Dominican University of California

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational courses in communication theory and media studies with applied classes in journalism, public relations and digital storytelling. Core topics typically include media writing and reporting, multimedia journalism (audio, video and online), media law and ethics, public relations theory and campaign design, visual communication, and research methods for communication.

Students commonly take modules such as:

• News Reporting and Writing — principles of newsgathering, interviewing, concise and accurate writing for print and online.
• Multimedia Production — video and audio production, editing, and publishing for web and social platforms.
• Media Law and Ethics — legal frameworks, First Amendment issues, ethical reporting and responsibilities to communities.
• Public Relations and Strategic Communication — campaign planning, media relations, branding and audience analysis.
• Digital Storytelling and Social Media — content strategy, analytics, audience engagement and platform-specific practices.
• Research Methods in Communication — qualitative and quantitative research, data interpretation and applied research projects.
• Capstone/Internship — a culminating project or supervised internship that integrates classroom learning with professional practice.

Small class sizes permit close faculty mentorship, collaborative workshops and opportunities to work with student media outlets and local organisations. Elective options often allow specialisation in areas such as broadcast journalism, community media, documentary production or strategic communication for non-profits.

Entry requirements

Admission is at undergraduate level and generally requires a high-school diploma or equivalent. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a personal statement or essay outlining interest in communication, and letters of recommendation. Standardised test submission may be optional depending on institutional policy.

Transfer applicants normally need to provide college transcripts and a record of completed general education or introductory communication courses; portfolios or samples of writing and media work can strengthen an application. International applicants are required to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications.

The programme values demonstrated communication skills, creative potential, civic engagement and readiness for hands-on coursework in media production.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of roles across journalism, media and organisational communication. Common career paths include:

• Reporter, feature writer or editor for print, online and broadcast media
• Public relations practitioner, communications officer or media relations specialist
• Social media manager, content strategist or digital communications specialist
• Broadcast or podcast producer, multimedia journalist or video producer
• Communications roles in non-profit, corporate, government or education sectors
• Further study at graduate level in journalism, communication, public affairs or law

Internships and practicum experiences—often arranged with Bay Area media outlets, PR agencies and community organisations—are important stepping stones to employment, helping students build portfolios and professional networks.

Why study at Dominican University of California

Dominican University of California offers a liberal-arts approach to communication with emphasis on ethical practice, civic engagement and social responsibility rooted in the university's mission. The campus’s proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area gives students access to a dynamic media market for internships and collaborative projects.

Students benefit from small seminar-style classes, personalised mentoring from faculty with professional media experience, and access to media production facilities and student-run outlets. The curriculum blends hands-on production, critical analysis and community-based learning, making it well suited to students who want practical skills together with an understanding of media’s role in society.