Programs

The Strategic Communication and Media programs at Slippery Rock University offers seven concentrations, two minors, and a Certificate in Global and Intercultural Communication.

The Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication and Media with a Concentration in Advertising prepares students for a broad field that includes account management, brand strategy and management, copy writing and media planning. Students prepare for jobs in advertising with marketing communication agencies and in the growing field of online digital advertising, both areas are projected to see significant job growth over the next 10 years.

The Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication and Media Studies maintains the traditional study of communication as a liberal art. Students may take courses in rhetoric, interpersonal and intercultural communication, organizational communication, and more - as well as our journalism, public relations and emerging technology areas. 

The program offers greater flexibility than the Bachelor of Science degree programs. Students often choose this program if they are interested in pursuing graduate studies, if they would like to complete a second undergraduate major, or if they would like to pursue coursework in a variety of communication disciplines.

The Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication and Media with a Concentration in Multimedia Journalism allows students to choose from a print or broadcast journalism emphasis, with courses offered in new-media journalism, television production, publication production and international journalism, just to name a few.

The Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication and Media with a Concentration in Digital Media Production prepares students for careers in media including video, audio, interactive and print production. Students pursue areas of emphasis in television or multimedia with coursework prioritizing the development of skills and portfolio material in line with the professional field.

The Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication and Media with a Concentration in Health Communication prepares students to pursue a career in the growing field of health communication. As a top concern for local, national, and global populations, careers focus on the creation of digital and social media content, public relations and integrated marketing strategies, advertising, and more, in an effort to create a more informed and health-conscience public.

The Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication and Media with a Concentration in Integrated Marketing Communication is an interdisciplinary program housed in the department of Strategic Communication and Media, and designed to meet the growing demand for advertising, public relations and IMC among students in the workplace.

The Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication and Media with a Concentration in Public Relations prepares students for the diverse and growing field of public relations. The curriculum includes courses in the newest technologies as well as mainstays, such as writing and campaign development. Graduates are employed by marketing communications and PR firms, corporations and nonprofit groups from coast to coast.

The Minor in Strategic Communication and Media Studies is the perfect complement to other SRU programs of study. Students majoring in sports management, park and resource management, and business are some of those who find a second home in the Strategic Communication and Media Department.

The Minor in Environmental Communication and Heritage Interpretation teaches students how to effectively use speech, images and technology to communicate about natural resources and environmental issues. This minor draws from multiple perspectives including communication, interpretation, public relations, environmental education, environmental science and history. This wide perspective, along with ample hands-on and applied experience, allows students to not only learn but also use these communication skills.

The Minor in Graphic Design is specifically designed for Art majors who would like additional experience in digital design and production to complement their major coursework. This program provides students with the commercial and technical aspects of graphic communication and production.

The Certificate in Global and Intercultural Communication is designed to give students a solid and contextualized knowledge of global and intercultural communication theories and practices. As issues of diversity and cross-cultural exchanges are becoming a larger part of our daily interactions, there is an increasing need to expand one's knowledge and understanding of global communication practices so that one becomes an ethical and inclusive communicator in the workplace and beyond.