Oregon State University

What you'll study

The programme blends theoretical study of media and communication with practical, project-based learning. Core topics include media and society, communication theory, media ethics and law, and research methods for communication.

• Media Theory and Analysis — introduction to historical and contemporary approaches to understanding mass and new media, semiotics and audience studies.
• Research Methods — quantitative and qualitative methods, survey design, content analysis and an introduction to statistics for communication research.
• Digital Media Production — hands-on courses in audio and video production, multimedia storytelling, web content and digital editing tools.
• Strategic Communication — public relations, advertising principles, campaign planning, message design and media strategy.
• Social Media and Analytics — platforms, community management, metrics and data-informed content decisions.
• Law and Ethics — media law, copyright, freedom of expression and professional ethics.
• Capstone and Practicum — senior project or internship that synthesises research and applied skills; opportunities to work with community partners or campus media outlets.

Students also complete general education requirements and may choose electives or a concentration in areas such as journalism, digital media production, or organisational communication. The programme emphasises experiential learning through labs, studios, internships and collaborative projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants need a recognised secondary school completion or equivalent. Successful candidates typically present a strong academic record along with preparation in English and social studies. Admissions may consider beyond-transcript materials such as a personal statement, example writing or media work, and evidence of extracurricular experience.

• Academic preparation — coursework in English, writing, and social sciences recommended.
• Language proficiency — international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency by accepted tests or prior study in English, where required.
• Other materials — a personal statement, résumé and optional portfolio (for production-focused concentrations) can strengthen an application.

Transfer students may apply with college coursework; specific credit transfer and prerequisite requirements are evaluated as part of admission and advising.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of media and communication roles across private, public and non-profit sectors. The combination of analytical and practical skills makes alumni competitive for positions that require both creative content development and strategic planning.

• Content creator, digital producer or multimedia journalist
• Public relations officer, communications coordinator or corporate communications specialist
• Social media manager or community strategist
• Advertising account executive or media planner
• Audience researcher, data analyst for media or market research firms
• Internal communications or stakeholder engagement roles in organisations and NGOs
• Pathways to graduate study in communication, media studies, journalism, business or law

Why study at Oregon State University

Oregon State is a comprehensive public research university with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. The programme offers access to production facilities, labs and opportunities to work with community partners and campus media, enabling students to build professional portfolios before graduation.

Students benefit from faculty who combine research expertise with industry experience, advising and internship connections in the region, and university career services that support placement and professional development. The Corvallis campus provides a focused learning environment while remaining well connected to media and creative industries across Oregon and the broader Pacific Northwest.