Apr 02, 2026  
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog

Media and Communication Major, B.A. (Public Relations and Social Media Management Concentration)


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Department Information


Department of Media and Communication
PO Box 70669
Phone: (423) 439-5575

Click here to visit the website.

The Media and Communication major provides students a dynamic, experiential media education serving a wide range of media careers such as journalism, advertising, public relations, marketing communication, social media, sports media, radio, television and film as well as streaming media and event planning experiences. Major core coursework provides students with a foundation while course flexibility in writing, research, and production course blocks give students the ability to design a unique program to meet their career goals. Professional development and course direction are overseen by department advising/mentoring. Through experiences with real-world clients, students gain the skills and knowledge they need for success in this growing profession. Study abroad opportunities are available.

To complete the degree in Media and Communication, a student must complete a total of 120 credits of course work. In addition to the University’s General Education requirements, students must complete 51 credits of major courses. A 2.0 grade point average must be obtained in the major, the minor, and overall at ETSU in order to graduate. Prior to graduation, students must also complete a major field test in addition to the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST).

For general information about the department or courses, contact Dr. Robert Dunn, Chair dunnra@etsu.edu or (423) 439-4170. For advising, contact Ben Sherrill sherrillb@etsu.edu; 423-439-5345.

Degree Requirements: 120 credits


Compass Core Curriculum

40-43 credits
Major Total Requirement 51 credits
      Major Core    (21 credits)
     Concentration    (27 credits)
     Capstone    (3 credits)
Foreign Language 3 credits
Minor 18-24 credits
Free Electives 0-8 credits
TOTAL 120 credits

Media and Communication Major, B.A. (Public Relations and Social Media Management Concentration) Suggested Four-Year Program of Study 

B.A. Degree Requirements:

  • Completion of a foreign language course numbered 2020 or above with a grade of C- or better. Students may be required to take courses numbered 1010, 1020 and/or 2010 based on a placement test or equivalent.

Compass Core Curriculum  

These requirements include earning 40-43 credits in Strengthening Foundations, Understanding Natural and Social Worlds, Exploring Connections, Cultivate Artistic Awareness, and Growing as an Individual and Global Citizen categories.

Media and Communication Major Core Requirements: 21 credits


Capstone: 3 credits


Free Electives: 0-8 credits


Major Field Test


A major field test is required for graduating students. Please see advisor for more information.

Minor Information


A minor is a secondary area of study outside of the major program of study with a structured curriculum composed of at least 15 credits, of which at least 6 credits must be at the 3000-level or above.

Additional Information


Click here to view Degree and Graduation Requirements  for all ETSU students.

For students considering a minor, check with your advisor to make sure a minor will fit within your intended program of study.

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