Cost & earnings at Pittsburg State University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor’s in Communication and Media Studies at Pittsburg State University combines theory, practical production and strategic communication to prepare students for careers across journalism, broadcasting, public relations and digital media. It suits students who want hands-on experience producing media content, analysing media effects and developing communication campaigns for organisations and audiences.
This programme blends core communication theory with practical media production and applied skills. Typical topics include interpersonal and organisational communication, mass communication theory, media ethics and law, research methods, and media effects. Practical modules cover audio and video production, digital media and web publishing, multimedia storytelling, social media strategy, and visual communication. Students often select electives or concentrations in areas such as broadcast journalism, public relations and advertising, digital content production, or media analytics.
Programme structure usually combines general education requirements with major-specific coursework and a capstone experience. Many students complete a practicum or internship with local or regional media outlets, marketing departments or nonprofit organisations, and undertake a senior project or portfolio that demonstrates both critical analysis and production skills.
Admission to the bachelor’s programme requires a secondary school diploma or equivalent and meeting Pittsburg State University’s general undergraduate admissions criteria. Applicants should provide official transcripts and any required supporting documentation. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives if English is not their first language.
While specific entry thresholds such as GPA or test scores may vary, competitive applicants will typically have completed coursework in English and social studies; experience in media production, writing or extracurricular communication activities can strengthen an application. Transfer students must submit college transcripts and may receive credit for prior relevant coursework or approved experiential learning.
Graduates from Communication and Media Studies go on to a wide range of careers where skills in writing, storytelling, media production and strategy are valued. Common roles include:
Alumni also pursue postgraduate study in media research, journalism, strategic communication or related fields, and many build portfolios that support freelance work in video, podcasting and digital content creation. The practical focus of the programme aims to make graduates employable in regional media markets as well as national and remote roles.
Pittsburg State offers a teaching environment with relatively small class sizes and accessible faculty who combine academic expertise with professional media experience. The university supports hands-on learning through media production labs, student-run outlets and internship connections with local broadcasters, newspapers and organisations, allowing students to build real-world portfolios while studying.
Students benefit from a comprehensive communication curriculum that balances theory and practice, mentorship from faculty, and opportunities to engage in campus media and community projects. The programme emphasises workplace-ready skills in production, digital communication and strategic messaging that prepare graduates for a variety of media and communication careers.
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