University of San Diego

What you'll study

This programme blends theoretical and practical work to give students a rounded understanding of contemporary media and communication practices. Core topics typically include media theory and history, mass communication, media ethics, research methods, digital and social media strategies, multimedia storytelling, and media law and policy.

• Foundations of Communication: Introduction to communication theory, rhetorical analysis and the social role of media.
• Media and Society: Critical studies of news, entertainment, representation, audience studies and the cultural impact of media technologies.
• Digital Media and Production: Practical courses in video production, audio/podcast production, multimedia storytelling, editing, and basic web and social media content creation.
• Strategic Communication: Principles of public relations, advertising, branding, strategic messaging and campaign planning.
• Research Methods and Data: Qualitative and quantitative methods for media research, content analysis and audience measurement.
• Ethics and Law: Media ethics, freedom of speech, intellectual property and regulatory frameworks affecting media practice.
• Capstone and Practicum: A senior project or capstone that integrates theory and practice, often paired with internship placements in local media, agencies or nonprofits.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Admissions typically consider the overall academic record, strength of the senior-year programme, and evidence of communication skills such as a writing sample or personal statement. US applicants usually submit high-school transcripts and may be asked for letters of recommendation.

Standardised tests may be optional depending on institutional policy; check the university’s admissions guidance for the current position. International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency with an accepted test or other approved evidence. Some practical or advanced courses may recommend prior experience in digital media, media production or information technology, but formal portfolios are rarely mandatory for general admission.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across media, communications and related fields. Typical career paths include:

• Digital content creator, video producer or multimedia journalist
• Social media manager, content strategist or community manager
• Public relations practitioner, communications officer or corporate communications specialist
• Advertising account executive or copywriter
• Media researcher, audience analyst or market researcher
• Nonprofit communications manager or advocacy and outreach coordinator
• Further study in graduate programmes such as media studies, journalism, law, business or public policy

Internships and practicum experiences, common in the programme, help students build professional portfolios and industry contacts in the San Diego region and beyond.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers this degree within a liberal-arts context, emphasising critical thinking, ethical reflection and experiential learning. Students benefit from small class sizes and faculty who combine scholarly expertise with professional experience in media and communications.

USD’s location provides access to a vibrant regional media market and a range of internship and partnership opportunities with local media outlets, agencies, nonprofits and tech companies. The university supports hands-on learning with media labs, production equipment and opportunities for student-run media projects, enabling students to graduate with both theoretical insight and practical skills.

Finally, USD’s focus on community engagement and ethical leadership prepares graduates to apply communication skills responsibly across public, private and civic sectors.