Wartburg College

What you'll study

The Communication and Media Studies major blends practical production courses with theoretical and research-focused classes. Core topics typically include digital and multimedia production, media writing and editing, journalism, public relations and strategic communication, broadcasting and audio production, visual communication, social media strategy, media law and ethics, communication theory, and media research methods.

• Foundations: interpersonal communication, public speaking, introduction to mass media, and courses on communication theory and media history.
• Production and technical skills: video production, audio production and podcasting, editing, studio and field production, photojournalism, and digital storytelling.
• Professional practice: media writing (news, feature, copywriting), strategic public relations, advertising concepts, campaign planning, and social media management.
• Analysis and research: media ethics and law, audience research, media effects, and a capstone or senior project that emphasises portfolio development and applied research.
• Experiential learning: practicum placements, student media (newspaper, radio, TV or digital outlets), internships with local or regional organisations, and collaborative projects with other departments.

Entry requirements

Admission to Wartburg College for the BA in Communication and Media Studies follows the college's undergraduate entry criteria. Prospective students should present a completed high school diploma or equivalent with a competitive academic record and a full high school transcript. Admissions typically consider the strength of the overall academic profile rather than a single test score; standardised test submissions may be optional according to current college policy.

• Academic background: recommended courses include English/composition, social studies, and other liberal arts subjects. A portfolio or examples of relevant work can strengthen an application for students with production experience.
• Supporting materials: personal statement or essay, and at least one teacher or counsellor recommendation. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and course descriptions for transfer credit evaluation.
• International applicants: required to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or other approved evidence as specified by the college.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Communication and Media Studies enter a wide range of fields where communication, content creation and media literacy are central. The combination of hands-on production experience and theoretical knowledge supports diverse career paths.

• Journalist, reporter or digital content producer for newspapers, magazines and online outlets
• Public relations specialist, communications coordinator or media relations manager in corporate, non-profit or government settings
• Social media manager, content strategist or digital marketing specialist
• Broadcasting roles such as radio/TV producer, on-air host, or technical production staff
• Advertising and copywriting positions, creative roles in agencies, or brand communication
• Media analyst, audience researcher or roles in media policy and advocacy
• Further study options including graduate programmes in communication, journalism, media studies, law, or business

Why study at Wartburg College

Wartburg College offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, allowing Communication and Media Studies students to get personalised feedback and meaningful practicum opportunities. The programme emphasises experiential learning: students can contribute to student-run media, undertake internships with regional media and organisations, and build a professional portfolio through capstone projects.

Facilities and resources support hands-on training in modern digital production and storytelling techniques, while interdisciplinary links across the college enable students to combine media skills with areas such as business, theatre, politics or education. Graduates leave with both the practical skills employers seek and the critical thinking abilities fostered by a liberal-arts education.