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"It's important for students to give themselves as many career options as possible by the time they graduate ... The 4+1 program does that and more."

Bernie Ankney, Ph.D., School of Communication dean

Beginning Fall 2022, Point Park University's School of Communication is offering an accelerated, dual degree 4+1 program.

Our distinctive 4+1 program gives students an affordable opportunity to earn both a Bachelor's degree — and a Master of Arts in public relations, advertising and social media — in five years. 

"It's important for students to give themselves as many career options as possible by the time they graduate," said Bernie Ankney, Ph.D., School of Communication dean. "The 4+1 program makes you employable in two, three or four areas." 

Ankney added: "For example, a broadcasting student would leave Point Park prepared for a career in broadcast reporting and production, public relations, advertising and social media. I believe students should have a plan A, B and C by the time they graduate. The 4+1 program does that and more."

How the 4+1 Program Works

The 4+1 program allows you to apply to the M.A. PR, advertising and social media program during your junior year, and if accepted, take 12 credits of graduate classes during your senior year (six credits in the fall and six credits in the spring). Students must carry a minimum 3.0 GPA and be admitted into the graduate program in order to pursue this degree. 

In your fifth year, you would then take the remaining graduate credits to complete your M.A. degree. 

The 4+1 M.A. in PR, advertising and social media is available to students in the following undergraduate programs: 


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