American University United States

Public Relations and Strategic Communication

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 Public Relations and Strategic Communication Bachelors Degree at American University is designed for aspiring communicators who aim to shape public perception and drive impactful campaigns. In today's interconnected world, mastering strategic communication is crucial for managing reputations, influencing public opinion, and fostering meaningful dialogue across diverse platforms. This programme equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to navigate the complexities of modern media landscapes, preparing you for a dynamic career where clear, ethical, and persuasive communication is paramount.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over four years, engaging with a curriculum that balances core communication theories with specialised topics such as crisis communication, social media strategies, and media relations. Through case studies, practical writing exercises, and a capstone portfolio project, you will develop your ability to craft compelling narratives and execute strategic campaigns. You will also have opportunities for internships, allowing you to gain invaluable professional experience and graduate with a strong portfolio and the confidence to excel in roles within agencies, corporations, and non-profit organisations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive education in public relations and strategic communication. Students will explore foundational communication concepts, delve into the principles and practices of public relations, and develop essential skills in areas such as public speaking, social media, crisis communication, and campaign management. The curriculum culminates in a capstone project, allowing students to showcase their expertise through a professional portfolio.

1 Core (6 credit hours)

Understanding Media Compulsory
Communication and Society Compulsory

2 Professional (12 credit hours)

Public Relations Compulsory
Public Relations Writing Compulsory
Public Relations Case Studies Compulsory
Public Communication Research Compulsory

3 PRSC Topics and Skills (12 credit hours)

Public Speaking Compulsory
The PR Presidency Compulsory
Strategic Communication and Event Management Compulsory
Collaboration and Team Communication Compulsory
Social Media Strategies and Tactics Compulsory
Topics in Mass Media
Political Communication Compulsory
Crisis Communication Compulsory
International Strategic Communication Compulsory
Strategic Communication in Advertising Compulsory
Strategic Communication Campaigns: Advertising Lab Compulsory
Digital Strategic Communication Analytics and Certifications Compulsory
Reputation Management Compulsory
Entertainment Communication Compulsory
Strategic Communication and Content Creation Compulsory
Independent Study Project in Communication
Ethics in Strategic Communication Compulsory
Social Marketing for Social Impact Compulsory
Media Relations Compulsory
Speechwriting Compulsory
Grassroots Digital Advocacy Compulsory
Documentary Storytelling for Social Change Compulsory
Visual Design in Strategic Communication Compulsory
Political Advertising Compulsory
Strategic Health Communication Compulsory

4 Capstone (3 credit hours)

Public Relations Portfolio Compulsory

5 Electives (9 credit hours)

Visual Literacy Elective
Communication Field Experience Elective
Public Speaking Elective
The PR Presidency Elective
Principles of Photography Elective
Digital Media and Culture Elective
Strategic Communication and Event Management Elective
Collaboration and Team Communication Elective
Communication Careers Internship Elective
Social Media Strategies and Tactics Elective
Children, Youth, and Digital Culture Elective
Topics in Mass Media
Political Communication Elective
Crisis Communication Elective
International Strategic Communication Elective
Strategic Communication in Advertising Elective
Strategic Communication Campaigns: Advertising Lab Elective
Digital Strategic Communication Analytics and Certifications Elective
Reputation Management Elective
Entertainment Communication Elective
Strategic Communication and Content Creation Elective
Independent Study Project in Communication
Senior Professional Internship Elective
Politics and the Media Elective
Censorship and Media Elective
Opinion Writing Elective
Ethics in Strategic Communication Elective
Social Marketing for Social Impact Elective
Media Relations Elective
Speechwriting Elective
Grassroots Digital Advocacy Elective
Documentary Storytelling for Social Change Elective
Visual Design in Strategic Communication Elective
Political Advertising Elective
Strategic Health Communication Elective

6 Related Requirements

History of American Popular Culture
American Encounters: 1492-1865
U.S. History since 1865
African American History: to 1877
African American History: 1877 to Present
Ethnicity in America
Social Forces that Shaped America
Women in America to 1850
Women in America since 1850
The West in Crisis, 1900-1945
Oliver Stone's America
Macroeconomics
The Global Majority
Microeconomics
Fundamentals of Marketing and Business for Communications

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 241,080.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,000.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Washington Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesCorporate & Commercial LawEmployment & Labor LawInvestment Management & Asset ManagementLegal Aid & Public Interest LawMuseums & Cultural HeritageReal Estate & Property LawStreaming & Digital ContentTax & Legal ComplianceTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Actors' Equity Association

Deloitte

Why Study Public Relations and Strategic Communication at American University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at American 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 Public Relations and Strategic Communication at American University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for on-campus jobs.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can choose from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE. Scores vary by test, so please ensure you meet the specific thresholds listed for each.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as public relations specialists, communication managers, media relations coordinators, social media strategists, and corporate communication officers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This Bachelor's Degree focuses on shaping public perception and driving impactful campaigns. Key subjects include crisis communication and social media strategies, preparing you for a dynamic career in communication.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Public Relations and Strategic Communication program has intakes in January and August. Be sure to apply accordingly to start your studies on time.
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