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2015-2016 Graduate Catalog 
    
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2015-2016 Graduate Catalog This is not the most recent catalog version; be sure you are viewing the appropriate catalog year.

Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC)

The M.S. IMC program will be conducted exclusively online. Twelve rigorous three-credit courses will be required, culminating with a capstone experience in which students prepare a cohesive IMC plan for a real-world client.

Goal and Objectives

  1. Develop a foundation amongst students for identifying stakeholders; learning the strengths, weaknesses and applications of each communications vehicle; and for competency in preparing cohesive IMC plans.
  2. Achieve an understanding of the primary role of IMC as the key to building brand image and brand equity.
  3. Prepare graduates of the IMC program to be able to:
    1. Identify all stakeholders as an early step in the IMC process;
    2. Identify the situations when each functional area of IMC can be effectively utilized;
    3. Discuss various factors in the global environment and how they influence IMC decisions;
    4. Explain how brand equity is built, measured and managed;
    5. Identify the factors that shape consumer decision making;
    6. Plan IMC message communications strategies;
    7. Explain the meaning of developing the same message across different vehicles;
    8. Demonstrate how marketing objectives are translated into effective media strategies;
    9. Explain how the Internet and other new media vehicles can be used to build customer relationships;
    10. Discuss the roles of direct marketing in acquiring and retaining customers and building loyalty;
    11. Explain how to measure the results of a direct marketing campaign;
    12. Discuss how to use research for creative development and measuring the impact of the brand communications programs;
    13. Explain the applications of sales promotion to build traffic, launch new products and build brands;
    14. Identify the ethical and regulatory issues surrounding IMC;
    15. Develop evaluative standards to determine success/failure of any given IMC campaign;
    16. Develop a comprehensive and viable IMC plan for a real-world profit or nonprofit organization.
  4. Be research-oriented and gain respect for developing knowledge in this discipline.
  5. Reinforce the theme of developing innovative, applied and global programs.

Program Admission:

Admission to the IMC program is selective and highly competitive. At a minimum applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Complete the Graduate School application.
  2. Hold a U.S. equivalent bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
  3. Prior Marketing or IMC-related coursework (such as Advertising, Promotional Strategy, Public Relations etc.) at the undergraduate or graduate level; or professional experience in a marketing or IMC-related area is required. Experience gained from internship, full or part-time work in IMC -related areas will be considered.
  4. at least a 2.75 cumulative undergraduate GPA.
  5. Submit official transcripts from every undergraduate and graduate institution attended.
  6. Submit a résumé of relevant work experience.
  7. Submit an IMC application essay (see below).
  8. Submit two professional letters of recommendation.
  9. Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting an official score report from either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Test System (IELTS), or the Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB). Scores must be sent by the testing service directly to the University.

Please note: GRE or GMAT scores are not required for admission into the IMC program. However, if you’ve taken one of the exams you may choose to submit scores as they may enhance an applicant’s review.

IMC Application Essay

  • Please indicate your view of the role of integrated marketing communications at either your current employer or at any organization of your choice.
  • State how you think knowledge gained from the program at Eastern Michigan University will facilitate the accomplishment of the organization’s objectives. The essay should be 300-500 words.

Application

You can apply online or by submitting your printed application, résumé, transcripts, essay and application fee to:

Office of Admissions
Eastern Michigan University
P.O. Box 970 Ypsilanti, MI 48197-7621

Please note: If you apply online you may submit your essay and résumé either by mail to the address above or via e-mail to documents_admissions@emich.edu. All undergraduate transcripts should be mailed to the address above.

Click here to apply!

Department Information:

Marketing - College of Business

Lewis Hershey, Ph.D.
Department Head

469 Owen Building
(734) 487-3323
lhershe1@emich.edu 

Department Website

 

Advisor Information:

Graduate Programs Office

306 Gary M. Owens Building 
(734) 487-4444
cob.graduate@emich.edu

Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications:

Required Courses: 18 hours

Elective Courses: 18 hours

Select six courses from the following:

Program Total: 36 hours

Extended Program:

This graduate program is available at an EMU off-campus location. For a list of locations, please click here .