Widener University

What you'll study

This programme blends core communication theory with hands-on media production and professional skills. You will study how media shape public opinion and culture, learn techniques for producing audio, video and digital content, and develop strategic communication abilities for organisations and audiences.

• Core topics: media theory, mass communication, interpersonal and organisational communication, media ethics and media law.
• Practical media skills: multimedia storytelling, audio and video production, digital editing, social media strategy and content creation.
• Professional communication: public relations, advertising, strategic communication, crisis communication and campaign planning.
• Research and methods: qualitative and quantitative research methods, media analysis and audience research.
• Capstone and experiential learning: internship placement, practicum or a senior capstone project that integrates research and production.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: students can usually choose electives in areas such as digital marketing, political communication, documentary production, or courses offered by related departments.

The curriculum is designed to be completed in a four-year structure with general education requirements alongside major coursework, and emphasises small classes, project-based learning and opportunities to build a portfolio of work.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor's programme is through Widener University's undergraduate application process. Typical expectations include successful completion of secondary education or an equivalent qualification, and academic transcripts demonstrating readiness for college-level study.

• Domestic applicants: completion of secondary school qualifications with evidence of academic preparation. The admissions office may consider standardised test scores where provided, but applicants are assessed holistically.
• International applicants: an equivalent secondary school credential and proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests or other university-accepted demonstrations of English ability.
• Portfolio or experience: applicants interested in production-heavy tracks are encouraged to provide a portfolio of relevant work or examples of digital media projects, though this is not always mandatory.
• Transfer students: previous college-level coursework may be considered for transfer credit, subject to review of syllabi and academic records.

As admissions policies can vary, prospective students should consult Widener University's admissions guidance for current details on documentation and processes.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme enter a wide range of roles across media, communications and related industries. The combination of theory, research and applied skills makes alumni attractive to employers seeking creative producers, strategic communicators and analysts who understand contemporary media environments.

• Public relations specialist or communications officer
• Social media or content manager
• Broadcast, video or multimedia producer
• Journalist, reporter or editorial assistant
• Advertising account executive or copywriter
• Corporate communications or internal communications professional
• Media analyst, researcher or market intelligence assistant
• Roles in non-profit communications, government public affairs or campaign management

Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in media studies, journalism, public relations, marketing or related disciplines, or continue professional development through certificate programmes in digital media and analytics.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers an undergraduate environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which benefits students seeking personalised feedback on media projects and research. The university's location in the Philadelphia metropolitan area provides access to regional media outlets, cultural institutions and corporate employers for internships and networking.

• Experiential learning: emphasis on internships, practicum courses and a capstone experience that help build professional portfolios and workplace skills.
• Facilities and resources: access to multimedia labs, editing suites and equipment that support audio, video and digital production coursework.
• Industry connections: ties to employers across the Delaware Valley, enabling internship placements and real-world project collaborations.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: the programme encourages collaboration with departments such as business, theatre and digital arts, allowing students to tailor their studies to career goals.

Overall, Widener's Communication and Media Studies degree is suited to students who want a practical, professionally oriented education grounded in a liberal-arts framework and supported by applied learning opportunities.