Public Interest Communication
** available as of 06/15/2026
** available as of 06/15/2026
Prerequisites: COMM 175.
This course introduces students to the field of public interest communication--an evidence-based, interdisciplinary approach to using strategic communication for social good. Drawing from research and practice in communication, psychology, political science, and systems thinking, students learn how communication can shape public understanding, influence behavior, and support collective action. Through theory, case studies, and applied assignments, students develop skills in audience analysis, message design, and campaign evaluation while considering ethical implications and real-world applications in areas such as nonprofit advocacy, journalism, and corporate responsibility.
Outcomes: Describe and analyze the key components of public interest communication; Assess the effectiveness of at least one public interest campaign using appropriate theoretical and methodological frameworks; Design a strategic, public interest communication campaign plan that includes clear goals, target audiences, strategies, timelines, ethical implications and evaluation metrics.\\n
This course introduces students to the field of public interest communication--an evidence-based, interdisciplinary approach to using strategic communication for social good. Drawing from research and practice in communication, psychology, political science, and systems thinking, students learn how communication can shape public understanding, influence behavior, and support collective action. Through theory, case studies, and applied assignments, students develop skills in audience analysis, message design, and campaign evaluation while considering ethical implications and real-world applications in areas such as nonprofit advocacy, journalism, and corporate responsibility.
Outcomes: Describe and analyze the key components of public interest communication; Assess the effectiveness of at least one public interest campaign using appropriate theoretical and methodological frameworks; Design a strategic, public interest communication campaign plan that includes clear goals, target audiences, strategies, timelines, ethical implications and evaluation metrics.\\n