Cost & earnings at La Roche University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor’s in Communication and Media Studies at La Roche University combines practical media production skills with critical study of communication, media industries and ethics. It suits students who want hands‑on experience in digital storytelling, broadcast and multimedia production alongside liberal‑arts foundations and opportunities for internships in the Pittsburgh region.
The programme blends theory and practice across communication, journalism and media production. You will study media and communication theory, media ethics and law, mass communication history, and research methods for media studies. Practical modules cover digital video production, audio production and podcasting, multimedia storytelling, photojournalism, social media strategy, web design for communicators, and basic visual design and motion graphics. Students complete a sequence in public relations and advertising including campaign planning and message design. The curriculum normally includes a practicum or internship placement in a local media organisation and a capstone project or portfolio that showcases applied work.
Course structure typically combines a liberal arts core, major required courses, and elective options that allow specialisation in areas such as broadcast production, digital content strategy, journalism or visual communication. Assignments emphasise hands‑on studio and fieldwork, group projects, media analysis papers, and portfolio development. Facilities used by the programme include multimedia labs, video and audio studios, and editing suites that support student productions.
Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Typical applicants present a college‑preparatory curriculum with coursework in English and social studies; strong written and verbal communication skills are important. Admissions may consider a portfolio of creative work (writing samples, audio/video clips or digital projects) for students applying to production‑heavy paths. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; course‑by‑course evaluation determines transferable credits.
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted test or prior education in English. Applicants may also be asked for a personal statement outlining their interest in media and communication and for academic references. Mature applicants with relevant work or life experience are welcome and will be considered on an individual basis.
Graduates enter a wide range of roles across media, communications and related fields. Common career paths include:
Internships, the capstone portfolio and local industry links in the Pittsburgh area are designed to help students build practical experience and professional networks that support job searches or graduate study.
La Roche offers a small, student‑centred environment where communication students benefit from close mentoring by faculty and small class sizes. The programme integrates liberal arts learning with applied media training, reflecting the university’s emphasis on ethical leadership and community engagement. Students have access to campus multimedia facilities and opportunities to complete internships with regional media outlets, non‑profits and businesses in Pittsburgh.
The university’s supportive career services, faculty connections and emphasis on experiential learning help students develop portfolios and practical experience employers seek. For students who want a values‑oriented education combined with hands‑on media skills and local industry access, La Roche’s Communication and Media Studies programme provides a blend of academic grounding and professional preparation.
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