Engaging the World – One Partnership at a Time

Simon Fraser University’s M.A. Double Degree in Global Communication

The School of Communication at Simon Fraser University has a 40-year tradition of shaping the advanced study of communication. True to the university’s philosophy of ‘Engaging the World’ the School is offering a new international double degree program in Vancouver and Beijing.

The partnership – announced in November 2012 between Simon Fraser University and the Communication University of China in Beijing – is an opportunity for graduate-level students from anywhere in the world to further their pursuits in the interdisciplinary and increasingly important field of global communication.

China is the world’s second-largest economy and is in the midst of rapid change. As the country’s global influence grows, so too are its communications systems evolving: the internet, mobile phones, social media, TV, movies and music are all having transformative effects. SFU’s partnership with the leading Chinese research university in the field offers students the opportunity to open new intellectual horizons and explore communication across the world’s increasingly integrated regions.

Studying in a single cohort of Chinese, Canadian and international students, candidates for the M.A. Double Degree in Global Communication complete coursework, research projects and field placements in a rigorous two-year program on both sides of the Pacific. All students spend their first year at SFU’s campuses in Vancouver and Burnaby. Year Two of the program takes place at the CUC campus in Beijing. The language of instruction is English, but students are required to demonstrate basic proficiency in Mandarin or complete a non-credit introductory course. Graduates are awarded an M.A. in Communication from SFU and an M.A. in Communication from the CUC.

Students are expected to complete a minimum number of mandatory and elective credits at both universities. SFU courses cover topics ranging from communication and global power shifts to the role of communication in social justice. At the CUC, core courses cover Chinese media and society along with regional communication and cultural industries. Full details on course offerings and requirements are available here .

A field placement component in each year is a key feature of the program. Students partner with government, industry or civil society organizations to apply their knowledge and engage with topical issues. At the end of each academic year students complete a capstone research essay advised by professors at both institutions.

The School of Communication at SFU is pleased to offer competitive entrance scholarships worth $23,000 each. China Scholarship Council awards, covering a full year’s tuition and living expenses, will also be available to outstanding students entering their second year of the program. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit; further information on tuition and student funding can be found here .

Simon Fraser University is at the forefront of innovative education, cutting-edge research and community outreach. The M.A. Double Degree builds on the robust international outlook of the School of Communication and advances the School’s leadership in the study of global communication.

Prospective students are encouraged to apply for the Fall 2013 intake by the application deadline – February 1, 2013 at http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/future/application_process.html