Strategic Communication

Program of Study

WSU’s integrated strategic communication major, available 100% online, offers a dynamic curriculum blending digital and traditional media. You’ll dive into data-driven decision-making and innovative problem-solving. As a student, you’ll gain skills for careers in corporate communications, social media, PR, advertising, and more. Opportunities abound in PR firms, ad agencies, and across industries needing communication pros.

Why Choose WSU?

• Prestigious Program: The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication is nationally acclaimed and award-winning.
• Hands-On Learning: Apply advertising and PR principles in real-world internships.
• Expert Faculty: Learn from award-winning professors renowned for their teaching and research, upholding Edward R. Murrow’s legacy.

Ready to level up your communication game? 

Courses

All WSU undergraduates must complete a minimum of 120 semester credits of which 40 credits must be at the 300 – 400 level to earn a BA in Strategic Communication. At least 30 credits must be from WSU.

Your program may include different courses. Consult with your academic advisor about the best combination of courses for you. Visit the WSU Catalog for a complete list of official Integrated Strategic Communication requirements.

All WSU undergraduates must complete the University Common Requirements (UCORE). These can generally be satisfied with a direct transfer degree. For a list of direct-transfer agreements, visit WSU’s Transferring an Associate Degree web page.

University Common Requirements (34-35 credits)

Washington State University’s UCORE general education program equips undergraduate students with a wide-ranging knowledge base and versatile skills that enhance their major fields of study at WSU.

College Core Courses (18 credits)

COM 101 – Media and Society
COM 102 – Public Speaking in the Digital Age
COM 105 – Communication in Global Contexts
COM 138 – Introduction to Communication
COM 210 – Multimedia Content Creation
COM 300 – Writing in Communication

Strategic Communication Core Courses (15 credits)

COM 309 – Quantitative Research Methods
COMSTRAT 301 – Foundations of Persuasion
COMSTRAT 310 – Digital Content Promtion
COMSTRAT 395 – Introduction to Integrated Strategic Communication
One Advanced Media and Society course from approved list

Integrated Strategic Communication Major Courses (21 credits)

COMJOUR 333 – Reporting Across Platforms
COMSTRAT 312 – Principles of Public Relations
COMSTRAT 380 – Advertising Principles and Practices
COMSTRAT 383 – Media Strategies and Techniques for PR
COMSTRAT 476 – Consumer Insights and Branding
COMSTRAT 485 – Public Relations Management and Campaigns
COMSTRAT 495 – Strategic Communication Professional Internship

Major Upper-Division Electives (6 credits)