Program overview
This integrated approach meets the 21st century market demand for increased flexibility and breadth of communication competencies in today's communication specialists. You will complete a common set of foundations and core courses and add on a concentration or certificate in diversity and inclusion, leadership and teamwork, media and technology, or public relations.
(Note: the online format only allows for a certification in public relations).
After graduating, you 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.
Through our program, you will have opportunities to engage in undergraduate research and work with professionals in your field of interest. Faculty support, along with academic and career advising, will help you make smart choices for your future.
Major requirements
Current requirements for the strategic communication major:
Declare as a major
If you are not currently in School of Communication and would like to switch to a strategic communication major, please meet with the School of Communication academic advisor.
Welcome future leaders!
Beyond the classroom
As a strategic communication student at Western Michigan University, you may elect to participate in an internship for academic credit. You can also gain valuable networking and professional development opportunities through student and community organizations, including our Public Relations Organization or the Student Media Group. Students are also encouraged to participate in the WMU Signature program.
Building tomorrow's leaders
Designed with industry feedback, WMU's strategic communication program will prepare you for positions such as communication specialist, social media analyst, public relations practitioner or consultant, special events director, human resources associate and many more.
Career and student employment services is here to help you in your career planning. Dedicated career advisors will assist you with exploring career options, job and internship searches, interviewing, negotiating and more. Explore the many resources available to you.
Recommended minors
WMU offers a variety of minors to fit your needs.
- User experience/human-computer interaction
- Journalism
- Entrepreneurship
- Business analytics
- Creative writing
- Nonprofit leadership
- Political science
- Global & international studies
- Human resources management
NOTE: Not all minors listed are available online. Please check with your advisor for the most up-to-date programming.