Chapman University

What you'll study

The programme combines theory, research and studio-style practice to develop strategic communicators able to work across earned, paid and owned media. Core subject areas include:

• Strategic Public Relations — campaign planning, media relations, stakeholder mapping and crisis communication.
• Advertising and Brand Strategy — creative strategy, account planning, consumer insight and integrated media planning.
• Digital and Social Media — content strategy, social analytics, paid social campaigns and community management.
• Media Writing and Visual Communication — persuasive writing for press, social and advertising; basics of visual storytelling and multimedia production.
• Research Methods and Measurement — qualitative and quantitative techniques for audience research, campaign evaluation and ROI reporting.
• Ethics, Law and Reputation Management — media law fundamentals, ethical practice and reputation risk assessment.
• Applied Practicum / Capstone Campaign — team-based, client-facing project that simulates agency work, culminating in a fully developed integrated campaign. Many students also undertake an internship with local agencies, NGOs or in-house communications teams.

Courses are taught through seminars, workshops, studio classes and real-world projects, with an emphasis on portfolio development and practical skill-building in digital tools and analytics platforms.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline. Successful candidates typically demonstrate strong written communication skills and an interest in media, marketing or public affairs. The admissions process generally requires:

• A completed application and academic transcripts.
• A personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• A current résumé or CV detailing relevant experience.
• One or two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Work or portfolio samples, such as writing, campaign work or social media projects, may be requested to assess practical ability.
• Proof of English language proficiency if your prior education was not in English (for example, commonly accepted tests such as IELTS or TOEFL; applicants should check Chapman’s official guidance for current score expectations).

Professional experience in communications, marketing or related fields is helpful but not always required; selection also considers demonstrated potential and fit with the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across agencies, in-house teams, non-profits and government. Typical job titles include:

• Public Relations Specialist / Media Relations Manager
• Account Executive / Account Manager in advertising agencies
• Social Media Strategist or Content Manager
• Communications or Brand Manager
• Digital Campaign Analyst or Insights Specialist
• Corporate Communications Officer or External Affairs Specialist
• Independent consultant or freelancer in integrated communications

The programme’s applied focus helps students build a professional portfolio and network, supporting transitions into entry-level and mid-level roles in the communications and marketing sectors. Graduates also pursue further study or move into adjacent fields such as market research, public affairs and stakeholder engagement.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman offers small class sizes and a practicum-driven curriculum that emphasises collaboration and real client work. The university’s location in Southern California provides proximity to a diverse media market and creative industries, giving students access to agencies, production houses and non-profit organisations for internships and partnerships.

Students benefit from faculty with industry experience, cross-disciplinary opportunities with Chapman’s media and film production facilities, and career services that help with placements and employer connections. The programme’s focus on both strategic thinking and hands-on skills is designed to prepare graduates to hit the ground running in fast-moving communications roles.