Radford University

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical and applied modules to give a broad foundation in contemporary media and communication practice. Core topics typically include media and cultural theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, media law and ethics, digital and social media strategies, audience analysis, and strategic communication planning.

• Research Methods: advanced qualitative and quantitative techniques, research design and data analysis for communication studies.
• Media Theory: critical approaches to media, culture, representation and ideology.
• Digital and Social Media: platforms, analytics, content strategy and campaign evaluation.
• Multimedia Production: practical skills in audio/video production, editing, and storytelling for contemporary media environments.
• Strategic Communication and PR: message development, crisis communication, stakeholder engagement and measurement.
• Media Law and Ethics: legal considerations, regulation, ethical frameworks and professional responsibility.
• Capstone or Thesis / Project Option: students usually complete a research thesis, professional practicum, or applied capstone project that integrates theory and practice.

Courses are designed to be interactive and applied: seminars, lab sessions, and practicum placements with regional media organisations and communication departments are common. Students may have the option to choose a research-led pathway or a professionally orientated track depending on their career goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in communication, media, humanities, social sciences, or a closely related field. Typical application materials include:

• Official undergraduate transcripts showing academic performance.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional objectives.
• Letters of recommendation (often two).
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae.
• For practicum or production-focused applicants, a portfolio or examples of professional work may be requested.

Admissions committees commonly look for a satisfactory undergraduate GPA; many successful applicants present grades equivalent to a solid upper-second class or a U.S. GPA around the commonly expected minimum for graduate study. Some applicants may be admitted with relevant professional experience even if their academic background is in another discipline. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements via recognised tests or prior instruction in English. GRE scores are not universally required; prospective students should check the programme’s admissions page for current testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across public, private and third‑sector organisations, or continue into doctoral study. Common career paths include:

• Communications manager or director (corporate and nonprofit).
• Public relations specialist and media relations consultant.
• Digital content strategist, social media manager or community manager.
• Broadcast and multimedia producer, editor or journalist.
• Market and audience researcher, media analyst.
• Advertising strategist and campaign planner.
• Higher education or applied research roles leading to PhD study.

The programme’s applied elements, practicum placements and opportunities for internships with regional media outlets and organisations help graduates build professional networks and practical portfolios valued by employers.

Why study at Radford University

Radford University offers a supportive graduate environment with relatively small cohort sizes that enable close mentorship from faculty who have expertise across media studies, communication theory, and applied practice. The university emphasises hands-on learning: students have access to multimedia labs, production facilities and opportunities for internships with local and regional media and organisations in the Roanoke and New River Valley area.

Radford’s programme is designed to balance scholarly rigour and professional preparation, making it suitable for students aiming for both industry roles and further academic study. Graduate assistantships and campus connections can provide teaching and research experience, while a collaborative campus community supports interdisciplinary approaches to contemporary communication challenges.