Boise State University

What you'll study

This programme blends core communication theory with production practice and research methods. Typical course topics include media and society, mass communication theory, media ethics and law, visual storytelling, audio and video production, digital and social media strategies, public relations and advertising principles, and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

• Core communication theory and media history to situate contemporary media practices.
• Production courses covering camera operation, editing, sound design and multiplatform publishing.
• Digital media courses on social media strategy, web content development and analytics.
• Applied classes in journalism, documentary production, public relations campaigns and advertising creative.
• Research methods and statistics for conducting audience studies and media effects research.
• Capstone project or practicum in which students produce a substantial media project or complete an industry placement.

Students typically combine required core modules with elective concentrations or minors, and are encouraged to build a portfolio of work through campus media outlets, lab courses and internships.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma. Admission commonly considers academic performance (GPA), a personal statement outlining interest in media and communication, and a record of relevant extracurricular activity or experience.

• Completion of general secondary education with coursework in English and, where available, media, communications or arts subjects.
• A personal statement or essay demonstrating interest in media production, journalism, public relations or communication research.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or professionals may strengthen an application.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS) is required.
• Some production tracks or scholarships may request a short portfolio or work samples (video links, writing samples, audio pieces) but a portfolio is not universally required for admission to the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a mix of practical production skills, strategic communication knowledge and research literacy that prepare them for roles across media industries, public and private sectors, and nonprofit organisations.

• Content producer, multimedia journalist or digital reporter for online, broadcast or local news outlets.
• Social media manager, digital marketer or content strategist for companies, agencies and startups.
• Public relations practitioner or communications specialist in corporate, government or nonprofit settings.
• Producer, editor or technical operator in television, radio and streaming media operations.
• Media researcher, audience analyst or roles in media planning and advertising.
• Entrepreneurial opportunities creating independent content, podcasts, branded media or working as a freelance creator/consultant.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State offers an applied approach to media education with opportunities for hands‑on learning and local industry engagement. Students can gain practical experience through campus media outlets and production labs, work on interdisciplinary projects, and pursue internships with regional newspapers, broadcasters and digital companies in the Boise metro area.

• Emphasis on experiential learning and portfolio development to make graduates job‑ready.
• Access to faculty with professional experience in journalism, production and strategic communication.
• Opportunities to collaborate with student media and community partners in a growing urban centre with an active technology and creative sector.
• Support services for career development, internships and alumni connections that help transition students into entry‑level media and communication roles.