Postgraduate Programmes
Master of Communication in Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC)
Digital First. Data Driven. AI Enabled.Future Focused.
Master of Communication in Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC)
Offered in USM@KL for Conventional (Face-to-Face) and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) modes through USM's digital learning ecosystem.
The Master of Communication in Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) at Universiti Sains Malaysia is designed for communication professionals, marketing practitioners, entrepreneurs, and aspiring leaders seeking to advance their expertise in an increasingly digital and technology-driven communication environment.
Offered in both Conventional (Face-to-Face) and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) modes, the program provides learners with the flexibility to pursue a world-class postgraduate education while balancing professional and personal commitments. Conventional classes are conducted at USM@KL, strategically located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) is a contemporary approach to communication and brand management that emphasizes the strategic integration of advertising, public relations, digital marketing, social media, content creation, direct marketing, sales promotion, and emerging communication technologies to create meaningful and measurable brand experiences.
Offered at USM@KL for almost 14 years, the IMC program has established itself as one of USM's well-recognized postgraduate communication programs. Its strong industry orientation, contemporary curriculum, and commitment to academic excellence have attracted communication professionals and practitioners from Malaysia and around the world. Continuously reviewed and enhanced to remain responsive to industry needs and technological advancements, the program now reflects a digital-first, data-driven, AI-enabled, and future-focused approach to communication education.
With more than 60% of its students comprising working professionals, the program has attracted learners from diverse industries and countries, including Saudi Arabia, the Maldives, China, Canada, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Libya, and Indonesia, creating a vibrant learning community that fosters professional networking, industry engagement, and global perspectives.
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Master of Communication
Balanced Research & Taught Modules - Mixed Mode
Master of Arts (Communication) - Mixed Mode
The Master of Arts (Communication) offers a combination of taught courses and research work. This program consists of 70% research and 30% taught courses. The courses will prepare students with the knowledge and skills required for conducting in-depth research before they undertake independent research on any topic related to communication.
Students will master both quantitative and qualitative research methods and develop a sound understanding of major communication theories to advance knowledge in related areas in communication and media such as journalism, public relations, advertising, new media and film studies. The mixed mode program is ideal for students who enjoy research activities and aspires to be communication scholars or academics in the future.
This mode provides students with the opportunity to develop a sound understanding of major communication theories and research specifically in the study of journalism, communication and societal issues, technology, media and culture.
Course Structure
Students are required to complete 40 units comprising three core courses and a dissertation.
- YSK501/4 - Advanced Communication Theory
- YSK502/4 - Quantitative Communication Research Methods
- YSK505/4 - Qualitative Communication Research Methods
- YSK510/28 - Dissertation
Dissertation Component (28 Units)
Candidates are required to conduct a research in a communication-related area under the supervision of an academic staff and write a dissertation.
Master of Arts (Communication)
Advanced Research Excellence - Research Mode
Master of Arts (Communication) - Research Mode
The research mode for Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy cater to students who possess a strong theoretical background and wish to undertake independent research. Candidates will complete their theses by working under the supervision of one or more faculty members. Masters candidates are required to present their proposal within six months of their registration date, whereas the Doctoral candidates are required to present their proposal within one year of their registration date.
Admission Requirements (Master of Arts)
Applicants should possess the following:
- A Bachelor's Degree (with Honours) in related communication or media areas.
- A minimum CGPA score checkpoint of 2.75/4 or equivalent metrics.
- Degrees awarded by local private institutions of higher learning including those awarded under any collaborative/franchising schemes with local or international partners must be accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).
International Applicants Language Framework
Applicants are required to have a minimum English proficiency profile score matching any of these trailing metrics:
| English Examination System | Required Score Target |
|---|---|
| Paper-based TOEFL | 550 |
| Computer-based TOEFL | 213 |
| Internet-based TOEFL | 80 |
| IELTS Standard System | 6.0 |
Doctor of Philosophy
Highest Academic Research Excellence - Research Mode
Doctor of Philosophy - Research Mode
The research mode for Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy cater to students who possess a strong theoretical background and wish to undertake independent research. Candidates will complete their theses by working under the supervision of one or more faculty members.
Masters candidates are required to present their proposal within six months of their registration date, whereas the Doctoral candidates are required to present their proposal within one (1) year of their registration date.
Doctoral Thesis Candidacy Milestone
- Comprehensive oversight framework under the specialized guidance of assigned university faculty supervisors.
- Doctoral candidates must successfully present and clear their proposal milestone defense within the maximum timeframe of one year.
Graduation Requirement
Candidates pursuing post-graduate research tracks under the Master of Arts (MA) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) frameworks are required to fulfill specific residency milestones, publication expectations, and structural submission regulations set by the school before being successfully cleared for graduation status.