COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in Public Relations and Advertising at DePaul University is a 48‑credit graduate program that blends core courses with electives to prepare students as strategic communicators in public relations, advertising, and integrated marketing fields. The curriculum requires six core courses totaling 24 credit hours, which provide foundational expertise in key areas such as writing for communications careers, advertising and public relations principles, communication ethics and law, and research methods and data insights. Students may also choose between a professional development course in personal branding and career strategies or the option to complete a research thesis with approval. In addition to these core requirements, students select six elective courses (24 credit hours) from a wide range of topics that allow them to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. Electives include advanced courses in consumer insights, engaging Latinx communities, crisis communication management, integrated communication campaigns, advertising and copywriting, digital communication in a global context, media planning, business skills for strategic communicators, communication campaigns for social change, PR/AD agency roles and responsibilities, and special topics in public relations and advertising. Other elective options include internships, independent study, research practicum, or study abroad experiences, all of which offer hands‑on learning opportunities. Throughout the curriculum, students build practical skills in research, strategy development, creative communication, and evaluation of media and audience insights, equipping them to design and implement effective communication campaigns across digital, social, and traditional platforms. To complete the degree, students submit a comprehensive professional portfolio that showcases their work and strategic competencies, often presented at an annual portfolio showcase where they network with industry professionals. This combination of rigorous coursework, customizable electives, and real‑world experience prepares graduates to become skilled, socially responsible, and globally conscious communication professionals ready for careers in public relations, advertising, and related industries.