Bachelor of Arts in Communication - Public Relations.

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Umm Al Quwain University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication at UAQU prepares students for careers in media, public relations, journalism, and new media by integrating theoretical understanding with practical media skills. It suits students interested in media production, communication strategy, and digital storytelling across traditional and contemporary platforms.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students build a foundation in communication and media basics alongside essential university requirements such as English, Arabic, computer applications, and statistics. They take core introductory units like Introduction to Journalism, Introduction to Public Relations, and Introduction to New Media, which develop basic skills in reporting, media writing, and understanding the evolving media landscape. This year sets the stage for deeper study by strengthening communication fundamentals and critical thinking.

Year 2

During the second year, students delve into key mass communication concepts and methodologies with courses such as Communication Theories, Media Ethics and Legislations, and Research Methodology. They explore the ethical frameworks, legal contexts of media practice, and research techniques essential for responsible media work. This year also includes units like Social Psychology and Introduction to Political Science to enrich students’ understanding of societal influences on communication.

Year 3

In the third year, the program becomes more specialized with track options. Journalism students take units like Digital Photography, Translation, and International Relations, refining visual storytelling and cross-cultural communication. New Media students engage with Social Networking and Blogging, Graphic Design and Infographics, and Multimedia Applications, gaining hands-on skills in digital content creation. Public Relations students focus on Writing for Public Relations, Public Relations Campaigns, and Integrated Marketing Communications, preparing for strategic communication roles.

Year 4

The final year emphasizes professional readiness through advanced media studies and experiential learning. Students complete senior units such as Crisis Management, Public Opinion, and Media and Development, depending on their specialization, to deepen strategic and analytical competence. The program culminates with a Graduation Project and a required Internship, giving real-world media experience and a portfolio that bridges academic study with industry practice.


Focus areas (in a string):

Media production, journalism, public relations, new media strategy, digital communication tools

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Graduates will critically understand media theories, produce ethical journalistic and PR content, apply research and multimedia skills, and adapt communication strategies to global media contexts.

Professional alignment (accreditation):

The program is accredited by the UAE’s Ministry of Education and aligns with industry standards in media communications.

Reputation (employability rankings):

Umm Al Quwain University is officially accredited by the UAE Commission for Academic Accreditation and recognized within the UAE higher education sector; specific QS or Guardian rankings for this program are not publicly listed.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This applied learning approach is structured around key facilities and mandatory experiences:

  • On-Campus Media Production Facilities: The program is centered around the UAEU Media Center, which includes a professional Television Studio, a Radio Broadcasting Studio, a digital Newsroom, and multimedia Editing Suites.

  • Industry-Standard Equipment and Software: Students train with professional-grade video cameras, audio recorders, and lighting kits. They use industry-standard software such as the Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere Pro, Audition, Photoshop) for editing and design, and broadcast automation systems in the radio and TV studios.

  • Mandatory Professional Internship: Students must complete a full-time, for-credit internship (often referred to as "Practical Training") at a media organization. Typical hosts include local and national newspapers, TV and radio stations, public relations firms, advertising agencies, and digital media companies in the UAE.

  • Capstone Media Project: In their final year, students undertake a significant senior project or thesis that involves producing a substantial piece of media work, such as a documentary, a full magazine issue, or a strategic communication campaign, from conception to execution.

  • Student Media Outlets: Students gain real experience by contributing to and managing student-run media, such as the university newspaper, radio station broadcasts, and online media channels.

  • Workshops and Guest Lectures: The program regularly hosts workshops and lectures by media professionals, journalists, PR executives, and filmmakers to provide current industry insights and networking opportunities.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Umm Al Quwain University's Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication develop skills in journalism, public relations, and new media, securing roles across UAE media sectors through practical training. Typical job roles include public relations officer, press reporter, photojournalist, and website editor in media outlets and organizations.​

Progression & Future Opportunities: Program supports labor market entry:

  • Career services: internships, job placement, workshops for media roles.​

  • Salaries: AED 50k–90k entry-level in UAE mass communication.​

  • Partnerships: local media/PR firms for practical applications.​

  • Ministry-accredited (2019) for UAE/Arab region recognition.​

  • Outcomes: communication theories via journalism/PR tracks.​

Further Academic Progression: Pursue master's in digital communication at UAQU; builds on bachelor's for advanced media research.​

Program Key Stats

AED38,817 (annual fee)
AED38,817 (annual fee)
Sept Intake : 30th Jul


70 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

N/A
-
60

N/A
N/A
4.5
45
- - -

Additional Information & Requirements

Country Requirements

Career Options

  • Journalist
  • Reporter
  • News Editor
  • Broadcast Journalist
  • Radio Presenter
  • Television Producer
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Media Relations Manager
  • Corporate Communications Officer
  • Advertising Account Executive
  • Copywriter
  • Content Strategist
  • Digital Media Specialist
  • Social Media Manager
  • Media Planner
  • Communications Officer
  • Press Secretary
  • Documentary Filmmaker
  • Photojournalist
  • News Anchor
  • Magazine Editor
  • Multimedia Journalist
  • Media Researcher
  • Public Affairs Consultant

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts