Program Description
The world of advertising and public relations is changing, and changing fast. Context-sensitive ads, like Google’s ad words, are just the beginning of a new paradigm that will deliver personal and powerful messages just to the people who are interested. The nonprofit sector is following along, and public relations professionals are learning to master new, cost-effective tools.
If you are a creative, strategic thinker, a bachelor’s in science in advertising and public relations provides the skills you need to succeed in a shifting, global marketplace. A unique feature of this program is a two-semester in-house agency experience where students gain practical experience. A senior capstone course prepares students for a career search and requires the completion of a professional portfolio.
Mission
The mission of the Department of Communication and Media is to prepare credible, creative Christian professionals for a world where the mastery of communication skills and technologies is essential. We accomplish our mission by helping students produce, publish and perform original work that is both ethical and effective.
Career opportunities
The study of communication will help you develop useful skills in such fields as ministry, mass media, theatre, business, government and social services. Our program is particularly appropriate for positions involving public relations, broadcasting, corporate communication, public information management, employee communication, training and development, and print journalism. Visit our career services section.
Program strengths and emphases
The study of communication at Spring Arbor University is a hands-on experience, with a foundation in classical and Christian perspectives. All students complete a core sequence that promotes a thoughtful and ethical understanding of communication principles and best practices.
Throughout the program you will apply these principles. We offer extracurricular opportunities in writing, acting, broadcasting, designing, producing and researching in addition to practical hands-on experiences in the classroom. Each year students win awards in state and national competitions and engage in meaningful internships.
A large part of this 62-hour major includes foundational communication skills and perspectives. (See Communication and Media for other Department of Communication and Media programs and program strengths, descriptions of COM courses, and career opportunities.)
The Advertising and Public Relations major is one of four bachelor of science programs offered by the Department of Communication and Media. The following majors are also offered through the Department of Communication and Media: