University of Wisconsin–Parkside

What you'll study

The Communication and Media Studies curriculum blends foundational coursework in communication theory and media studies with applied training in digital media production, writing and campaign development. Students typically complete core courses in communication theory, media ethics, research methods and interpersonal communication, alongside options or concentrations in areas such as media production, strategic communication (public relations and advertising), digital/social media, journalism and media analysis.

• Core topics: introduction to communication, media and society, communication research methods, media law and ethics, and communication theory.
• Skills and practicum: digital media production (audio/video), multimedia storytelling, web and social media content creation, visual communication, and technical workshops in editing and production workflows.
• Professional practice: courses in public relations, advertising and persuasive communication, campaign planning, and media strategy.
• Electives and capstone: advanced electives in journalism, media criticism, documentary production or political communication, and a senior capstone or practicum project that integrates research and practical work.
• Experiential learning: opportunities for internships, student-run media outlets or production projects, community partnerships and collaborative projects with local organisations.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor's programme is through University of Wisconsin–Parkside's undergraduate admissions process. Typical entry requirements include a completed high-school diploma or equivalent and submission of transcripts. Competitive applicants usually present a solid academic record; the university considers overall GPA, course rigour and other accomplishments.

• Domestic applicants: high-school graduation or equivalent; recommended preparation includes coursework in English/composition and social sciences.
• Transfer applicants: official college transcripts; a minimum cumulative college GPA is generally required for transfer admission (requirements vary by cohort and articulation agreements).
• International applicants: secondary-school completion recognised by the university plus demonstrated English proficiency via accepted tests or qualifications if English is not the first language.
• Additional materials: some students pursuing production- or journalism-focused paths submit a portfolio of writing, audio or video work, although a portfolio is typically optional and not required for general admission.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Communication and Media Studies move into a wide range of entry-level and mid-level roles across public, private and non-profit sectors. The programme emphasises transferable skills—writing, multimedia production, critical analysis and campaign planning—that are in demand across industries.

• Typical roles: social media specialist, content creator, public relations or communications coordinator, copywriter, media researcher, reporter or producer for local media outlets, and marketing assistant.
• Production and creative careers: video/audio producer, multimedia journalist, digital producer or assistant roles in broadcast and online production teams.
• Strategic and research careers: communications strategist, media analyst, brand communications, community engagement officer and campaign coordinator.
• Further study: graduates often pursue postgraduate degrees in communication, media studies, journalism, marketing, public relations or law.

Why study at University of Wisconsin–Parkside

University of Wisconsin–Parkside offers a programme that combines liberal-arts breadth with practical, career-focused training. The campus environment emphasises small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, allowing students to develop personalised portfolios and receive direct feedback on production and research projects.

• Hands-on learning: the programme embeds practical production and digital media coursework so students gain experience with contemporary tools and workflows used in industry.
• Regional connections: proximity to metropolitan media markets supports internship opportunities and professional networking with organisations in the Milwaukee and Chicago areas.
• Supportive pathways: advising, career services and opportunities to get involved in student media or community projects help students build experience and transition into the workforce or graduate study.