Alvernia University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme blends theoretical foundations in communication and media studies with applied coursework in digital production, multimedia storytelling and professional communication. You will develop skills in writing, audio and video production, social media strategy, media law and ethics, and research methods.

• Core communication theory and media studies: courses on interpersonal communication, mass communication theory, media effects and cultural studies.
• Practical production modules: instruction in video production, audio production/podcasting, digital photography, editing software and multimedia storytelling techniques.
• Professional communication: public relations, strategic communication, advertising fundamentals and organisational communication.
• Digital and social media: social media strategy, analytics, content management systems and digital campaign planning.
• Research and ethics: media research methods, media law, ethics in journalism and communication ethics grounded in the university's Franciscan values.
• Capstone and internship: a senior capstone project or portfolio and a supervised internship with a media, non‑profit, corporate or public-sector partner to apply classroom learning to workplace settings.

Courses are delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, studio labs and community‑facing projects. Small class sizes allow close faculty mentoring and opportunities to produce work for public audiences and local partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Typical admissions considerations include academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in media and communication, and a recommendation from a teacher or counsellor. Some applicants may be asked to submit a short portfolio of writing, multimedia work or a project sample, though this is not always required.

Transfer students must provide college transcripts for evaluation; prior coursework in communication, media, writing or the arts may be considered for credit. International applicants are required to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications unless exempt.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Communication and Media Studies programme pursue careers across journalism, broadcasting, digital content creation, public relations, marketing, social media management, corporate communications and community engagement. The combination of practical production skills and strategic communication knowledge prepares alumni for roles such as:

• Reporter, editor or multimedia journalist
• Social media or content strategist
• Public relations or communications specialist
• Broadcast production assistant or producer
• Digital media producer or videographer
• Community outreach or nonprofit communications officer

The programme’s internship requirement and local industry links support entry into regional media outlets, agencies and organisations, while the capstone portfolio helps graduates demonstrate practical experience to employers or for postgraduate study.

Why study at Alvernia University

Alvernia offers a learning environment characterised by small classes, close faculty mentorship and an emphasis on ethical practice informed by its Franciscan heritage. Students benefit from hands‑on studio facilities and opportunities to work on real projects and internships with local media and organisations in the Reading and greater Philadelphia areas.

The curriculum is designed to balance theory and practice, preparing students for a changing media landscape with skills in both traditional and digital forms of communication. Career support services, alumni connections and practical portfolio development are integrated into the programme to help graduates transition into the workforce or further study.