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Master of Communication and Media Industries (MCMI)

Rooted in Annenberg’s tradition of academic excellence and public impact, this master’s program offers a chance to develop your skills in research, critical inquiry, and applied practice. It equips students with a sophisticated analytical framework and hands-on experience through real-world projects and immersive case studies that address current challenges and innovations in the media ecosystem. 

Program Overview

The Master of Communication and Media Industries (MCMI) at the Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Pennsylvania prepares students to navigate and lead in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Designed for aspiring media professionals and strategic communicators, the program bridges academic rigor with real-world application, offering a deep understanding of media systems, content creation, analytics, and industry trends.  

The MCMI program will admit a small, highly-selective cohort of 15 students for its inaugural year. This intimate structure fosters close mentorship, individualized academic support, and a dynamic, collaborative learning environment.    

Students will interact with leading experts, many of whom are Annenberg alumni, from media, digital content platforms, entertainment, and the tech industry to deepen their classroom learning and provide a direct bridge to industry opportunities.    

Key Facts at a Glance

  • Format: Semester, full-time (completed in one year) or part-time

  • Program Type: Small, immersive, individualized professional program

  • Start Term: August 2026

Curriculum (8 courses)

The MCMI curriculum blends core foundational learning with customizable electives, real-world case studies, and immersive project work.

  • Core Courses: The foundation of the program will consist of two core courses focusing on key ideas, conversations, and questions in the communication and media industry.
  • Electives: Students are required to complete four elective courses. Up to one elective course can be taken at another school at the University of Pennsylvania.   
  • Capstone Research & Case Investigation: Students will complete two courses during the spring and summer terms and present their work to a panel of industry experts.

Admissions 

  • Applications will be evaluated based on project proposal and merit, including academic record, recommendations, professional standing, and relevant work experience.
  • The following materials are required for admission consideration:
    • Transcripts from all institutions attended
    • Personal statement organized in a three-page description of the question they seek to investigate in the capstone Case Investigation.
    • Resume or CV
    • Two letters of recommendation
    • Required: Writing Samples
    • Optional: GRE scores
    • TOEFL scores:
      • The TOEFL requirements may be waived for applicants who graduate from a four-year program in the US or other English-speaking countries.
    • Application fee (can be waived based on need)
    • An interview with the admissions committee on a case-by-case basis

Key Dates

October 2 The Annenberg School begins accepting applications for the fall term that begins the following calendar year.
February 2 Application closes 
Early March Annenberg will notify applicants about all admission decisions.

Questions:

Contact Admissions