Communications and Public Policy St. Thomas University

Overview

The Communications and Public Policy programme at St. Thomas University offers a comprehensive exploration of how communication strategies influence the creation and implementation of public policy. Students engage with the complexities of participatory democracy while developing the practical skills required for modern professional environments.

This degree stands out as the only undergraduate major of its kind in Canada to integrate policy studies throughout all four years of the curriculum. By focusing on the relationship between citizens and governing bodies, the course ensures that graduates understand the theoretical underpinnings of political discourse alongside the technical demands of media production and strategic messaging.

Why Communications and Public Policy at St. Thomas University?

The university provides a distinctive educational experience by combining academic rigour with extensive practical application. A defining feature of the programme is the inclusion of mandatory for-credit internships during the upper years of study. These placements allow students to build professional networks and enhance their resumes before graduation.

Students have the opportunity to complete supervised internships within professional agencies, government offices, and non-profit organisations. Partners such as Ignite Fredericton, Naveco Power, and Planet Hatch offer real-world environments where students can apply their knowledge of rhetoric, ethics, and digital media to solve complex communication challenges.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 20322 per year
• National fee: CAD 8869 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Writing
• Rhetoric
• Ethics and Social Responsibility
• Social Media

Careers with Communications and Public Policy

Graduates are equipped with advanced skills in multimedia, critical thinking, and public speaking, making them highly competitive in the global job market. The unique combination of policy expertise and practical communication tools prepares students for diverse roles in government and the private sector.

Common career paths for alumni include positions in journalism, public relations, and marketing. Many graduates also find success as communications professionals within non-profit organisations or pursue roles in business development and governmental affairs, leveraging their deep understanding of how organisations communicate effectively with the public.