Communication - Audiences and Persuasion
The Communication: Audiences and Persuasion Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of communication theory, audience analysis, and the strategies of persuasive messaging. The curriculum integrates rhetorical theory, media studies, psychology of communication, research methodology, and public speaking, enabling students to examine how messages are constructed, delivered, and interpreted across diverse contexts. Students engage in research projects, campaign design, and media analysis, developing analytical, creative, and practical skills necessary to influence, inform, and engage audiences effectively.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, workshops, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in communication, media psychology, and rhetorical studies. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research proficiency, and applied communication strategies, preparing graduates to design and evaluate persuasive messages, analyze audience behavior, and apply theory to professional communication contexts. Students leave the program with research competence, analytical skills, persuasive communication expertise, and critical reasoning, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in communication, marketing, media, or public relations.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Communication - Audiences and Persuasion
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Communication Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Communication
- Introduction to Communication Studies
- Principles of Rhetoric and Persuasion
- Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
- Media Literacy and Cultural Contexts
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Audiences and Persuasion
- Audience Analysis and Behavioral Insights
- Media and Society
- Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
- Electives: Digital Media, Advertising, or Political Communication
Year 3 – Advanced Communication Strategies
- Persuasion in Organizational and Public Contexts
- Applied Research Projects in Communication
- Campaign Design and Evaluation
- Electives: Social Influence, Strategic Communication, or Cross-Cultural Communication
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Communication Challenges
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Media, Marketing, or Public Relations
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Audiences and Persuasion program are prepared for careers in marketing and advertising, public relations, media analysis, strategic communication, political campaigns, and research institutions. Alumni may work as communication strategists, campaign analysts, public relations specialists, or pursue graduate studies in communication, media studies, marketing, or organizational leadership. The program equips graduates to understand audience behavior, craft persuasive messaging, and analyze communication effectiveness. With strong research, analytical, and communication skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on strategic and persuasive communication.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of rhetorical analysis, audience research, media strategy, and applied communication within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, hands-on projects, and experiential learning that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in marketing, media, and public relations. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, persuasive reasoning, and interdisciplinary approaches, preparing graduates to design effective communication strategies, influence audiences, and engage meaningfully with diverse media and organizational contexts. For students passionate about understanding persuasion, audience dynamics, and media influence, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
