Ursinus College

What you'll study

The programme blends critical study of media with practical training in digital and traditional communication forms. Core topics typically include media theory and history, digital media and social platforms, media ethics and law, communication research methods, and visual storytelling.

• Foundations: introductions to communication theory, media history, and contemporary media systems.
• Production and practice: courses in audio and video production, multimedia storytelling, editing, and digital content creation; hands-on workshops teach industry-standard tools and workflows.
• Applied communication: classes in public relations, advertising, strategic communication, and social media strategy that focus on message design and audience analysis.
• Research and analysis: quantitative and qualitative research methods, media effects, audience studies and data-informed communication planning.
• Capstone and experiential learning: senior seminars, practicum courses and internship placements that allow students to produce a substantial project or complete work experience in a media or communications setting.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: students can take elective modules in related fields such as sociology, political science, theatre, or digital arts to tailor their degree to specific interests.

Entry requirements

Ursinus College seeks applicants who demonstrate academic readiness and interest in liberal arts study. Typical entry expectations include a completed secondary school diploma or equivalent, a strong record in English and humanities coursework, and evidence of critical thinking and communication skills.

• Academic transcript showing steady performance in secondary education.
• Supplementary materials such as a personal statement describing interest in media/communication and any relevant experience, and letters of recommendation.
• Some applicants submit a portfolio or samples of written, audio or visual work if they have relevant production experience; this may strengthen an application for production-focused courses.
• Standardised test submission policies vary; consult the admissions office for current guidance on tests and English language requirements for international applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates of Communication and Media Studies are well placed for a variety of entry-level roles across the media and communication sectors and for further study. The degree emphasises transferable skills such as writing, critical analysis, media production, research and strategic thinking.

• Careers in public relations, corporate communications, social media management and content strategy.
• Roles in journalism, digital publishing, podcasting and multimedia storytelling.
• Positions in marketing, advertising, audience development and brand management.
• Opportunities in media production, broadcast support, video editing and audio engineering.
• Further study options include graduate degrees in communication, media studies, digital journalism, law or business.

Why study at Ursinus College

Ursinus offers a liberal arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which supports personalised learning and collaborative projects. The college emphasises experiential learning — students gain practical experience through internships, practicum courses and independent research.

• Access to hands-on coursework and project-based learning that prepares students for real-world media work.
• Faculty who combine scholarly expertise with practical experience in communication and media.
• Opportunities to pursue interdisciplinary study across the arts and social sciences to broaden perspectives and skills.
• Strong career support and connections to regional media organisations and internships that help students transition into employment or graduate study.