This bachelor of science degree in Strategic Communication offers a strong core of advertising, public relations, and communication courses, to engage students in a variety of professional communication environments. Students may pursue one of three emphases to allow deeper skill mastery in advertising, merchandising, and public relations.
Prepare yourself for a career in communication - learn to craft effective advertising, nurture productive relationships between organizations and important publics, and bridge the gap between buyers and sellers in the world of merchandising. Research shows that many communication professionals commonly move between advertising, merchandising, and public relations throughout their careers. The Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication will engage you in a broad portfolio of courses to give you flexibility and increase your competitive edge in today's job market.
The 24-hour core presents a strong foundation that includes advertising, communication, and public relations classes. You will then specialize in one of three areas by choosing an emphasis from advertising, merchandising or public relations of most interest to you. Throughout your coursework you will develop essential skills sought after in the workplace, including critical thinking, design, media (including online engagement), oral communication, and written communication.
To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 120 |
| Major GPA | 2.5 |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 114 |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Optional |
| University Honors Program | Optional |
| AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A | Recommended |
| Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
Purpose Statement
Recognizing the integrated nature of communication fields, Strategic Communication at Northern Arizona University provides a structural umbrella to enable advertising, merchandising and public relations students to master core principles and theory, as well as, develop critical thinking and practical skills essential in developing and implementing communication strategies across disciplines in a dynamic, consumer-based economy. Students learn techniques demanded by industry to be competitive in today’s job market yet recognize the social and cultural implications that their work has on our broader society.
Strategic Communication Program Values
Take the following 42 units with a minimum GPA of 2.5:
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.