UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS IN
Why Study Rhetoric and Public Advocacy
Rhetoric is the oldest of the liberal arts. From the fifth century until today, humans have valued the ability to express ideas in a compelling way as something essential for self-government and the realization of freedom. If you have ever felt passionate about a cause, movement, or idea, studying rhetoric and public advocacy can help you acquire the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to inspire an audience, persuade skeptics, counter critics, and make a lasting impact on the world around you.
Persuasion in Practice
Learn to shape arguments; command presence; and move audiences across civic, cultural, and professional arenas.
Apply NowDegrees & Programs
The Bachelor of Arts in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy is a liberal arts communication program. Students acquire knowledge of the communication process and its historical evolution, along with analytical and practical skills needed to frame arguments, analyze messages, apply verbal and visual language strategically, and use their voices and bodies in compelling ways — timeless abilities that are important for a rewarding career path and engaged citizenship.
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES & PROGRAMS
BA in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy Minor in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy Minor in Organization CommunicationCareer Path & Outcomes
Your Hofstra degree will help you channel your interests and skills into many career options such as lawyer, teacher, public relations specialist, political strategist, campaign manager, lobbyist, corporate recruiter, corporate communications officer, speechwriter, patient advocate, event planner, museum director/educator, nonprofit administrator, fundraiser, or marketing/advertising professional. Based on a survey of recent graduates:
Graduates in rhetoric and public advocacy work at companies such as:
- AssuredPartners
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center
- East Meadow Union Free School District
- Northwell Health
- Ovation
Graduates pursuing advanced degrees study at:
- Columbia University
- CUNY School of Professional Studies
- Hofstra University
- New York Institute of Technology
- Rutgers University
- University of Central Florida
- University of Memphis
- Wayne State University
100%
Rhetoric and public advocacy majors who were employed or in graduate school within a year after graduating
100%
Employed graduates who accepted their positions within three months after graduating
75%
Graduates who completed at least one internship as part of their academic experience
From Argument to Action
Explore potential career paths, get real-world insights, develop valuable workplace skills, and build a network of professional contacts through internships, peer teaching opportunities, and student organizations.
Students Have Recently Interned At:
- Former New York State Senator James Gaughran’s Office
- Harlem School of the Arts
- National Alliance on Mental Illness
- Remember the Triangle Fire Coalition