Roger Williams University

What you'll study

This programme combines theory and hands-on practice to prepare students for careers in public relations, advertising and related communication fields. Core study areas include media and message theory, research methods, ethics and media law, and strategic planning. Practical modules develop skills in media writing, copywriting, content creation, social media strategy, visual communication, multimedia production and analytics.

• Foundations: introduction to public relations and advertising, communication theory, media literacy, and research methods.
• Writing & Production: press writing, feature and copywriting, broadcast and multimedia production, web and social media content creation.
• Strategy & Planning: campaign planning and execution, branding, audience analysis, media buying and placement, crisis communication.
• Law, Ethics & Professional Practice: media law, ethics in communication, issues in public affairs and corporate social responsibility.
• Applied Learning: practicum or client-based projects, internship placement with local agencies or organisations, and a senior capstone or portfolio project.
• Electives & Specialisms: courses in digital analytics, visual design, event promotion, nonprofit communications, politics and public affairs, and cross-disciplinary options across business and the arts.

Students build a professional portfolio throughout the programme and typically complete at least one supervised internship to gain real-world experience. Small class sizes emphasise collaborative projects, critiques and faculty mentoring.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school qualification appropriate to their country (for example, a high school diploma, GCE A‑levels or the International Baccalaureate) with a strong academic record and evidence of written and verbal communication ability. Typical preparation includes coursework in English/language arts; background in media, art, or business is helpful but not essential.

• Domestic applicants: completed secondary school with a record of academic achievement and a personal statement outlining interest in communication.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualification, proof of English language proficiency where required, and documentation of academic records translated into English.
• Additional materials: some applicants submit a short portfolio of writing or media work and a résumé; letters of recommendation can strengthen an application. Mature or transfer students should provide college transcripts and an outline of prior relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles in public relations, advertising, marketing and communications across commercial, nonprofit and public sectors. Career paths commonly include:

• Public relations practitioner (media relations, corporate communications, community relations)
• Advertising account executive, copywriter or media planner
• Social media manager, content strategist or digital marketing specialist
• Event and promotions coordinator, brand manager or sponsorship manager
• Communications specialist in government, higher education, healthcare or nonprofit organisations
• Consultant in reputation management, crisis communications or public affairs

Graduates also often progress to graduate study in communication, business, marketing, media studies or law. The programme’s emphasis on internships and portfolios supports early career entry and practical skill demonstration to employers.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University offers a small-campus environment with an emphasis on experiential learning and close faculty mentorship. The programme sits within a communication-focused curriculum that integrates media production facilities and opportunities for client-based projects and internships in the Providence–Boston region.

• Hands-on learning through practicum courses, student media outlets and supervised internships.
• Access to multimedia labs and equipment for audio, video and digital content production.
• Opportunities to collaborate with local agencies, nonprofits and businesses for real client work.
• Support services including career advising, internship placement and faculty mentoring to build a professional portfolio and transition to employment.

The programme is designed for students who want a practical, career-oriented education in contemporary communication practices with the opportunity to specialise through electives and real-world experience.