Chatham University

What you'll study

The programme balances theoretical foundations in media and communication with practical coursework in digital production and strategic communication. Core topics typically include media theory and criticism, qualitative and quantitative research methods, media ethics and law, and contemporary issues such as media effects, audience studies and the political economy of communication.

• Digital and multimedia production: training in multimedia storytelling, podcast and video production, visual communication and data visualisation.
• Strategic communication and public relations: campaign planning, crisis communication, branding, and organisational communication.
• Research methods and applied research: research design, content analysis, survey methods, and options for an applied practicum, capstone project or thesis depending on student focus.
• Data and analytics: social media analytics, web metrics and using data to inform audience strategy.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: opportunities to take electives across fields such as sustainability communication, gender and media, and digital humanities to tailor the degree to specific interests.

Students typically complete a combination of seminar-style classes, practical labs and a culminating project that demonstrates both conceptual understanding and professional competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised undergraduate degree in any discipline; degrees in communication, media, journalism, the arts, humanities or social sciences are common. Admissions decisions take into account academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining goals and interests, and a résumé or CV detailing relevant experience. Applicants may be asked to submit a portfolio of writing or media work if applying for more production-focused pathways. One or more letters of recommendation are usually required. Standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) are typically considered optional or dependent on the applicant profile.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence of prior study in English, in line with university policy.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a variety of roles across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Common career paths include:

• Digital content strategist, social media manager and content producer for media organisations or brands.
• Communications or public relations officer for nonprofits, corporations, cultural institutions and universities.
• Journalist, multimedia reporter or producer for local and regional outlets.
• Media researcher, audience analyst or market research specialist using qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Policy communications, advocacy and community engagement roles that require translating research and issues for broad audiences.

The programme's emphasis on applied projects and local partnerships helps students build professional portfolios and access internship opportunities in the Pittsburgh area and beyond.

Why study at Chatham University

Chatham offers a small, student-centred learning environment where class sizes allow close faculty mentoring and personalised project guidance. The university's connections within Pittsburgh's media, arts and nonprofit communities provide practical internship and collaboration opportunities. Chatham emphasises experiential learning and interdisciplinary study, enabling students to combine media skills with interests such as sustainability, gender studies or community engagement. Career services and alumni networks support professional development and job placement, while campus resources for media production give students hands-on experience preparing them for contemporary communication roles.