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Master of research in strategic communication 1+1

The Master’s Programme in Strategic Communication at the Caucasus School of Media is designed for individuals seeking in-depth knowledge of contemporary communication, a strategic perspective and stronger managerial competencies. The programme offers career advancement opportunities both to professionals already working in communication-related fields and to those wishing to change career paths and acquire a new profession.

 

As part of the higher education reform, from the 2026–2027 academic year, the Master’s Programme in Strategic Communication will follow a 1+1 model consisting of two stages. Students may complete only the first stage and earn a Master’s degree in Public Relations. Those who continue their studies in the second year may earn a Master of Research degree in Public Relations, which provides an academic pathway to doctoral studies.

 

What Do Students Study in the First Year?

 

During the first year, students acquire a solid foundation in strategic communication and develop the ability to analyse an organisation’s communication needs, identify target audiences and plan effective strategies. They study communication psychology, marketing strategies, digital communication, brand development and management, corporate social responsibility and organisational communication.

 

Students also develop managerial competencies by learning how to plan and manage projects, use resources effectively and make strategic decisions. The Academic Writing course equips them with the skills required to produce well-structured, evidence-based and persuasive academic texts.

 

Through elective courses, students may deepen their knowledge in visual, advertising, political, or intercultural communication, data analysis and visualisation and event planning and management. They also have the opportunity to undertake field practice and apply their knowledge in a professional setting.

 

What Do Students Study in the Second Year?

 

The second year focuses more extensively on research, analytical and specialised competencies. Students master qualitative and quantitative research methods and learn how to formulate a research problem, collect and analyse data, design research instruments and develop a comprehensive research design in the field of strategic communication.

 

Specialised elective courses allow students to study crisis communication management, information operations and strategic communication, the use of programming languages in communication, and sociological research. At this stage, students learn how to assess risks in complex information environments, plan crisis responses and make data-informed communication decisions.

 

At the final stage of Part II of the programme, students prepare and defend a Master’s thesis. While working on the thesis, they integrate the theoretical knowledge, research methods, and practical experience acquired throughout the programme and independently investigate a current issue in strategic communication.

 

Employment Opportunities

 

Graduates may pursue careers in the private, public and non-governmental sectors, communication and advertising agencies, media organisations and international projects. They may work in strategic and corporate communication, public relations, brand management, digital communication, crisis management and project management.

Master of research in strategic communication 1+1 consists of two independent parts, each covering one academic year:

 

  • Part I – 60 ECTS credits
  • Part II – 60 ECTS credits

 

The 1+1 model allows students either to complete only the first part of the programme or to undertake both parts.

 

Graduates who complete only Part I are awarded a Master’s degree in Public Relations and are eligible to continue their studies in Part II of the programme. Students who also complete the second year are awarded a Research Master’s degree in Public Relations and are eligible to continue their education at the next academic level-a doctoral programme.

 

See the Program 

Enrollment Rules and Procedures:

 

Admission requirements for the Master’s Programme in Strategic Communication at the Caucasus School of Media:

 

  • Successful completion of the Common Master’s Examination;
  • English language proficiency at B2 level. Applicants may either submit a certificate confirming their proficiency level or take the University’s English language test;
  • An interview with the University Admissions Committee.

 

Required Documents

 

  • A notarised copy of the diploma and diploma supplement;
  • CV/résumé;
  • One passport-size photograph and a digital copy on a CD;
  • A copy of the applicant’s ID card;
  • A copy of the military registration certificate (for male applicants);
  • Unified National Examinations scorecard;
  • Motivation letter;
  • Online registration form.

 

Important Dates

 

  • Application period: 22 July-5 September, from 10:00 to 18:00, Room A2;
  • Interviews with shortlisted applicants: 8 September 2026;
  • English language examination, if required: 9 September 2026.

 

Tuition Fee

 

The annual tuition fee for a Master’s programme at the Caucasus School of Media is GEL 8,990.

 

CU Grant

 

You can finance your master's studies through the CU Scholarship, which covers 50% of the tuition fee. You may qualify for the CU Scholarship through either of the following pathways:

 

  • You are (or will be) a graduate of a bachelor's degree program at any university and have a cumulative weighted GPA of 3.5 or higher; or

  • You score 65% or more of the maximum total score on the Unified Master's Examination.

 

If you meet either of these criteria, you are eligible to participate in the CU Scholarship written competition.

 

Scholarship Retention

 

To retain the CU Scholarship, students must complete Part I of the 1+1 Master's Program in Strategic Communication within one academic year.

 

The scholarship awarded for Part II of the program will remain valid provided that the student:

 

  • continues their studies in Part II without interruption; and

  • completes Part I with a GPA of 3.8 or higher.

 

Sample grant exam.

 

Nino Zhizhilashvili

Dean

Tel: (+995 32) 37 77 77 (303)

E-mail: nzhizhilashvili@cu.edu.ge

 

Tamta Kakriashvili

Undergraduate and Graduate Programs Administrative Director at Caucasus School of Media

Tel: (+995 32) 237 77 77 (273)

E-Mail: Tkakriashvili@cu.edu.ge