Benedictine University

What you'll study

The undergraduate programme combines foundational communication theory with applied skills in reporting, multimedia production and strategic communication. Core topics include media writing and reporting, multimedia storytelling, media law and ethics, interpersonal and organisational communication, communication theory and research methods.

Students typically take modules such as:

• Newswriting and Reporting — principles of newsgathering, interviewing and writing for print and online.
• Multimedia Production — hands-on training in video, audio and digital content creation and editing.
• Public Relations and Strategic Communication — campaign planning, message development and media relations.
• Media Law and Ethics — legal responsibilities and ethical decision-making for journalists and communicators.
• Digital and Social Media Strategies — audience analysis, content strategy, analytics and platform-specific best practice.
• Rhetoric and Persuasion — theory and practice of persuasive communication across contexts.
• Capstone/Internship — a culminating project or supervised professional placement connecting classroom learning to real-world practice.

The programme is delivered with a mix of lectures, small seminars and laboratory classes in digital media suites, and emphasises experiential learning through newsroom-style projects, client-based PR campaigns and internship placements, often leveraging Benedictine’s proximity to the Chicago media market.

Entry requirements

Benedictine University seeks applicants who have completed a recognised secondary school programme. Admissions decisions normally consider the overall academic record, a personal statement and any relevant extracurricular experience such as school publications, community media or volunteering.

Typical expectations include a solid high-school transcript and completion of college-preparatory subjects. Standardised test submission may be optional; applicants should check the university’s current policy. International applicants are asked to provide evidence of English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent academic preparation when English is not the primary language of instruction.

Transfer applicants should supply college transcripts and a record of completed coursework; prior credits in communication, writing or media may be considered for transfer.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of careers across journalism, media and communications. Common destinations include:

• Reporter, beat journalist or editorial roles for newspapers, magazines and online outlets
• Broadcast and podcast production roles, including producer and editor positions
• Public relations practitioner, communications specialist or media relations officer
• Social media manager, content strategist or digital marketing roles
• Corporate communications, internal communications or investor relations positions
• Non-profit communications, community outreach and advocacy roles
• Further study in fields such as journalism, media studies, public relations, law or graduate research

The programme’s emphasis on internships and portfolio development helps students demonstrate practical skills to employers in media, agencies, corporations and non-profit organisations.

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine University offers small class sizes and direct access to faculty with professional experience in journalism and public relations, enabling personalised mentorship. The university provides modern media labs, broadcast and editing facilities, and opportunities to work on campus publications and media projects that build a professional portfolio.

Located within reach of a major metropolitan media market, students benefit from internship and networking opportunities with regional newsrooms, PR firms and cultural organisations. The university’s commitment to experiential learning, career services support and community engagement helps prepare graduates for entry into the competitive communications sector while grounding study in ethical and civic perspectives associated with the institution’s values.