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Breadcrumb
  1. Programs

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

In this section
  • Overview
  • Program description
  • Program delivery
  • Courses
  • Faculty
  • Transfer agreements
  • Admission requirements
  • Application requirements
  • Financial aid and awards
  • Request more info

Clear communication moves solutions forward. Study the art of persuasion through writing, public relations, journalism and digital communications, all within a framework of media and cultural studies.

Program intakes

Filter to view upcoming intakes

March 27, 2023

Program variation
Degree completion - 3rd and 4th years
Start date
March 27, 2023
Application deadline
February 27, 2023
Delivery model
Blended
Entry point
Third Year
Domestic tuition
$ 18,178 CAD
International tuition
$ 44,125 CAD
Related Schedules
Program Schedule
Payment Schedule

September 18, 2023

Program variation
Degree completion - 3rd and 4th years
Start date
September 18, 2023
Application deadline
June 18, 2023
Delivery model
On Campus
Entry point
Third Year
Domestic tuition
$ 18,542 CAD
International tuition
$ 45,890 CAD
Related Schedules
Program Schedule

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Program description

Language, media, culture, technology.

Study these, and learn how clear communication moves solutions forward in business and society.

In the Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication program, you'll become adept at professional writing, public relations, journalism, public speaking and digital communications.

You'll learn to persuade through words, graphics and storytelling.

You'll know what communication tools are available to you and how to use them.

All of this you'll study within a larger framework of media and cultural studies, sustainability, Indigenous contexts and globalization.

As a graduate, you'll have an education that balances classroom learning, professional experience, creativity and practical skills.

Study abroad

Customize your studies with a perspective-shifting international experience.

You can choose to study abroad for a semester at one of our partner universities in Sweden or Spain.

Learn more about studying abroad.

Who it’s for

This program is a good fit for students interested in a career in public relations, advertising, marketing and journalism, as well as corporate, technical and online communication.

Group work is an integral aspect of the curriculum and helps build necessary skills

Program delivery

Program options

There are two program options for the Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication:

  1. coming soon: four-year undergraduate degree for students typically entering from high school (or equivalent)
  2. Third-year entry (years three and four) for eligible students. This program can be completed in 12 months (on campus) or 24 months (blended).

First-year entry (four-year undergraduate degree)

Coming September 2024. Accepting applications in the near future. Please check regularly for updates.

A new undergraduate experience for students coming from high school is on the way.

For future changemakers. The passionate an the curious. Those who are ready to take action.

Learn more at www.royalroads.ca/challenge.

Third-year entry (degree completion options)

You can complete this program in one of two ways:

  • on-campus intensive over 12 months
  • blended over 24 months

12-month intensive

The intensive option is ideal if you want to immerse yourself in your studies.

You'll take double the course load of the 24-month blended program and complete your degree in a shorter amount of time.

This program is delivered entirely on campus.

Studying on campus brings you together with your class colleagues and instructors. Expect the program to be rigorous. You’ll do homework, readings and team assignments outside of your full-time class hours.

You'll start your program with a non-credit, but required, course about academic integrity.

24-month blended

This two-year blended program includes online courses and on-campus residencies.

Online learning

Online courses consist of assigned readings, synchronous or asynchronous lectures and interactive discussions, and individual and team assignments.

You’re expected to meet deadlines and contribute meaningfully to your class. Your contributions are a big part of everyone’s learning.

You'll take one or two courses at a time. Courses last approximately 10 weeks, and each one requires approximately 12 to 15 hours of work per week.

You'll start your program with a non-credit, but required, course about academic integrity.

Residencies

This blended program has two two-week residencies.

Residencies are intensive and immersive. Many students say this time together is the highlight of their program.

During your residency, you can expect to:

  • attend classes full time (e.g., Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • complete homework and individual and team assignments outside of class hours
  • take part in extracurricular activities

Courses

ITAI

Introduction to Academic Integrity

0.0 Credits

COMMPRP

Career Management for Professional Communication

0.0 Credits

COMM329

Historical and Conceptual Foundations in Digital Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM352

Public Persuasion

3.0 Credits

COMM392

Communication Planning and Stakeholder Engagement

3.0 Credits

COMM300

Foundations of Professional Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM310

Communication Theory

3.0 Credits

COMM320

Professional Written Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM350

Interpersonal Communication Across Cultures

3.0 Credits

COMM330

Advanced Digital Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM365

Media and Cultural Studies

3.0 Credits

COMM420

Multimedia Storytelling

3.0 Credits

COMM375

Visual Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM423

Strategic Internal and External Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM443

Communication in Indigenous Contexts

3.0 Credits

COMM464

Sustainability Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM484

Current Topics in Contemporary Communications Practice

3.0 Credits

COMM400

Professional Experience in Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM435

Research Methods in Professional Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM415

Global Communication

3.0 Credits

COMM490

Capstone and Portfolio

3.0 Credits

COMM445

Crisis Communication

3.0 Credits

Faculty

Aiden Buckland

Associate faculty

Barb Collombin

Associate faculty

Bev McPhee

Associate faculty

Chaseten Remillard

Associate professor

Program head

David Black

Associate professor

Portrait of Deniz Unsal
Deniz Ünsal

Assistant professor

Diane Dakers

Associate faculty

Dwayne Beaver

Associate faculty

Portrait of Kristina Sviderskyte at Royal Roads University
G. Kristina Sviderskyte

Associate faculty

Gareth Kirkby

Associate faculty

Geo Takach

Professor

Program head

Gordon White

Associate faculty

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Transfer agreements

Refine results

Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology

Advertising and Marketing Communications Management, Broadcasting - Radio or Television, Photography, Professional Writing, Public Relations, Journalism

Royal Roads University

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

B. K. Shroff College of Arts and M. H. Shroff College of Commerce

Bachelor of Mass Media Years 1 & 2

Royal Roads University

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

British Columbia Institute of Technology

Journalism and radio, TV, video production

Royal Roads University

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

Cambrian College

Public Relations advanced diploma

Royal Roads University

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

Camosun College

Associate of Arts degrees, Arts and Science Studies diplomas

Royal Roads University

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

Cañada College

Business Administration, Associate in Science Degree

Royal Roads University

Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management

Bachelor of Arts in International Hotel Management

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

Bachelor of Business Administration

Centennial College

Diploma in Advertising & Marketing Communications; Animation; Game Art/Game Development; Graphic Design; Journalism; Music Industry; Theatre; Broadcasting; Digital Visual Effects; Fine Arts Studio

Royal Roads University

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

College of New Caledonia

Associate of Arts Degree; Business Management Diploma (Marketing or Web Design)

Royal Roads University

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

College of San Mateo

Business Administration, Associate in Science Degree

Royal Roads University

Bachelor of Arts in Global Tourism Management

Bachelor of Arts in International Hotel Management

Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication

Bachelor of Business Administration

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First-year entry (4-year undergraduate degree)

First-year entry is for students coming from high school (or equivalent). Please review the year 1 admission and application requirements for more information. 

Third-year entry (degree completion - 3rd & 4th year)

Standard admission

  • Completion of a diploma, or 60 credits, in communication, journalism, business administration, or general arts, including a minimum of 24 second-year credits, with a minimum GPA of 'B' (3.00/4.33) from a recognized post-secondary institution.
  • Block transfer agreements: Communication

Flexible admission

Applicants who do not meet the standard admission requirements will be considered for flexible admission and assessed as follows:

  • Normally, a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in the areas of communication, public relations, journalism or other related fields.
  • Evidence of having sufficient knowledge, skills and abilities to complete a demanding academic course of study.

English Language Proficiency

  • If English is not your primary language, please review our English language requirements.

Additional Recommendations

  • Academic writing skills are required for success in this program and an English composition course focused on academic writing is therefore recommended. The Academic Writing and Critical Thinking course offered through Continuing Studies at Royal Roads University meets this recommendation.

First-year entry (4-year undergraduate degree)

First-year entry is for students coming from high school (or equivalent). Please review the year 1 admission and application requirements for more information. 

Third-year entry (degree completion - 3rd & 4th year)

If you've completed some university or college courses, you may be eligible for the degree completion option, comprising of years 3 & 4 of this program. Before your file can be assessed for admission, the following information & supporting documents are required for entry to third year.  

Application form

In order to apply online, you will be required to create a log-in account using your email address. You will be required to list all credit courses and/or programs you have completed or are currently enrolled in. If your application fees are being paid by a third party, review sponsored student information. Once submitted, you may check the status of your application at any time.

Official transcripts

Applicants are responsible for arranging for the submission of official transcripts from ALL post-secondary (higher education) institutions currently or previously attended, for all credit courses and/or programs. Transcripts are not required for non-credit programs or courses, though some programs may require proof of professional certifications or designations.

Transcripts are considered official only if submitted directly by the Registrar or other recognized authority of the providing institution in the institution's original, sealed envelope. If the envelope has been opened, the transcripts are no longer official and new (official) transcripts will be required to complete your application.

All international transcripts or credentials are subject to an international transcript and/or credential evaluation.

If applicable:

  • Applicants declaring permanent resident or Convention Refugee status in Canada, must submit a copy of their Permanent Resident Card (PR card) along with their application.
  • Transcript evaluation fee or credential evaluation report, if submitting international transcripts.
  • An official English language proficiency score report or other evidence of proficiency if English is not your primary language.
  • Other information or documents as may be requested to determine your eligibility.

For information on how and where to send your supporting documents, please refer to the document submission guidelines.

Additional requirements for flexible admission

For applicants who will be reviewed under the flexible admission process the following additional supporting documents will be required:

Personal statement

Your personal statement should be at least a two-page letter indicating your motivation for seeking entrance to the program. Your statement should comment upon your personal and career goals, the expectations you have for the program in relation to the achievement of your goals, and the strengths you feel you can bring to the program. Please expand upon why you think your life and work experience and/or related formal education and courses merit adjudication under the Flexible Admission process.

Letters of reference

Your two letters of reference should consist of the following : 

  • Academic Reference: This letter should attest to your performance in the context of your current or previous studies. The letter can address such areas as academic achievement, study skills, teamwork, leadership potential, human relations, flexibility, communication, and technical skills. 
  • Professional Reference: This letter should attest to your current or previous performance in your professional life. The letter can address areas such as communication skills, interpersonal and leadership skills, management potential, work ethic, etc.

Detailed résumé

  • Education: List all post-secondary education, degrees, diplomas, and certificates you have achieved. 
  • Work Experience: Please include name of organization, position, length of service (month and year), and a brief description of duties.
  • Voluntary / Unpaid Work Experience: List and describe any voluntary/unpaid post-secondary employment and/or community service experience. Please include the name of the organization, length of service, and a brief description of duties. List positions you have held in this service.
  • Information Technology Training and Experience: Briefly describe your level of training and experience in the use of information technology including computers, software and telecommunications networks as tools for business, education, teaching and personal use.
  • English Language Skills: List English (and related) courses completed, which will also appear on your official transcript(s). Include any other experience of written or spoken English (e.g. published writing, prizes and awards, debating club membership, etc.) that may assist us in adjudicating your application for admission.
  • Professional memberships/affiliations: List memberships and positions you hold/have held in professional associations, service clubs, community/volunteer sector.
  • Other relevant information: Provide any other information which you believe is relevant to your application and will be of assistance to the review committee.

Portfolio (upon request)

Your portfolio should include digital samples (disk or flash drive) of completed work such as projects you have managed, reports, published writing, syllabus outlines of courses you have taught, etc. A portfolio is especially useful for those applicants who have career experience but lack the formal requirements for admission and wish to apply through our Flexible Admission process.

For information on how and where to send your supporting documents, please refer to the document submission guidelines.

Financial aid and awards

Refine results

RBC Community Integrated Learning Grants

Funding for students completing a required career learning and development (CLD) work term in the community of at least 420 hours with an organization that cannot provide wages or compensation.

Up to $8,500

Development

ACT WEST Community Foundation Fund

The ACT WEST Community Foundation helps support single mothers build better lives for themselves and their children.

up to 4 years tuition

External

Single Parents

Admiral John Charles and Mary Charles Scholarship

Awarded annually to a second year School of Humanitarian Studies student who is currently serving or retired military.

$1,500

Active students (In-course)

AEBC/Allyant Scholarship

The Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) works to improve the lives of blind, deafblind and partially sighted Canadians...

From $1,500 to $2,500

External

Allan Cahoon Global Advancement and Diversity Award

Assist students in underrepresented populations who wish to promote diversity.

$1,000

Active students (In-course)

Allan Cahoon Scholarship

This scholarship aims to encourage academic excellence, supporting students who excel both academically and through their leadership.

$1,500

Active students (In-course)

Andrea Fallan Memorial Bursary

Provides financial assistance to a second year BCom student for exceptional leadership, community involvement, and dedication to promote a cohesive team environment.

$500

Active students (In-course)

Asper Foundation Communications Award

Awarded to students in communications-related degree working in, or seeking to work in the communications industry.

$5,000

Active students (In-course)

Assistance Program for Students with Permanent Disabilities

This program helps students with permanent disabilities pay for exceptional education-related services and adaptive equipment.

Up to $12,144/year

External

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