Highlight
Philip Falcone Class of 2022
Philip Falcome is a Riverside City Council Member for Ward 1.
Q: Why did you want to study strategic communication?
A: The graduate program in strategic communication perfectly fits my professional career and adds value to the work I do daily. The strategic communication program made the most sense for me and my future.
Q: Why did you choose to study strategic communication at CBU?
A: The near-entirety of my academic career has been in institutions anchored by the teachings of Jesus Christ. CBU ensured that tradition continued for me in my graduate work, something other universities could not offer.
Q: What is the most rewarding thing about working in your industry or specific job role?
A: In local government, I am able to have a direct, positive impact on the lives of people in my community. Seeing change in real-time and knowing I had a hand in that fills me with pride and love for what I do.
Q: How did CBU prepare you for your career?
A: CBU prepared me for a career in communication by utilizing the fundamentals of communication studies and pairing those with the latest information in this vastly modernizing and evolving field. Knowing the foundation with the latest thought is a powerful pairing for success.
Q: What is a piece of advice you would give to someone looking to apply to this program?
A: Effective communication — one’s ability to successfully communicate ideas and thoughts — is often taken for granted and assumed to be common knowledge. The reality is that there is much to learn in the communication space, and the lessons learned are applicable in all fields, making this program a wise academic and professional choice.
Faculty Spotlight
Sandra Romo, PhD Director, Strategic Communication Programs Professor of Communication
I was drawn to the art of communication when I realized it is not just about exchanging messages, but about the experiences, relationships and influence created through communication. This realization shaped my career, my teaching and my relationships with students, family and colleagues. At California Baptist University, we take a faith-based approach to Strategic Communication, equipping students with the tools to lead, inspire and engage in meaningful dialogue across industries. In today’s fast-paced and digital world, the ability to craft messages that inform, persuade and connect is a highly sought-after skill in marketing, public relations, corporate leadership, media and nonprofit sectors.
This experience instilled in me a deep passion for teaching and mentorship, ensuring that every student feels supported in their academic and professional journey. At CBU, we believe that communication is not just a skill—it’s a calling. Whether you aspire to shape public perception, strengthen organizational culture or create compelling brand narratives, our program is designed to prepare you for success in any career that requires strategic messaging and leadership.
Students in the Strategic Communication program gain real-world experience through hands-on projects, internships and research, developing professional skills in storytelling, leadership and digital media strategy. Our faculty are deeply invested in your success, providing mentorship, networking opportunities and career guidance. Most importantly, we approach communication through a Christian perspective, helping students understand how to engage ethically, share their faith and foster meaningful connections in the workplace and beyond.
As the years pass, we may not remember every aspect of the conversation with others, but we remember how we felt. I strive to create rich experiences with my students, to honor Christ in my interactions and hope they remember their time at CBU, in my classroom, in the years to come.
I invite you to be part of this exciting journey. Join us at CBU and discover how Strategic Communication can shape your career, deepen your faith and equip you to lead in a rapidly evolving world. I look forward to welcoming you to our program.
Admissions Requirements
Application for admission with a $45 application fee.
Official transcript from an accredited college or university reflecting the completion of a baccalaureate degree.
Minimum 2.75 GPA cumulative or last 60/90 unit GPA. Additional opportunities may be available for a student to overcome an unsatisfactory GPA.
Written statement of purpose OR virtual program interview (student’s choice). Written statement (500-word maximum) or interview will address:
• What are your educational goals?
• How will this program help meet those goals?
• What makes you a good fit for CBU?
Additional requirements may be requested.
How to Apply
Provide any supplemental documents required. 01 02 03 Application
Submit a graduate application at calbaptist.edu/gradapp.
Send official college or university transcripts.
Deadlines
Ready to take the next step? Follow this QR code to start your application!
Graduate Admissions
8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504
951.343.4249
calbaptist.edu
College of Arts and Sciences
Department of Communication Arts 8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504
