University of Southern Indiana

What you'll study

This degree combines theory, applied skills and professional practice in public relations, advertising and strategic communication. Core topics include principles of public relations and advertising, strategic message design, media writing and editing, digital and social media strategies, audience research and media analytics, ethics and media law, and campaign planning. Practical elements typically include a practicum or internship, a research methods course, and a senior capstone or campaign project that requires students to develop and present a real-world communication plan.

Typical modules and subjects you can expect:

• Introduction to Mass Communication and Media Systems
• Public Relations Principles and Practice
• Advertising Principles and Creative Strategy
• Media Writing: News, Press Releases and Content Creation
• Digital and Social Media Strategy
• Strategic Communication Campaigns (planning, budgeting and evaluation)
• Research Methods for Communication (qualitative and quantitative techniques)
• Media Law and Ethics
• Media Production and Digital Content Tools (audio, video and web basics)
• Internship/Practicum and Senior Capstone Project

Programme structure

The programme follows a combination of general education requirements and major-specific coursework, typically taken over four years of full-time study. Early years focus on foundational communication concepts and writing skills; upper-level courses emphasise specialised topics, applied projects and professional practicum experiences. Students often have opportunities to work with community clients, collaborate on cross-disciplinary projects, and build a portfolio of professional work.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions decisions are based on a holistic review of academic achievement, recommended coursework (strong performance in English and other humanities or social science subjects is helpful), and personal statement. US-based applicants typically present a satisfactory cumulative high school record; transfer students are assessed on college-level coursework completed. Standardised test submission policies may be flexible or test-optional—check the university’s undergraduate admissions pages for current guidance. Applicants may also be asked to submit a short writing sample or portfolio that demonstrates written communication and critical thinking skills.

International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements and provide equivalent secondary school credentials. Mature and non-traditional applicants with relevant work experience are considered and may be able to credit prior learning through transfer or experiential pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a wide range of communication roles across sectors. Common career destinations include:

• Public relations specialist or account executive
• Advertising copywriter, media planner or account manager
• Corporate communications or internal communications coordinator
• Social media manager and content strategist
• Community and nonprofit outreach coordinator
• Event and promotions manager
• Media researcher, analyst or communications consultant

The applied nature of the degree, with practicum and internship opportunities, helps students build a professional portfolio and network with local, regional and national employers. Graduates also pursue postgraduate study in communication, marketing, business or public affairs when they seek advanced research, teaching or senior management roles.

Why study at University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana offers a compact campus environment with relatively small class sizes, enabling direct access to faculty who combine academic and industry experience. The programme emphasises experiential learning—students gain practical skills through internships, applied projects and a senior capstone—so graduates leave with tangible work samples and employer contacts. The university’s career services and departmental advising support professional development, internship placement and networking with community partners across the region. For students who want a career-focused communication degree with strong opportunities for hands-on practice, the University of Southern Indiana provides a practical pathway into public relations, advertising and applied communication.