Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational courses in communication theory and media studies with practical instruction in digital production, writing and strategic communication. Core topics typically include media and society, media law and ethics, research methods for communication, media effects, and persuasion. Practical modules cover multimedia storytelling, audio and video production, digital and social media strategies, visual communication, and media design.

Students usually follow a structured pathway of required cores, elective specialisms and experiential components. Typical components are:

• Foundations: Introduction to Communication, Media Theory, Communication Research Methods, Statistics for Social Science.
• Writing and Reporting: Media Writing, News Reporting, Feature Writing, Copywriting for Advertising and PR.
• Production and Digital Skills: Video Production, Audio Production, Multimedia Storytelling, Digital Media Design, Web and Social Media Content Creation.
• Strategic Communication: Principles of Advertising, Public Relations, Campaign Planning, Strategic Communication Management.
• Law, Ethics and Policy: Media Law and Ethics, Freedom of Expression, Media Policy.
• Experiential learning: Internship or practicum with media organisations, campus media (radio, TV, online), and a senior capstone or portfolio project demonstrating practical competencies.

Many students tailor their studies through electives or concentrations—such as journalism, strategic communication, broadcast production, or digital media—while opportunities for bilingual and cross-cultural courses reflect FIU's Miami context.

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme is through Florida International University's undergraduate admissions process. Applicants are expected to hold a high-school diploma (or equivalent) and to meet the general university admission standard. Typical department expectations include a competitive secondary school record and demonstration of written communication skills.

Additional considerations may include academic transcripts, personal statements or essays that describe interest in media and communication, and participation in relevant extracurricular activities (student media, community reporting, creative portfolios). International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English; bilingual applicants may highlight competence in Spanish or other languages as an asset given the local media market.

Some specialisations or practicum placements may request a short portfolio of media work or coursework samples, but there is no universal mandatory portfolio for admission to the degree itself.

Career prospects

Graduates in Communication and Media Studies from FIU move into a range of roles across media, corporate and public sectors. Common career paths include:

• Journalist, reporter or multimedia producer in print, broadcast or online newsrooms.
• Social media manager, content strategist or digital communications specialist for businesses, NGOs and cultural organisations.
• Public relations or corporate communications practitioner managing media relations and campaigns.
• Advertising account executive, copywriter or media planner working in agencies or in-house marketing teams.
• Broadcast technician, producer or editor in radio and television production environments.
• Researcher or analyst in media research firms, audience measurement and communications consultancy.

The programme’s emphasis on internships, campus media experience and a large metropolitan media ecosystem in Miami helps graduates build professional networks and practical portfolios that employers look for.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University offers this degree within a diverse, bilingual metropolitan setting that is a regional media hub. Studying at FIU gives students access to hands-on resources such as broadcast studios, multimedia labs and faculty with industry experience. The university has connections with local and national media organisations, which supports internships and real-world project work.

FIU’s student media outlets, practicum courses and career services provide structured pathways into internships and entry-level positions. The school’s focus on both theoretical understanding and applied skills prepares students to adapt to a rapidly changing media landscape, including digital, social and multimedia environments.