Simmons University

What you'll study

The programme blends media theory, research methods and applied communication skills. You will study how media shape public discourse and learn practical techniques for producing content across platforms.

• Core topics: media and society; media law and ethics; communication theory; media research methods.
• Production and skills: multimedia storytelling; digital video and audio production; social media strategy; visual communication and design; data visualisation and basic data journalism techniques.
• Professional communication: public relations and strategic communication; advertising and persuasion; corporate and organisational communication; crisis communication.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior capstone or independent project integrating research and production, plus a required internship or practicum placement with local media, nonprofits, or businesses.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: students may take electives in journalism, gender and media, documentary studies, film studies, or related disciplines across the liberal arts curriculum.

Entry requirements

Admission to the undergraduate programme is on the basis of a completed secondary-school qualification equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma, with evidence of strong academic performance and a demonstrated interest in media or communication. Applicants typically submit transcripts, a personal statement, and one or more letters of recommendation. Portfolios or samples of written or multimedia work are recommended (and may be required by applicants seeking placement in production-focused course streams).

International applicants must present recognised secondary credentials and evidence of English language proficiency where required. The university considers each application holistically, including extracurricular experience, internships, and relevant volunteer work.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a broad range of roles across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Typical entry-level positions include:

• journalist or reporter, multimedia producer, or podcast producer
• public relations or communications coordinator, media relations specialist
• social media manager or content strategist
• communications specialist for NGOs, healthcare organisations or educational institutions
• marketing or advertising assistant; digital communications analyst
• research assistant, audience researcher, or roles in media policy and advocacy

The curriculum also prepares students for postgraduate study in media studies, communication, journalism, public relations or related fields. The programme emphasises internship experience and professional networking to support graduate employability.

Why study at Simmons University

Simmons provides a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, allowing in-depth discussion of media’s cultural and ethical dimensions alongside practical studio work. Located in Boston, the university offers proximity to major media organisations, nonprofit headquarters and start-up ecosystems that support internship placements and employer partnerships.

Students benefit from hands-on facilities and resources for multimedia production, an emphasis on experiential learning and career preparation, and opportunities to combine media studies with complementary majors or minors. The department’s focus on ethical practice, inclusive storytelling, and research-driven learning prepares graduates to navigate a rapidly changing media landscape.