St. John's University

What you'll study

This programme blends foundations in communication theory with practical training in public relations, advertising and applied media. You will study core topics such as:

• Principles of Public Relations — history, functions and role of PR in organisations.
• Advertising and Brand Communication — creative development, media planning and campaign strategy.
• Strategic Communication and Campaign Planning — research, audience segmentation, objectives, tactics and evaluation.
• Media Writing and Content Creation — news, press releases, feature writing, copywriting for different platforms.
• Digital and Social Media — social strategy, content calendars, influencer engagement and community management.
• Media Law, Ethics and Professional Practice — legal responsibilities, ethical standards and regulatory issues for communicators.
• Research Methods and Analytics — quantitative and qualitative research, media metrics and campaign evaluation.
• Production Skills — multimedia storytelling, audio/video production and basic design tools used in advertising and PR.
• Practicum / Internship — credit-bearing placement with an agency, corporation or nonprofit to apply classroom learning in a professional setting.
• Capstone Project — a culminating campaign or portfolio project that demonstrates strategic thinking and applied skills.

The curriculum typically combines general education requirements with major-specific courses, electives that allow specialisation (for example digital media, crisis communication or nonprofit communication), and experiential learning through internships and client-based projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or recognised secondary qualification. Admissions typically consider a combination of the following:

• A competitive secondary school GPA or equivalent academic record.
• Standardised test scores where required or submitted (SAT/ACT policies may vary).
• A personal statement or essay that explains your interest in communication and relevant experience.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or other referees familiar with your academic or extracurricular strengths.
• For transfer applicants, college transcripts and a record of successful completion of introductory coursework.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted exams or qualifications.

Successful candidates typically show strong written and oral communication skills, an interest in media and current affairs, and some evidence of extracurricular or practical engagement (student media, clubs, volunteer work, internships or relevant part‑time employment).

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles in communications, advertising and media. Common entry‑level and mid‑career paths include:

• Public relations practitioner or account executive in PR agencies.
• Advertising account coordinator, media planner or copywriter.
• Social media manager, content strategist or digital communications specialist.
• Corporate communications or internal communications officer.
• Brand manager, marketing communications specialist or event coordinator.
• Nonprofit communications director, fundraising communications or community engagement roles.
• Media relations specialist and crisis communications consultant.
• Further study options such as master's degrees in communication, marketing or business for those aiming at senior management roles.

The programme’s emphasis on practical experience and a professional portfolio helps graduates demonstrate skills sought by employers across agencies, in‑house corporate teams and nonprofit organisations.

Why study at St. John's University

St. John’s offers the advantage of being located in the New York City area, providing direct access to agencies, media companies and corporate communications departments for internships and networking. The university combines classroom teaching from faculty with industry experience and opportunities for hands‑on learning through placements, student media and client projects.

Small classes in upper‑level courses allow personalised feedback on writing, campaign planning and multimedia work, while career services and an active alumni network support students in finding internships and graduate roles. St. John’s also emphasises ethical practice and cultural competency in communication, preparing graduates to work in diverse professional settings.