COURSE CURRICULUM

The B.A. in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations and Digital Media is a 121-credit undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in strategic communication, public relations, digital media production, and integrated marketing communication. The program combines a 40-credit University Core Curriculum focused on foundational academic skills such as written communication, global and intercultural awareness, multimedia communication, and creative arts perspectives with a structured major that emphasizes applied communication practice. Within the major, students complete 33 credits of required coursework that builds a progressive understanding of media systems, public relations theory, and professional communication practice. Early courses such as Understanding Media and Technology and Writing for the Media establish core competencies in media literacy and professional writing, while Fundamentals of Production II and Telling Digital Stories provide hands-on experience in digital content creation. Advanced coursework includes Race, Gender, and Class in Media, Public Relations Principles and Practices, Public Relations Writing, and Communication and Media Campaigns, which together develop the ability to analyze audiences, construct strategic messages, and design effective communication campaigns across multiple platforms. Communication and the Law further ensures students understand legal and ethical frameworks governing media and public relations industries. Students also complete a practicum, internship, or independent study experience, allowing them to apply classroom learning in real-world professional environments. In addition, 15 credits of public relations electives allow specialization in areas such as broadcasting, media ethics, live and digital event production, professional communication, and special topics in communication studies. The program outcomes emphasize the ability to complete increasingly complex communication projects, use industry-standard tools and technologies, design targeted print and digital media products through audience analysis, and produce effective marketing and informational materials tailored to specific audiences. Graduates are prepared for careers in public relations agencies, corporate communications, digital marketing, media strategy, nonprofit communication, and related fields, with strong skills in writing, campaign planning, media production, and strategic audience engagement across evolving digital platforms.