University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational communication theory with practical skills in writing, media production and strategic planning. Core topics typically include principles of public relations, advertising principles, mass communication theory, persuasion and rhetoric, media law and ethics, and research methods. Practical modules emphasise media writing, digital and social media strategies, campaign development and evaluation, strategic communication planning, visual communication and multimedia production.

• Foundations: introduction to communication theory, media institutions, ethics and law.
• Writing and production: news and feature writing, press release and copywriting, multimedia storytelling and content creation.
• Strategy and planning: campaign planning, audience analysis, brand strategy, crisis communication and measurement.
• Research and evaluation: qualitative and quantitative research methods, media analytics and evaluation techniques.
• Experiential learning: practicum courses, client-based projects, student-run agencies and an applied capstone project.

A distinctive element of the University of Cincinnati experience is its emphasis on experiential education: students are encouraged to participate in co-op placements or internships with public relations firms, advertising agencies, corporate communication departments and non-profit organisations. Electives allow exploration of related areas such as marketing, graphic design, digital analytics and political communication.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have completed a recognised secondary-school qualification. Admissions typically consider academic performance across a range of subjects, with particular attention to written communication and critical thinking skills. Typical supporting material can include a personal statement outlining interest in communication fields and any relevant extracurricular experience.

• Domestic applicants: submission of secondary transcripts and standardised test scores where required by the university; evidence of strong written English is important.
• International applicants: submission of equivalent secondary-school documents and proof of English language proficiency through an accepted qualification.
• Other considerations: relevant work experience, a short writing sample or portfolio of communications work can strengthen an application but are not always mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of communications roles across private, public and non-profit sectors. Common entry-level positions include public relations specialist, account coordinator at advertising agencies, social media or content specialist, corporate communications assistant and event or community relations coordinator. With experience, alumni progress to account executive, media relations manager, brand strategist, digital marketing manager or communications director roles.

The degree also provides a foundation for careers in market research, media planning, internal communications, public affairs and fundraising. Graduates who wish to move into research, teaching or senior leadership may choose to pursue postgraduate study in communication, marketing, business or related fields.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati emphasises applied learning and strong employer links, giving communication students repeated opportunities to work on real projects and placements. The university’s cooperative education and internship culture helps students build professional experience before graduation. Being located in a regional economic hub provides access to agencies, corporations, media outlets and non-profit organisations for placements and networking.

• Experiential focus: practicum courses, client projects and co-op/internship pathways integrated into the curriculum.
• Industry connections: partnerships with local and national communication firms, media organisations and corporate employers.
• Student activities: active student chapters of professional bodies, student-run agencies and campus media that allow practical leadership experience.
• Facilities and faculty: access to media labs, multimedia production equipment and faculty with professional communication experience.