Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

This programme combines communication theory with applied practice. Core topics include public relations principles, advertising strategy, media writing, persuasion and rhetoric, audience analysis, and visual and multimedia storytelling. Practical skills are developed in courses on social media strategy, campaign planning, copywriting, media relations, and digital analytics. Research methods and ethics, media law, and strategic communication planning provide the theoretical backbone. Students typically complete a practicum or internship and a capstone campaign or portfolio project that integrates creative work, research and evaluation.

• Introduction to Public Relations and Advertising
• Strategic Communication and Campaign Planning
• Media Writing and Journalistic Practices
• Digital and Social Media Strategies
• Advertising Copy and Art Direction
• Research Methods for Communication
• Media Law and Communication Ethics
• Visual Communication and Multimedia Production
• Practicum/Internship and Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Applicants need a completed secondary school qualification or equivalent. Admissions decisions are based on a combination of academic record, coursework, and any submitted supporting materials. Transfer students should provide college transcripts; relevant community-college coursework and prior practical experience can be considered. International applicants must meet the university’s English proficiency and academic credential requirements. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the department for guidance on preparing a portfolio of writing or media work, although a portfolio is not always required.

Career prospects

Graduates enter roles across public relations, advertising and broader communications industries. Typical entry-level positions include public relations specialist, account coordinator at advertising agencies, social media manager, content strategist, media relations officer, event coordinator, and communications assistant for corporations, non‑profits or government agencies. With experience, graduates progress to account management, campaign strategy, corporate communications director, brand manager or consultancy roles. The degree also provides a foundation for graduate study in communication, marketing, journalism or business.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers a programme emphasising hands‑on learning and connections to the regional media and business community. Students benefit from faculty who balance scholarship with professional experience, opportunities to work on live campaigns, student media and campus communication outlets, and practicum placements in the nearby Detroit and Ann Arbor markets. Smaller class sizes in upper-level courses support mentored project work and portfolio development, while career services and alumni networks help students secure internships and entry‑level roles.