COURSE CURRICULUM

The Social Media Management program at Northwest Missouri State University includes 57 credit hours of required courses that are carefully designed to develop both creative and professional skills in digital media. The program begins with foundational subjects such as Fundamentals of Electronic Media Production, Professional Media Writing, and Media Literacy, which help students understand how media content is created and how it influences audiences. Courses like Video Production and Media Design introduce students to visual storytelling and design techniques that are essential for creating engaging content across social media platforms.As students advance, they gain knowledge in marketing and communication through courses like Introduction to Advertising, Principles of Marketing, and Social Media Marketing. These courses focus on promoting brands, planning campaigns, and understanding consumer behavior. In addition, Public Relations Techniques, Principles of Public Relations, and Propaganda and Persuasion teach students how to manage a brand’s image, communicate effectively with audiences, and influence public perception.The curriculum also emphasizes technical and analytical skills. Courses such as Introduction to Web Publishing, Social Media Strategies, and UX and Analytics prepare students to manage digital platforms, track performance, and improve user engagement. Photojournalism further strengthens students’ ability to tell stories through images, which is a key aspect of modern social media content.Students have the option to study Communication Theory or Theories of Mass Communication to deepen their understanding of how messages are delivered and interpreted. A required internship provides practical, hands-on experience in a professional setting, helping students build real-world skills and industry connections. Additional special topics courses allow students to explore new trends and emerging areas in social media. To graduate, students can take free electives to reach a total of 120 credit hours. Overall, the program prepares students for careers in social media management, digital marketing, and online brand communication.