City University of Seattle

What you'll study

This programme balances theoretical foundations in media and communication with practical training in contemporary production and distribution tools. Core topics typically include media and society, mass communication theory, media law and ethics, and research methods.

• Digital Media Production: audio and video production, editing, podcasting and multimedia storytelling.
• Journalism and Reporting: news writing, editing, investigative techniques and multimedia reporting.
• Public Relations and Advertising: campaign planning, message strategy, media relations and brand communications.
• Social Media and Content Strategy: social platforms, audience engagement, content management systems and analytics.
• Media Law, Ethics and Policy: freedom of expression, privacy, intellectual property and regulatory frameworks.
• Research Methods and Media Analytics: qualitative and quantitative research methods, audience measurement and data-driven decision making.
• Capstone and Internship: supervised industry practicum or internship and a senior capstone project focused on a real-world communications brief.

Students complete the major alongside general education requirements to develop critical thinking, writing and digital literacy. Electives allow specialisation in areas such as documentary production, multimedia design, strategic communication or global media studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma (high school diploma, A-levels, IB or equivalent). Admission may consider academic transcripts, a personal statement and, where relevant, a portfolio of media work or writing samples.

• Academic: satisfactory secondary school completion or equivalent; transfer students may present previous college credits.
• English proficiency: international applicants must demonstrate competence in English through recognised tests or prior instruction in English, unless exempt.
• Additional materials: some applicants submit a short personal statement describing interest in media and communication; a portfolio is recommended for those with production experience but is not always mandatory.

City University of Seattle often offers multiple start options and flexible delivery modes, including evening and online courses, which can be suitable for working students. Prospective students should check specific programme guidance and speak with admissions advisors about credit transfer and articulation agreements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of roles across journalism, corporate communications, marketing and media production. The programme emphasises employability through applied projects and industry placements.

• Journalist, reporter or multimedia producer for print, online or broadcast outlets
• Social media manager, content strategist or digital marketing specialist
• Public relations or corporate communications officer
• Media planner or advertising account executive
• Community engagement or outreach coordinator for non-profits and public agencies
• Production assistant, editor or researcher in film, television and digital media companies

Graduates also pursue postgraduate study in specialised areas such as media studies, strategic communication, marketing or law.

Why study at City University of Seattle

City University of Seattle offers a pragmatic, career-oriented approach with small class sizes and instructors who bring professional experience in media and communications. Its location in a major Pacific Northwest city provides access to a vibrant media, tech and creative sector for internships and networking.

• Practical focus: coursework emphasises hands-on projects, multimedia production and applied research.
• Flexible delivery: options for evening and online study support working students and career changers.
• Industry connections: local media outlets, PR firms and tech companies provide internship and employment pathways.
• Support services: career advising, portfolio development and opportunities to present work publicly.

Together these elements prepare students to enter the fast-changing media landscape with both conceptual knowledge and tangible skills employers seek.