Seattle University

What you'll study

The programme balances foundational communication theory with practical skills development across public relations, advertising and applied communication. Core areas include strategic communication planning, persuasive and newsroom writing, media relations, advertising creative and planning, and digital and social media strategy. Students also explore communication research methods, ethics, intercultural communication and integrated marketing communications.

• Foundations of Communication: introduction to communication theory, rhetoric and audience analysis.
• Writing for Media and Public Relations: news writing, press releases, pitching, feature writing and storytelling for different platforms.
• Advertising and Creative Strategy: campaign development, creative concepting, copywriting, visual messaging and brand strategy.
• Digital and Social Media: social media strategy, content creation, analytics, SEO fundamentals and paid media basics.
• Research and Measurement: qualitative and quantitative methods for audience research, campaign evaluation and metrics-driven decision making.
• Ethics, Law and Crisis Communication: media law basics, ethical decision-making, crisis planning and reputation management.
• Applied Projects and Capstone: campaign labs, client-based projects, portfolio development and a final integrative project or practicum.

Students typically engage with hands-on labs and clinics supported by the university and local partners, producing real campaigns, social content and measurement reports. Electives allow deeper focus on areas such as nonprofit communication, political/public affairs communication, multimedia production or data visualisation.

Entry requirements

Seattle University seeks applicants with a strong academic record from secondary school and demonstrated communication potential. Typical application materials include a secondary school transcript, personal statement or essay describing interest in communication, and a resume or portfolio showing writing, media or campaign work. Some applicants may submit letters of recommendation or examples of creative work.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications. Transfer applicants are evaluated on college coursework and may need to meet specific general-education and major prerequisite requirements. Admissions is competitive and considers both academic preparation and evidence of relevant experience or aptitude.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles in agencies, corporations, nonprofits and public-sector organisations. Common career paths include:

• Public relations practitioner or media relations specialist
• Account executive or strategist in advertising and marketing agencies
• Social media manager and digital content strategist
• Corporate communications or internal communications professional
• Crisis communication and reputation management consultant
• Nonprofit communications manager or development communications specialist
• Media planner, copywriter or creative producer
• Roles in public affairs, community engagement and government communications

Many graduates progress to leadership roles in communications, start consultancy practices, or continue to postgraduate study in communication, marketing or business fields. The programme’s emphasis on practicum work and portfolio development supports immediate employability.

Why study at Seattle University

Seattle University is a Jesuit institution with a strong commitment to ethical leadership and social justice, which is woven into communication curricula to prepare graduates for responsible practice. Located in a major media and technology hub, the university offers proximity to PR and advertising agencies, tech firms and nonprofit organisations—facilitating internships, client projects and networking opportunities.

The programme emphasises experiential learning through campaign clinics, applied labs and partnerships with community organisations. Small class sizes allow close faculty mentorship from instructors who combine academic expertise with industry experience. Students also benefit from career services, media labs and opportunities to build a professional portfolio while studying.