Boise State University

What you'll study

The PRAAC degree combines foundational communication theory with hands‑on practice in writing, media production and campaign strategy. You will study core topics such as public relations principles, advertising strategy, persuasion, media law and communication ethics alongside applied subjects like digital and social media, visual communication and measurement.

• Core theory and methods – introduction to communication, research methods, persuasion and audience analysis.
• Writing and content creation – news and feature writing, press releases, copywriting, storytelling for different platforms.
• Strategic practice – public relations campaign planning, advertising campaign development, crisis communication and reputation management.
• Digital and visual communication – social media strategy, online analytics, multimedia production and visual design for communication.
• Ethics and law – media law, intellectual property, professional ethics and the regulatory environment for advertising and PR.
• Applied experience – practicum courses, client projects, and an internship or capstone campaign that require real‑world planning, execution and evaluation.

Students typically complete general education requirements plus major coursework. Electives enable specialisation in areas such as political communication, nonprofit communication, sports communication or digital analytics.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a completed application to Boise State University. Competitive applicants present a strong academic record in secondary school coursework. Additional materials that strengthen an application include a personal statement, resume of relevant experience, and letters of recommendation.

Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be considered according to the university’s admissions policies; applicants should check the current requirements and any optional testing policies. Transfer applicants must supply official college transcripts and may be eligible for transfer credit for relevant completed coursework. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through accepted tests or other university‑approved evidence.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of communication roles in agencies, corporate communications departments, government, higher education and nonprofit organisations. Typical job titles include:

• Public relations specialist or account executive
• Social media manager and content strategist
• Advertising account coordinator or copywriter
• Corporate communications or media relations officer
• Brand or marketing communications coordinator
• Community and stakeholder engagement specialist

With experience, graduates progress to senior roles in campaign management, communications leadership, brand strategy or consultancy. The degree also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study in communication, marketing, public affairs or business.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State provides a career‑focused PRAAC programme with an emphasis on applied learning and local industry engagement. Students benefit from practicum courses and internships with agencies, civic organisations and companies in the Boise area and beyond, allowing portfolio development and professional networking.

The programme is taught by faculty who combine academic expertise with professional experience in public relations and advertising. Facilities support multimedia production, digital analytics and campaign development, and class sizes favour instructor feedback and collaborative project work. For students seeking a practical, regionally connected communication education, Boise State offers direct pathways into local employers as well as preparation for national careers.