Cost & earnings at Pace University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor’s in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at Pace University prepares students to design and deliver strategic communication across traditional and digital platforms. It suits students who want a mix of theory and hands-on practice, particularly those seeking access to New York City internships and careers in media, corporate communications or advertising.
This undergraduate programme combines core communication theory with practical skills in public relations, advertising and applied communication. You will study subjects such as public relations principles, advertising strategy, media writing and storytelling, digital and social media communications, visual communication, research methods, campaign planning and evaluation, ethics and communication law.
Programme structure typically includes foundation courses in communication theory, a sequence of major-specific modules, elective options to specialise (for example in social media, journalism or marketing), and a culminating capstone or practicum project. Applied learning is emphasised through hands-on classes where students create press campaigns, advertising briefs, social media strategies and multimedia content.
Students are encouraged to gain professional experience through internships with agencies, corporate communications departments, non-profit organisations and media outlets. Many courses include client-based projects or collaborations with local organisations, and students can access campus media labs and production facilities to develop portfolios.
Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Pace University considers academic records, a personal statement or essay, and at least one academic reference. For some applicants, a resume or portfolio of relevant work (writing samples, multimedia pieces, campaign projects) may strengthen an application.
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency; commonly accepted evidence includes scores from recognised English tests or other documentation of prior study in English. Transfer applicants should submit college or university transcripts and may receive credit for previously completed coursework. Admissions may also consider extracurricular experience in media, volunteer communications roles or relevant employment.
Graduates enter a variety of communication-focused roles across sectors. Common career paths include public relations practitioner, account executive at a PR or advertising agency, social media or community manager, corporate communications specialist, media relations coordinator, content strategist, copywriter, brand or marketing communications associate, event and promotions manager, and nonprofit communications officer.
Alumni also move into specialised areas such as crisis communications, investor relations, digital analytics and influencer marketing, or continue to postgraduate study in communication, media studies, marketing or related fields. The programme’s focus on internships and real-world projects helps build professional networks and portfolios that employers value.
Pace’s campuses provide direct access to New York City’s media, advertising and public relations industries, offering abundant internship and networking opportunities with agencies, corporations and media organisations. The programme emphasises experiential learning: students work on client projects, undertake internships and use campus production and digital labs to develop practical skills.
Smaller class sizes allow close faculty mentorship, and the university promotes interdisciplinary collaboration across business, arts and technology programmes. Career services, alumni connections and employer partnerships support students in securing internships and graduate roles, while the programme’s applied curriculum helps graduates enter the workforce with a professional portfolio and hands-on experience.
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