Program Overview

Strategic Communication Program

The strategic communication major at Western Michigan University prepares students with knowledge, skills, and expertise in internal and external communication. This integrated approach meets the 21st-century market demand for increased flexibility and breadth of communication competencies in today's communication specialists.

Program Overview

Students will complete a common set of foundations and core courses and then select one of four concentrations to complete the degree:

• Public relations
• Leadership and teamwork
• Diversity and inclusion
• Media and technology Beginning with the fall 2021 semester, the program with a public relations concentration is also available fully online.

Program Outcomes

At the end of the course of study in strategic communication, students will be able to:

• Employ practical skills to assess, adapt, and display strategic oral, written, and digital communication according to key constituencies, goals, and context
• Engage in evidence-based problem-solving and critical thinking about communication at individual, team, organizational, and societal levels
• Demonstrate the ethical, legal, and social responsibilities of public communication professionals in a diverse world

Beyond the Classroom

As a strategic communication student at WMU, students may elect to participate in an internship for academic credit. They can also gain valuable networking and professional development opportunities through student and community organizations.

Career Opportunities

WMU graduates in strategic communication: public relations are prepared for careers such as:

• Media/social media analyst
• Public relations consultant
• Special event director
• Crisis communication manager

Program Location

The program is offered in Kalamazoo.

Related Programs

Other programs of interest include:

• Communication Studies
• Digital Media and Journalism
• Film, Video, and Media Studies
• Interpersonal Communication