Strategic Communications, Social Media & Society specialization

What is the Strategic Communications, Social Media & Society specialization?

Communications and digital media are everywhere and in everything. Journalists, public affairs officers, content creators, entertainment makers, branding experts, digital storytellers, social media influencers, consumers, activists and citizens use all kinds of media every day to create, send, and receive messages and images about the world, with the goal of changing it in some way. In the Specialized Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Digital Media Studies (CDMS) - Strategic Communication, Social Media and Society, students learn about the fast-changing strategic and social media communications environment in which a wide range of communicators, from companies to governments to militaries to political parties to non-profit advocacy and activist movements, use social media platforms such as Twitter, TikTok and YouTube to inform, influence and change society. Strategic communication encompasses PR, public affairs, advertising, propaganda, media activism and online influence, and represents how all organizations, groups and individuals in our digital society undertake purposeful goal-oriented communication to effect change. In the Strategic Communication, Social Media & Society specialization, you will analyze strategic communications in relation to the economics, politics, technologies, and cultures of the Internet and social media platforms, and hone knowledge and skills linked to thousands of new 21st century careers. Check out our postcard for a snapshot of what you will learn and possible careers.

How can I apply and be admitted to the CDMS program? 

Although admission to the CDMS - Strategic Communication, Social Media and Society program is competitive, the specific grade average required for admission varies from year to year and preference will be given to applicants with the best qualifications. At a minimum, current Ontario secondary school student applicants to the program must complete the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with six 4U or 4M credits including English (ENG4U), and demonstrate proof of English-language proficiency. To learn more about the admissions process and apply, visit our Undergraduate Admissions website.

Experiential Learning:

To learn more about the CDMS - Strategic Communication, Social Media and Society program’s  experiential learning opportunities (including Co-op, the practicum, the internship, and community engagement projects), check out the Faculty of Social Science and Humanities’ Experiential Learning Office.

What courses will I experience to earn my CDMS degree? 

Visit Communication and Digital Media Studies in our Academic Calendar for program maps and course descriptions. Be sure to select the correct year of study from the dropdown menu in the top-right corner of the page.