Marywood University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme blends communication theory with applied skills in public relations, advertising and multimedia production. Core study areas include media writing and editing, public relations principles, advertising strategy, audience research, digital and social media campaigns, visual communication and multimedia production. Students also study communication law and ethics, persuasion and messaging, crisis communication and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

Typical modules and learning experiences you can expect:

• Introduction to Communication and Media
• Media Writing and Editing for PR and Advertising
• Principles of Public Relations
• Advertising Strategy and Creative Development
• Social Media Strategy and Content Creation
• Visual Communication and Basic Design for Communicators
• Research Methods for Communication Practice
• Crisis Communication and Reputation Management
• Communication Law and Ethics
• Multimedia Production (audio, video and digital storytelling)
• Strategic Campaign Planning and Implementation
• Senior Capstone Project demonstrating an integrated campaign or portfolio

The programme emphasises experiential learning: lab courses in the university’s media facilities, client-based projects, campus media involvement and a required internship or practicum that gives professional experience and industry contacts.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school certificate or equivalent. Typical expectations include a solid academic record across a range of subjects and evidence of written and verbal communication skills. Marywood welcomes first-year applicants, transfer students and adult learners.

Application materials commonly requested:

• Official secondary school transcripts (and college transcripts for transfer applicants)
• Personal statement or essay outlining interest in communication and career goals
• Letters of recommendation (often one academic and one personal or professional)
• Portfolio or samples of written work or multimedia projects may be requested or recommended for applicants with relevant experience

Marywood evaluates applications holistically; standardised test submission policies and specific GPA thresholds vary, so prospective students should consult the university’s admission office for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles across public relations, advertising, marketing and digital communication. Common entry-level positions include public relations assistant, communications coordinator, social media specialist, content writer/copywriter, account coordinator at an advertising agency and event/marketing assistant.

With experience, alumni move into roles such as media relations manager, brand or content strategist, advertising account executive, corporate communications manager, nonprofit development/communications director, digital marketing manager and crisis communications consultant. The degree also provides a solid foundation for graduate study in communication, marketing, journalism or business.

The programme’s emphasis on applied projects and internships supports direct employer connections and helps students build professional portfolios and networks in regional agencies, corporations, media outlets and nonprofit organisations.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a small-campus environment with small class sizes that support close faculty mentorship and personalised feedback on writing and media projects. The university’s communication facilities and media labs provide students with hands-on access to multimedia production tools and practicum opportunities.

Students benefit from Marywood’s community-focused ethos and connections with local and regional organisations for internships and client projects. The programme integrates service-learning and ethical practice, preparing graduates to communicate responsibly across sectors. Career services, alumni networks and partnerships with area agencies help students translate classroom experience into employment.

Overall, Marywood’s combination of liberal-arts grounding, professional skills training and experiential learning is suited to students seeking a practical, career-oriented degree in public relations, advertising and applied communication.