Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

This programme blends theory, research and applied practice to prepare you for strategic communication work across earned, owned and paid channels. Core topics typically include strategic public relations, advertising principles, campaign planning and evaluation, advanced persuasion and messaging, media law and ethics, and qualitative and quantitative research methods. You will also study contemporary areas such as digital and social media strategy, data analytics for communication, crisis and issues management, and audience segmentation.

The degree structure commonly offers a mix of required core courses and elective options, with pathways to choose a research-oriented capstone or a professionally focused practicum/internship. Typical module examples are:

• Strategic Communication Campaigns: planning, implementation and evaluation of integrated campaigns
• Communication Research Methods: design, data collection and analysis for PR and advertising
• Digital and Social Media Strategy: platform strategy, content creation and metrics
• Media Law and Ethics: legal considerations and ethical decision-making in communication
• Persuasion and Message Design: theory-driven message development and testing
• Crisis Communication and Reputation Management: preparing for and responding to organisational crises
• Advertising Creative and Media Planning: creative strategy and buying considerations for campaigns
• Capstone Project or Internship: applied project with an external partner or supervised professional placement

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Admission typically considers undergraduate academic performance, a statement of purpose outlining professional goals, and a current CV or résumé. Most applicants are asked to submit two letters of recommendation and a writing sample; some applicants may be invited to an interview.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt. Where relevant, the programme may accept applicants with professional experience in communication or related fields and may offer provisional entry with recommended preparatory coursework for those without a communication undergraduate degree. GRE/GMAT scores are not commonly required but may be requested in specific cases—check with the department for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across public relations, advertising and broader communication functions. Common career pathways include:

• Public relations specialist or manager (media relations, corporate communications)
• Advertising account manager, strategist or media planner
• Digital and social media manager or content strategist
• Crisis communications and issues management consultant
• Communications director for nonprofit organisations or government agencies
• Brand manager, marketing communications specialist or integrated communications strategist
• Research analyst focusing on audience insights and campaign evaluation

Graduates often find roles in PR and advertising agencies, corporate communication departments, government and public affairs offices, non-governmental organisations, and as independent consultants or entrepreneurs.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers a programme that emphasises applied learning and regional engagement. Students benefit from access to faculty with academic and professional experience in strategic communication, opportunities to work on real client projects, and practicum placements with regional organisations and agencies. The university’s facilities support hands-on training in digital media, content production and research methods.

The programme’s location and institutional connections provide practical networking opportunities with employers across the state and the Southeast, while a combination of classroom, lab and field experiences helps build a professional portfolio that employers seek. Support services for graduate students, including career advising and research resources, help smooth the transition into advanced roles in the communications sector.