Salisbury University

What you'll study

This programme combines hands-on media production with courses in media history, theory and research methods. Full-time students typically complete a broad core of foundation courses before choosing electives and a production or strategic communication concentration.

Core themes and typical modules

• Media Theory and History: introductions to mass communication theory, media history and cultural approaches to media.
• Digital and Interactive Media: web design and development basics, digital storytelling, social media strategy and analytics.
• Production Skills: audio and video production, studio and field production, editing, visual communication and multimedia portfolio development.
• Writing and Public Communication: media writing, broadcast journalism, public relations writing and persuasive communication.
• Media Law, Ethics and Policy: fundamentals of media law, ethical decision-making and regulatory contexts.
• Research Methods: qualitative and quantitative research methods for media studies, audience research and content analysis.
• Capstone and Experiential Learning: senior capstone projects, internships with media organisations, or practicum placements that build a professional portfolio.

Students can expect a mix of lectures, seminar discussion, laboratory workshops and supervised production projects. Assessment commonly includes practical projects, written assignments, group work and research papers.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical offers are based on academic achievement in secondary qualifications; specific subject requirements are not usually mandatory but an applicant with coursework in English, communication or arts is well prepared. Salisbury University considers transfer applicants with college-level credits.

International applicants must meet Salisbury University’s requirements for international admission, including demonstration of English language proficiency through accepted tests or qualifications unless exempt. Applicants for production-focused pathways may be asked to submit a short portfolio or examples of creative work, though many students begin without prior media experience.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across media, communications and related industries. Common career paths include:

• Content producer or multimedia producer for digital platforms
• Social media manager or digital strategist for organisations and agencies
• Broadcast production roles such as producer, editor or camera operator
• Public relations, communications officer or corporate communications specialist
• Journalism roles in reporting, news writing and newsroom production
• Marketing communications, copywriting and brand storytelling
• Research and audience analysis, media planning and consultancy

Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in media studies, journalism, public relations, education or law. The programme’s emphasis on internships and a professional portfolio supports employability in regional media outlets, cultural organisations and corporate communications teams.

Why study at Salisbury University

Salisbury University offers small class sizes and a supportive learning environment where students gain direct access to faculty with academic and professional media experience. The department emphasises experiential learning — students work in production labs, use industry-standard equipment and complete internship placements with media organisations across the Delmarva and mid-Atlantic region.

The university’s location gives students proximity to a range of media employers, public agencies and cultural institutions, while campus facilities support both hands-on production and critical study. Advising and career services help students build portfolios, secure internships and transition into the workplace or postgraduate study.