Bachelor's Degree (BA, BS) in Integrated Strategic Communication
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor’s degree in Integrated Strategic Communication is perfect for students interested in advertising, public relations, social media or brand strategy. We are a hands-on program that prepares students for exciting jobs like brand manager, social media manager, marketing director, creative director, corporate communications manager, account manager, digital content creator and more.
Program Overview
The Integrated Strategic Communication program provides a foundation in audience analysis, data analytics, visual communication, advertising and public relations ethics, and marketing research. Building on these core principles, students then explore coursework aligned with their personal interests and career goals like: creative strategy, crisis communication, advertising & AI, digital media, event planning, sales promotion and sponsorship, sports branding and promotion, and more. Students shape their passions into professions while learning alongside experts in the field and working with real-world clients.
Our Accreditation
Our program is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC), a mark of excellence in journalism and mass communication education. This accreditation assures students that our curriculum meets rigorous industry standards and prepares graduates for successful careers in media, communications, and related fields.
Related Careers
- Account Executive
- Media Buyer & Planner
- Advertising and Social Media Copywriter
- Event Planner
- Public Relations Specialist
- Direct Marketing Manager
- Content Marketing Manager
- Social Media Campaign Coordinator
- Brand Manager
- Creative Director
- Digital Content Manager
- Digital Advertising Specialist
- Influencer Relations Manager
- Sales Promotion Specialist
- Sports Promotion Manager
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Program Specific Requirements
Students apply and enter this program as "Pre-Integrated Strategic Communication" majors. Students are fully admitted to the program when they complete the pre-major requirements. View specifics in the Academic Catalog.
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2026 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2026
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Students in the Integrated Strategic Communication (ISC) program learn to develop and execute strategic communication plans across areas such as advertising, public relations, direct response, and social media promotion. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, persuasive writing, and presentation skills to prepare students for a variety of roles in agencies, media, corporations, and nonprofits. Through hands-on experiences, internships, and student organizations, ISC majors gain real-world insights and build professional networks before graduation. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a master's degree, AMP can save you time and money with dual credit hours by signing-up when you have earned between 60-105 credit hours as an undergraduate student at UK.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
Register Now"I've been able to use the knowledge obtained from ISC and build upon it with real-world experience ... Majoring in this field of study equipped me with the tools necessary to be successful across multiple business sectors, cultures and countries."
Michelle
Associate Brand Manager at Mars, Inc.
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Tuition Rate
For residents of the states listed below, this program qualifies you to receive the University of Kentucky's in-state tuition rate through the Academic Common Marketplace.
Alabama
Delaware
South Carolina
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the CI Connect Living Learning Program
Live with and learn from others in the College of Communication and Information! LLP students will not only make meaningful connections with the LLP members who share their same major interests, but will also make solid connections with CI faculty and staff, who routinely use their own personal networks to help launch students into their careers.
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
