The Long-Term Value of Networking and Diverse Professional Experience in Online Communication Master’s Cohorts: Strategic Benefits of a Closed-Cohort Structure

Abstract

A survey of alumni from a 10-year-old cohort-based online master’s program in digital communication showed that respondents felt high levels of sense of community both during the program and after graduation. Respondents reported using Facebook and email to interact with members of their cohorts, and other cohorts, and highly valued the ability to network with industry professionals with a diversity of communication experience. However, respondents felt the need for more identity-based diversity among cohort members.