The University of Akron launches five-year accelerated degree pathway in communication

The University of Akron’s School of Communication, part of the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences (BCAS), announces the launch of a new five-Year Accelerated Degree Pathway (ADP) for students pursuing careers in communication. The program allows qualifying undergraduates to earn both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years, saving time and money while giving them a competitive edge in the job market.

The ADP program is open to students in undergraduate majors, including communication studies, media studies, organizational supervision and public relations, who meet the program’s admission requirements. Students begin graduate coursework during their senior year, earning up to 8 credits toward a graduate degree, and transition seamlessly into the 100% online Master of Arts in Strategic Communication program upon graduation.

“This new program is making degrees more accessible for students,” said Dr. Andrea Meluch, graduate coordinator and associate professor in the School of Communication. “Many students already come into college with college credit. Now they can fast-track both a bachelor’s and master’s degree, saving time and money.”

Students in the ADP program follow a structured course plan, beginning with graduate courses such as Strategic Social Media and Crisis Communication in their senior year. The master’s portion also includes opportunities to earn certificates such as Strategic Social Media, Health and Crisis Communication, Instructional Communication for Educators and Applied Political Communication.

Interested students are encouraged to contact Dr. Andrea Meluch at alm133@uakron.edu for more information or to begin the application process.

Media contact: Cristine Boyd 330-972-6476; cboyd@uakron.edu