College of Arts, Education, and Humanities
Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies
Our program was designed with one primary goal in mind: to align communication education with the real skills employers are seeking today. We aim to prepare you for careers in digital and social media strategy, data analytics and literacy, strategic communication, public relations, and crisis management.
Program Details
- Official Degree Name
- Bachelor of Arts
- Format
-
In Class-Day
- Credit Hours
- 120
- Program Start
- Fall or Spring Semester
- Application Deadline
- Apply Anytime
- Average Time to Degree
- 4 Years
Why Get Your Communication Studies Degree at DeSales University?
At DeSales University, the Communication and Media Studies program is designed with a clear purpose: to prepare students for real careers in today’s evolving media and communication landscape.
Unlike traditional programs that focus heavily on theory or production alone, DeSales combines strategic communication, digital media skills, and data-driven decision-making. This integrated approach reflects what employers are actively seeking across industries.
Students benefit from:
- A career-oriented curriculum aligned with industry needs
- Hands-on learning experiences that build practical skills
- Close faculty mentorship and small class sizes
- Opportunities to customize their degree with a minor
- A required professional internship, ensuring real-world experience before graduation
This approach helps students graduate not just with knowledge, but with marketable skills, professional connections, and a clear career direction.
Program Highlights
Value and Return of Investment
- The Communication and Media Studies major at DeSales equips students with the skills and experience needed to thrive in today’s fast-changing communication landscape. With a strong focus on experiential learning and career readiness, students explore digital communication, media strategy, and audience engagement while building a foundation for success across industries.
Professional Development Opportunities
- Students gain hands-on training in data literacy, media analytics, campaign strategy, and crisis communication—learning how to craft impactful messages and respond to real-world challenges. This balance of creative thinking and strategic analysis helps graduates stay adaptable and competitive in a wide range of professional settings.
Flexible Options
- At DeSales, students have the flexibility to pair their Communication and Media Studies major with a complementary minor to align with their personal and professional goals. A required internship provides valuable industry experience, helping students build confidence, expand their network, and graduate ready to make an impact.
What Will You Study?
Students in the program build a strong foundation in both theory and application, preparing them to analyze, create, and lead communication efforts.
Coursework is designed to help students:
- Understand how communication shapes organizations and public life
- Use data to inform messaging and strategy
- Develop effective communication campaigns across platforms
- Analyze audiences and media environments
- Strategic Digital Communication
- Media Relations and Crisis Communication
- Campaign Strategy and Audience Engagement
- Communication Research and Analysis
Program Tracks & Pathways
Swipe below to discover more!
Tracks
Learn MoreTrack
Digital Media, Communication & Strategy
Ideal for students interested in digital marketing, media production, and content strategy, this track focuses on:
- Social media strategy
- Digital content creation
- Media analytics
- Multimedia storytelling and production
Students develop the skills needed for careers in digital media, branding, and marketing communication.
Courses You May Take Include:
Track
Communication for Public Affairs
This track is designed for students interested in government, public service, and advocacy communication.
Areas of focus include:
- Media relations
- Crisis communication
- Public policy messaging
- Community engagement
- Campaign communication
Students are prepared for roles in public affairs, political communication, and nonprofit leadership.
Courses You May Take Include:
Master's in Fine Arts
Learn MoreMaster's
Master's in Fine Arts
Graduate in five years with both a bachelor's degree and an MFA in Creative Writing. Start masters courses in your senior year and earn your MFA with only one more year of study.
Required Courses:
Outcomes & Careers
A degree in Communication and Media Studies from DeSales University opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities across industries.
Graduates pursue roles such as:
- Public Relations Specialist
- Journalist or Content Strategist
- Press Secretary or Public Information Officer
- Speechwriter or Political Reporter
- NGO Communications Officer
- Public Affairs Manager
- Campaign Manager
- Brand Strategist
- Social Media Strategist
- Digital Marketing Specialist
- Corporate Communications Specialist
- Media Analyst
- Product Marketing Manager
- Community Outreach Coordinator
These careers span:
- Media and news organizations
- Corporations and marketing agencies
- Government and public sector roles
- Nonprofit and international organizations
Application Checklist
- Application Fee: None
- Transcripts: Official High School Transcript
- Standardized Tests: Test-optional, however, an Admissions Interview may be requested
- Recommendations: Completed Guidance Counselor Form and Teacher Recommendation Form
Program Support
Program FAQs
Our events calendar houses all our academic calendar. Simply use the Academic Calendar and Semester filters to see important upcoming dates.
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Office of Admissions
Contact
-
610-282-1100 x1277 -
admiss@desales.edu -
Dooling Hall
