Program Availability
The online Public Advocacy Communication Graduate Certificate is open to U.S. and international applicants who satisfy admission requirements.
Generally, if students have access to Internet service, they can be admitted to and complete this online program. However, international students must be living abroad, or else must hold a visa status that allows them to study online while living in the U.S., to be admitted. Demonstration of English Language Proficiency is also required.
Students residing in countries where government restrictions or firewalls restrict Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) access or functionality cannot participate in this program.
Why Earn a Public Advocacy Communication Graduate Certificate at Indiana State?
Advocacy is a key communication skill for any career. This certificate program addresses the need for advocacy skills by offering thorough preparation in the use, theory, construction, and analysis of public messages while preparing you for success in a variety of fields.
Benefit from a Program Designed for Working Professionals
The online Public Advocacy Communication Graduate Certificate is a 15-credit program that includes five courses in the areas of research/creativity, cross-cultural communication, public campaigns, and social media.
A major benefit of this program is its flexibility. Taking advantage of the online format, you can work full-time while completing your coursework. The certificate can be completed in three to four semesters (excluding summer terms).
Coursework from other colleges and universities does not count toward completion of the program. Individuals have the option of completing the certificate or enrolling in one or more courses.
Upon successful completion of this program, you will be awarded a certificate of completion.
Note: Coursework in this certificate program may be applied toward completion of the University’s on-campus Master of Arts in Communication.
Course Delivery
Selected courses in this certificate program are offered asynchronously, with no set meeting dates or times. Other courses are only offered synchronously. Dates and times for these courses are listed in the class schedule.
Learn from Our Excellent Faculty
Faculty in the Department of Communication at Indiana State University will assist you in your professional development through personalized attention and mentorship. Many of our professors have award-winning professional experience in media, marketing, advertising, and related communication fields, in addition to their extensive academic and research credentials.
What You’ll Learn in the Online Public Advocacy Communication Graduate Certificate Program
Our online Public Advocacy Communication Graduate Certificate provides training in individual public communication skills, ethical communication principles, and strategic message design targeting diverse audiences—and also provides a foundation for the analysis and evaluation of advocacy discourse.
Career Possibilities for Public Advocacy Communication Graduates
Our online Graduate Certificate in Public Advocacy Communication provides valuable skills in research, communication, strategic planning, and coalition-building that are transferable to diverse career paths in advocacy, government, nonprofit organizations, public relations, and related occupations.
As a result of complex social, economic, and environmental challenges, there is increasing demand for skilled advocates who can effectively address these issues through policy change, public awareness campaigns, and community organizing.
The rise of digital communication technologies and social media has transformed advocacy efforts, creating opportunities for professionals who can leverage these platforms to mobilize supporters, raise awareness, and influence public opinion.
Admission Requirements and Application Instructions
The Office of Admissions reviews applications year-round for graduate certificate programs offered by the Department of Communication. Once enrolled, you may begin courses in the next term (fall, spring, summer).
Returning Indiana State University students must apply for re-admission if they have not attended the University in more than two calendar years.
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
Admission Requirements
Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree granted by a regionally accredited institution (for international students, a degree granted by a recognized institution).
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.7 in all undergraduate coursework
Applicants must submit a one-page statement of intent. This is a written statement explaining your reasons for entering the program, including specific areas of interest and professional goals that you hope the certificate will help you achieve.
International Applicants: To be considered for admission, applicants must have evidence of English Language Proficiency sent directly from the testing center to: Indiana State University, Graduate Admissions, Welcome Center, 318 North Sixth Street, Terre Haute, IN, 47809. Accepted language tests include Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or Duolingo. For other important information about language proficiency testing and requirements, visit IndianaState.edu/English-testing.
The GRE (Graduate Record Exam) is not required.
Application Instructions
Complete your online application for program admission at apply.indstate.edu/portal/apply?tab=overview.
Submit a nonrefundable application fee of $45.00 (or $55.00 for international students) payable by Visa, MasterCard, or check or money order to: Indiana State University, Graduate Admissions, Welcome Center, 318 North Sixth Street, Terre Haute, IN, 47809.
Submit official transcripts from all colleges previously attended. To be official, transcripts must be sent directly from the college attended to: Graduate Admissions, Indiana State University, Welcome Center, 318 North Sixth Street, Terre Haute, IN, 47809. E-transcripts should be sent to admissions@indstate.edu.
International applicants must submit credential evaluation in addition to undergraduate transcripts and may be required to submit additional documentation to ensure full evaluation. We do accept credential evaluation reports from these select members of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
Applicants must submit a one-page statement of intent. This is a written statement explaining your reasons for entering the program, including specific areas of interest and professional goals that you hope the certificate will help you achieve.
International Applicants: To be considered for admission, applicants must have evidence of English Language Proficiency sent directly from the testing center to: Indiana State University, Graduate Admissions, Welcome Center, 318 North Sixth Street, Terre Haute, IN, 47809. Accepted language tests include Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or Duolingo. For other important information about language proficiency testing and requirements, visit This Link.
Next Steps
Once admitted, students receive notification from the University as well as their University ID number needed to activate their University Username in the MyISU Portal. The Portal offers access to online registration, University records, and other important University services, including e-mail and University announcements.
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