B.A. Public Relations and Strategic Communication, Pathway - 3 Semesters

Entry requirements for Undergraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students must demonstrate strong academic qualifications to be considered for admission to American University. While specific requirements may vary by program, applicants typically need to have completed secondary education or its equivalent with a satisfactory academic record. The academic qualifications requirement generally falls within the range of 75% to 86%, depending on the program and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 5.5 is required with no band less than 5. 
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The minimum TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) score requirement is 68 with no band less than 14.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The minimum PTE Academic score requirement  is 46 with no band less than 42.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): The minimum DET score requirement is 90.

American University (AU) in Washington D.C., USA, is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing financial assistance to international students through various scholarship programs. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent from around the world and make an American University education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.  

Global Leader Scholarship: The Global Leader Scholarship at American University is a merit-based award offered to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

International Peace Scholarship: The International Peace Scholarship is awarded to international students who have a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to promoting peace, justice, and social change. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible students enrolled in undergraduate programs at American University.

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have overcome significant obstacles and challenges to pursue their education and demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. This scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

AU International Merit Scholarship: The AU International Merit Scholarship is awarded to international students with exceptional academic achievements and strong leadership qualities. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students enrolled at American University.

AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students: The AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students is awarded to academically talented international students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong commitment to academic excellence. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students at AU.

AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students: The AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students is awarded to outstanding transfer students from international institutions who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate transfer students at American University.

AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students is awarded to top-performing international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and a commitment to service. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for eligible undergraduate students at AU.

These scholarships for international students at American University reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and global engagement. By providing financial assistance and support to talented and deserving students from around the world, American University seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community and prepare students to become global leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. International students interested in applying for scholarships at American University should review the eligibility criteria and application requirements on the university's official website and contact the Office of Admissions for further assistance.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Strategic Communication from American University in Washington D.C. opens up a wide array of career opportunities in various industries. Equipped with a strong foundation in communication theory, strategic planning, media relations, and digital communication, graduates of this program are well-prepared to thrive in dynamic and evolving fields. The B.A. in Public Relations and Strategic Communication from American University prepares graduates for diverse and rewarding careers in communication-related fields, offering ample opportunities for professional growth, creativity, and impact.

1. Public Relations Specialist: As experts in crafting and disseminating strategic communication messages, graduates can pursue roles as public relations specialists in agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. They may be responsible for managing media relations, writing press releases, organizing events, and developing communication strategies to enhance the public image and reputation of their clients or organizations.

2. Media Relations Manager: Graduates can excel in media relations roles, where they cultivate relationships with journalists, pitch story ideas, and coordinate interviews and media coverage for their organizations or clients. They may work in-house for corporations, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations, or they may work for public relations firms representing multiple clients.

3. Digital Media Strategist: With the increasing importance of digital communication channels, graduates are well-suited for roles as digital media strategists or social media managers. They can develop and implement social media campaigns, manage online communities, analyze social media metrics, and leverage digital platforms to engage with target audiences effectively.

4. Corporate Communication Specialist: In corporate settings, graduates can work as corporate communication specialists, responsible for developing internal and external communication strategies, writing corporate announcements, managing employee communication, and handling crisis communication situations. They play a crucial role in maintaining transparency and fostering positive relationships within the organization and with external stakeholders.

5. Marketing Communication Coordinator: Graduates with a background in public relations and strategic communication can pursue roles in marketing departments, where they contribute to marketing communication efforts, advertising campaigns, and brand management initiatives. They may collaborate with marketing teams to develop integrated marketing communication plans that align with overall business objectives.

6. Event Planner or Coordinator: With strong organizational and communication skills, graduates can pursue careers in event planning and coordination. They may work for event management companies, nonprofit organizations, or corporations, planning and executing a wide range of events, including conferences, fundraisers, product launches, and promotional events.

7. Public Affairs Specialist: Graduates interested in government or advocacy work can pursue roles as public affairs specialists, working for government agencies, advocacy groups, or political organizations. They may be involved in crafting public policy messages, engaging with stakeholders, organizing public outreach campaigns, and representing their organizations in legislative or regulatory matters.

8. Nonprofit Communication Manager: In the nonprofit sector, graduates can make a difference as communication managers or directors, overseeing communication efforts for nonprofit organizations, foundations, or NGOs. They may be responsible for donor communication, fundraising campaigns, advocacy efforts, and public awareness initiatives aimed at advancing the organization's mission and goals.

9. Strategic Communication Consultant: Some graduates may choose to work as independent consultants, providing strategic communication services to clients across various industries. They may specialize in areas such as crisis communication, reputation management, branding, or digital communication, offering tailored solutions to meet their clients' needs.

10. Graduate Studies and Research: For students interested in furthering their education, a B.A. in Public Relations and Strategic Communication can serve as a solid foundation for pursuing advanced degrees in communication studies, public relations, strategic communication, or related fields. Graduates may choose to pursue master's or doctoral degrees to deepen their knowledge and expertise and pursue academic or research-oriented careers.