Department of Communication Studies and Theatre

Master of Arts in Digital Media Strategy

The Master of Arts in Digital Media Strategy is an interdisciplinary program for students interested in designing, managing, and measuring the effects of digital media.

Strategic Communications Major

Create Messages that Matter

A strategic communications degree prepares you to design, deliver, and analyze messages in today's fast-changing media and technology environments. Graduates are employed in public relations, marketing, video production, social media, and broadcasting, fields that require expertise in digital storytelling and message strategy.

What to Expect in the Strategic Communications Degree Program

• Craft compelling messages tailored to diverse audiences and platforms.
• Write, design, and produce multimedia content for real-world communications channels.
• Use research tools and analytics to evaluate the effectiveness of media strategies.

Courses in Strategic Communications

You'll take courses that prepare you to craft and assess messages across a variety of media and professional settings. Through a blend of theory and hands-on practice, you'll gain a strong foundation in writing, research, and digital communication.

BCVoice: Real-world media experience on campus

Students gain real-world publishing experience through BCVoice, Bridgewater's student-run campus media outlet. From news and reviews to podcasts and videos, students produce content in written, visual, and audio formats—while learning ethical journalism, team collaboration, and audience engagement.

Field Experiences in Communications

Making connections and putting your classroom work into practice are key to making sure you are ready for the job market.

• Students are encouraged to complete a field experience during their junior and/or senior year.
• You'll work in a professional environment under the guidance of a mentor with experience in your chosen communication field.

Recent off-campus placements have included:

• Sports Illustrated
• Valley Pike Farm Market
• Skyline Literacy
• Virginia FC
• Bluestone Vineyard

On-campus experiences have included roles with:

• Athletic Media Relations
• Admissions
• Marketing and Communications
• Alumni Relations

Senior Seminar – Capstone Course

The senior capstone course prepares you to transition from college to a career with confidence. In this course, you'll refine your job search strategies, design resumes and cover letters, and practice effective interviewing techniques—all while developing your professional communication style.

• Every student in the strategic communications program completes a personalized capstone project that showcases their strengths.

Recent student projects have included:

• A sports-focused podcast series
• A social media campaign for BC women's basketball
• A short dramatic film
• A blog series documenting job shadowing experiences

Master of Arts in Digital Media Strategy

Students can apply for the Master of Arts in Digital Media Strategy program at the end of their junior year. This innovative interdisciplinary program allows students to earn bachelor's and master's degrees in just five years. Strategic communications majors are particularly well-prepared for this program that focuses on advanced message design, production, and analysis, as well as project management and consulting strategies.

Strategic Communication Degree Careers: From PR to Digital Marketing

Pursue careers in advertising, broadcasting, public relations, event planning, higher education, marketing, sales, and customer service. Our graduates have gone on to work at places such as Carnival Cruise Line Entertainment, Klett Consulting Group, University of Virginia, James Madison University Alumni Association, HOVA Flight Services, and Japan Tobacco International among others. Their career paths include:

• Digital Marketing Specialist
• Social Media Manager
• Program Manager
• Web Designer/IT Content Creator
• Communications Coordinator
• Vice President of Marketing
• Digital Marketing Analyst
• Communication Director
• Marketing Specialist
• Photojournalist
• SEO Content Writer
• Marketing Consultant
• Editor
• Podcast Producer

Chart your path

Learn more about the options for employment and advancement in the field of communication from the National Communication Association.

Alumni Profiles

• Megan Huffman ‘03 | Nonprofit Executive Director
• Jennifer Midgette ‘08 | Technical Media Manager
• Jacob Neff ‘19 | Communications Coordinator

Theatre Minor

Bolster your degree by adding a theatre minor to any major at Bridgewater.

Bridgewater College: A Summarization

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Overview:

Bridgewater College is a private, liberal arts college located in Virginia. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a close-knit community and personalized learning experience. The college prides itself on its affordable tuition, making a college degree accessible to a wider range of students.

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Services Offered:

Academics:

Bridgewater College offers a diverse selection of 60 majors and minors across various disciplines.

Admissions & Aid:

The college provides comprehensive support for prospective students, including application assistance, financial aid options, and a net price calculator to estimate individual costs.

Life at Bridgewater:

The college fosters a strong sense of community, with opportunities for student involvement in clubs, organizations, athletics, and social events.

Visit:

Prospective students can schedule campus tours, meet with current students and faculty, and experience the college environment firsthand.

Other:

Bridgewater College offers additional services such as career counseling, alumni networking, and a campus store.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Bridgewater College emphasizes a close-knit community where students are encouraged to participate in various activities and events. The college provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and socially.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Tuition:

Bridgewater College offers a competitive tuition rate, making a private college education more accessible.

Personalized Learning:

The college prioritizes small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships, fostering a personalized learning experience.

Strong Community:

Bridgewater College cultivates a strong sense of community, encouraging student involvement and fostering lasting connections.

Focus on Experiential Learning:

The college offers opportunities for students to engage in research, internships, and study abroad programs, enhancing their practical skills and knowledge.

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Academic Programs:

Bridgewater College offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:

Undergraduate:

60 majors and minors across various disciplines, including the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

Graduate:

Four graduate programs, focusing on areas such as education, athletic training, and business.

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Other:

Connections Campaign:

The college is currently running a $35 million campaign to raise funds for scholarships, teaching and learning initiatives, and capital projects.

Summer Research Awards:

Bridgewater College provides funding for students to conduct research projects under the guidance of faculty members during the summer.

International Opportunities:

The college offers study abroad programs and opportunities for students to engage in global learning experiences.