coffeencomputers

You should check out Info Science programs too. UMSI has a great program and some MA candidates get fully funded. I've got more thoughts. Feel free to DM me.

Why are you switching to Comm? What do you plan to do after with the MA? Do you have a sense of what about tech/comm you're interested in?

My understanding of these fields, given my exposure to friends in these fields, is that strategic comm won't be focused on politics, but rather public-facing comm (e.g. PR, external affairs, corporate comm). Contrastingly, political comm might focus on elections, campaigns, etc., depending on school. More than open to answering further questions...

Have you decided yet? If you want, I have some thoughts on LSE&USC for their dual degree program, as well as LSE in general. I appreciated my time here at LSE but am more than willing to give you candid insight about the program, both its strengths and weaknesses. LSE has an extensive network, depending on what you want to do, especially if it's in media and comm... Ultimately, I think it depends on what you want to do after your master's degree(s). Feel free to PM me for more info.

Hey lewhitman, I'm a current student at LSE from the US. I am not sure about the specifics about every program in the UK but, overall, the UK system seems to be more independent-study and hands-off, in terms of guidance. Many UK schools also have a system where you take have two academic terms and then finals. Thus, I'd advise you to be prepared to do a lot of independent reading, exploring ideas, and to seek out the opportunities/guidance you want and/or need. Also, the grading system is quite different and takes getting used to. It's normal to shoot for a 70 here and that's a great grade... Finally, OII is a great program, though a bit small for me (and I only visited for their PhD program). Their master's program is growing and they're doing some innovative stuff, as well as launching many new projects. Depending on what you're studying, I'd suggest looking at LSE to see if there are faculty you're interested in working with. I think OII is a two-year vs. LSE is a one-year degree and thoroughly helped me prepare for my PhD program. UCL is reputable too, but, in general, not all UK degrees have the same reputation in the US so it depends on what you want to do and where you want to be after the master's degree. Hope that helps. Feel free to PM me if you have more questions.