University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This programme blends communication theory with hands-on practice across public relations, advertising and applied communication. You will study message design, campaign planning, media writing, audience research, and digital content production while developing critical thinking about ethics and strategic communication.

• Core communication theory: foundations of interpersonal, organisational and mass communication.
• Media and writing skills: news and feature writing, public relations writing, copywriting for advertising, and multimedia storytelling for digital platforms.
• Strategic practice: campaign planning, brand management, media relations, crisis communication and integrated marketing communications.
• Research and analytics: qualitative and quantitative research methods, audience analysis, media measurement and evaluation of campaign effectiveness.
• Production and technology: digital content creation, social media strategies, basic graphic design principles and use of industry-standard tools for audio/visual content.
• Experiential learning: practicum projects, client-based campaigns, internships and a capstone or portfolio project demonstrating applied competence.

The programme typically includes general education requirements plus major-specific courses and electives that allow you to tailor your studies toward advertising, organisational communication, social media, or nonprofit and public-sector communication.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have successfully completed secondary education or equivalent. Entry is based on a combination of academic record and required documentation; prospective students are usually expected to demonstrate competence in written English. Recommended preparatory subjects include English/composition, social studies, and introductory media or business courses where available.

Transfer applicants should present official college transcripts and meet any departmental transfer-credit policies. International applicants must provide proof of secondary-school completion equivalent to the domestic credential and evidence of English language proficiency when applicable.

The department values demonstrated interest in communication through extracurricular activities, a short portfolio of writing or media work, or relevant volunteer/employment experience, although specific portfolio requirements vary and can be discussed with the programme adviser.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme enter a wide range of communication roles across sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Public relations specialist or account executive in PR agencies
• Advertising copywriter, media planner or account manager
• Social media manager and content strategist for brands and organisations
• Corporate communications or internal communications professional
• Media relations and public affairs roles in government and non-profits
• Event coordinator and community engagement specialist
• Freelance communication consultant, copywriter or digital producer

The programme’s emphasis on applied projects and internships prepares graduates to enter entry- to mid-level communication positions and to progress into managerial roles with additional experience.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a programme grounded in applied learning, with opportunities for internships and client-based projects that connect students to regional and national employers. Small class sizes allow direct faculty mentoring, and instructors include scholars and practitioners with experience in public relations and advertising.

Students can build real-world skills through student media, practicum placements and local industry partnerships, and compile a professional portfolio before graduation. University career services and departmental advising support job-search preparation, internship placement and continued professional development.