Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational courses in communication theory and research with practical training in media production, strategic campaign planning and digital communication. Students complete a mixture of general education requirements, core communication courses and elective options that allow specialisation in areas such as public relations, advertising, social media strategy or multimedia production.

• Core topics: introduction to public relations and advertising, principles of strategic communication, media writing and message design, mass media and society.
• Research and strategy: qualitative and quantitative research methods for communication, audience analysis, campaign planning and evaluation.
• Digital and media skills: social media strategy, content creation for digital platforms, visual communication, multimedia storytelling and basic production skills (audio/video/editing).
• Professional practice: ethics and media law, crisis communication, account management, client relations and portfolio development.
• Capstone and experiential learning: supervised internships with agencies, corporations or non‑profits and a capstone project or practicum that synthesises planning, implementation and evaluation of a real campaign.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a secondary school completion or equivalent. Admissions normally consider academic records, the strength of the overall application and communication‑focused coursework. Recommended preparation includes courses in English, writing, social studies and media or arts subjects.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved institutional alternatives. Some programmes may request a writing sample, personal statement or résumé to assess communication skills and fit for the applied focus of the degree. Specific admissions conditions and any transfer credit policies are available from the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across agencies, corporations, non‑profits and government. Typical job titles include:

• Public relations specialist or account executive
• Social media manager and content strategist
• Advertising account coordinator or media planner
• Corporate communications or internal communications officer
• Brand or marketing communications specialist
• Community or stakeholder engagement coordinator

Alumni also progress to specialised roles in digital analytics, crisis communications, media relations, and creative departments, or continue to postgraduate study in communication, marketing, business or law.

Why study at Florida International University

FIU’s location in Miami provides direct access to a diverse, international media market and numerous internship and employment opportunities across advertising and public relations agencies, multinational corporations and cultural organisations. The school emphasises applied learning through industry‑standard media labs, production facilities and community partnerships, and supports student professional development via student chapters of industry associations, portfolio review events and career services.

Faculty combine scholarly expertise with professional experience, helping students develop both the strategic thinking and practical skills employers expect. The programme’s multicultural environment also prepares graduates to communicate across audiences and global markets.