Hofstra University United States

BA in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The BA in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy at Hofstra University is designed for students passionate about the power of communication to effect change and shape public discourse. You will delve into the practicalities of exercising influence in a diverse world, mastering the essential skills of speaking, writing, research, and storytelling. This undergraduate degree equips you with a deep understanding of how rhetoric functions across various contexts, from political campaigns to social movements, preparing you to become a confident and effective advocate.

This full-time, on-campus program is structured over four years, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will explore core concepts in oral communication, public speaking, and communication research methods, alongside specialized areas like political communication, health communication, or social movements. Through a culminating senior experience, such as an internship or seminar, you will build a professional portfolio. You will graduate prepared for diverse career paths in law, government, non-profit organizations, and public relations, armed with the advocacy skills employers actively seek.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The BA in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy program equips students with essential communication skills through core courses in oral communication, public speaking, and research methods. Students will explore communication within macro and micro contexts, examining organizational, popular culture, and interpersonal dynamics. The curriculum also delves into language and culture, covering topics such as voice, diction, nonverbal communication, and intercultural interactions, alongside a range of electives and a culminating senior experience.

1 Core Courses - 12 Semester Hours

Oral Communication Compulsory
Public Speaking Compulsory
Communication and Public Advocacy AA
Communication and Research Methods

2 Communication in Macro Contexts - 3 Semester Hours

Fundamentals of Organizational Communication
Rhetoric and Popular Culture
Digital Rhetoric

3 Communication in Micro Contexts - 3 Semester Hours

Interpersonal Communication
Introduction to Performance Studies
Small Group Communication
Conflict Resolution and Management

4 Language and Culture - 3 Semester Hours

Voice and Diction
Nonverbal Communication in Human Interaction
Histories and Theories of Gender and Intercultural Communication
Intercultural Communication
Rhetoric of Comic Books LT
Visual Rhetoric

5 Electives - 6 Semester Hours

Health Communication
Communication, Culture and Illness
American Public Address: The Rhetoric of Conflict and Controversy
Political Communication AA
Advanced Performance Studies
Spoken Word, Slam Poetry, and Performance Compulsory
Performing History
Social Protest: Rhetoric and Performance
Readers Theatre
Speechwriting
Persuasion
Argumentation and Debate Compulsory
Advanced Public Speaking
Strategies of Writing Against Power and Oppression CC

6 Senior Experience - 3 Semester Hours

Rhetoric and Public Advocacy Internship
Rhetoric and Public Advocacy Internship
Senior Seminar

7 Political Communication Core Courses - 9 Semester Hours

Communication and Public Advocacy
American Public Address: The Rhetoric of Conflict and Controversy
Social Protest: Rhetoric and Performance
Political Communication AA

8 Political Science Courses - 9 Semester Hours

Public Opinion and Political Communications
American Politics
Contemporary Issues in American Politics
Politics of Race in the United States
Political Parties and the Voter
State and Local Politics and Governments

9 Political Communication Competencies - 9 Semester Hours

Public Speaking
Speechwriting
Communication and Research Methods
Strategies of Writing Against Power and Oppression
Political Analysis and Statistics

10 Senior Experience - 3 Semester Hours

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,060.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,060.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,060.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,060.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 240,240.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 340.00 - USD 1,938.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Hempstead Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

76%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesCorporate & Commercial LawCriminal LawDigital Media & Online PublishingLive Events & ConcertsMedia Production & EditingNursing & Allied HealthSocial Media & Content StrategyStreaming & Digital ContentTax & Financial Law

Top Employers Hiring for this course

FOX Corporation

Mount Sinai Health System

NBCUniversal

NYU Langone Hospital

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital

Northwell Health

Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

Why Study BA in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy at Hofstra University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Hofstra University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Hofstra University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy at Hofstra University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require additional permits.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English proficiency requirements based on various tests. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 80 and literacy scores are required to ensure students can succeed in their studies.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as public relations specialists, advocacy coordinators, community outreach managers, policy analysts, and communication strategists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on the power of communication, honing skills in speaking, writing, and research. Students will explore core areas like political communication and health communication, preparing them for effective advocacy.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy accepts students for intake in January and September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of these months for a smooth process.
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