Strategic Communications & Digital Marketing Post-degree Diploma
Programs Page
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Prepare for a dynamic career as a skilled communicator and digital strategist in both corporate and non-profit sectors. This program offers a strong foundation in strategic communication and public relations while integrating specialized training in digital marketing and social media management.
With a focus on best practices and emerging industry trends, students gain the tools and knowledge to navigate the evolving communications landscape, tackle complex challenges, and lead impactful campaigns. The program emphasizes the development of effective strategies for digital platforms, equipping graduates with the skills to build engagement, manage reputations, and drive business success through integrated communication and marketing efforts.
Graduates are uniquely positioned to excel in a wide range of industries, blending the art of communication with the science of digital marketing.
This program is PGWP-eligible under CIP Code: 52.1404 Digital Marketing
International
Hybrid
Application Deadlines
When Should I Apply?
Applications open one year before each program start date.
We strongly advise applicants to apply early as space is limited and demand for full-time programs is extremely high.
Key Application Deadline
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For programs that start in January, applications open one year in advance and close Sep. 15 the year prior to the year the programs runs (EXAMPLE: program starts Jan. 2, 2025; apps open Jan 15, 2024, apps close Sep 15, 2024).
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For programs that start in May, applications open one year in advance and close Jan. 15 the year the program runs (EXAMPLE: program starts May 2, 2025; apps open May 15, 2024; apps close Jan 15, 2025).
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For programs that start in September, applications open one year in advance and close May 15 the year the programs runs (EXAMPLE: program starts Sep. 2, 2025; apps open Sep 15, 2024, apps close May 15, 2025).
NOTE: This program may reach capacity prior to application deadline.
*Note if you do not see the program listed on the online application portal, we have reached capacity and are no longer accepting applications.
Tuition & Fees
$18,150: Tuition includes UWSA and health insurance fees. Costs are subject to change.
$2,500-$3,000: Textbook costs may vary depending on new, rental, used, or electronic purchasing choices. Textbooks are a requirement.
Learn more about International Students tuition & fees and payment options here.
Duration
12 months in duration, Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm.
Two breaks of one week throughout the program and two weeks off for winter break.
Hybrid Program
This PACE program features a hybrid delivery model, with approximately 20% of the courses offered through virtual online classrooms. This innovative approach balances in-person learning with the convenience of online study.
Online courses are strategically integrated throughout the program schedule, allowing students to regularly engage with classmates and instructors in person while benefiting from greater flexibility. On remote learning days, students can choose to work from home, skip their commute, or take advantage of campus study spaces and lounges.
Our hybrid model is designed to enhance students' school-life balance while fostering essential workplace skills like collaboration, accountability, adaptability, and effective communication—all within a supportive learning environment.
This flexible format maintains all the benefits of in-person education and does not affect PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit) eligibility.
Objectives & Outcomes
The Strategic Communications & Digital Marketing Diploma prepares graduates to excel in the ever-changing fields of communications and digital marketing by equipping them with advanced skills in strategic planning, digital engagement, and public relations. This program emphasizes the integration of traditional and digital approaches to communication, empowering graduates to lead effective campaigns, build brand awareness, and foster meaningful relationships with stakeholders across various platforms and industries.
Outcomes
- Strategic Analysis and Influence: Identify, analyze, and align organizational objectives with communication strategies, while effectively engaging key interest groups and stakeholders.
- Advising Leadership: Guide management on critical business, communications, and policy decisions through strategic insights and data-driven recommendations.
- Public Relations Strategy Development: Create public relations strategies that build awareness, shape favorable perceptions, promote products and services, and set measurable objectives to evaluate effectiveness.
- Relationship Building and Collaboration: Foster strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, public interest groups, clients, and the media to enhance communication efforts and support organizational goals.
- Media Relations Expertise: Design and implement media relations strategies to enhance visibility, credibility, and community engagement.
- Market Analysis and Innovation: Analyze consumer behavior, employ marketing tools and research methodologies to assess market trends, and develop innovative products and services to increase market share.
- Mastery of Communication Tools: Create professional communication materials, including press kits, news releases, newsletters, annual reports, brochures, and personality profiles, tailored to diverse audiences.
- Crisis and Change Management: Plan and lead crisis communication efforts and effectively manage organizational change to protect reputation and maintain stakeholder trust.
- Promotional Publication Development: Coordinate and produce content for internal and external promotional materials, overseeing the planning, editing, and distribution of high-quality publications.
- Digital Integration and Adaptation: Gain expertise in adapting traditional communication materials for digital platforms and leveraging digital technologies to enhance public relations and marketing strategies.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
- International students are required to hold a minimum of an undergraduate degree (education related to marketing and/or communications is preferred).
- A Higher National Diploma from Nigeria and Ghana are exceptions
- The Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) or Final Percentage on these transcripts will be assessed for eligibility.
- If a higher degree is attained (post-graduate diploma, Master’s, or PhD) the minimum GPA or Percentage must be attained in all degrees.
For complete admission details by country, please visit our detailed Admission Requirements for international students.
Work Experience
Public Relations and Strategic Communication Diploma applicants must have a minimum of 6 months of professional work experience. Preference may be given to applicants with work experience related to communications and/or marketing. Internship placements can be counted toward the minimum work experience requirement.
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose previous education was completed outside of Canada and where English may or may not have been the medium of instruction, must submit proof of meeting one of the accepted English language proficiency measures.
|
Test |
Score |
|
Duolingo |
Overall score: minimum 125 |
|
IELTS Academic |
7.0 |
|
TOEFL iBT or TOEFL MyBestScore |
94 |
|
Heartland International English School |
80% |
|
International Language Academy of Canada |
3.4 |
|
UWinnipeg ELP |
B+ |
The University reserves the right to request English language proficiency testing result documentation for any international applicant.
Download the UWPACE English Language Requirements (PDF) for additional English proficiency tests and programs and waiver options for the English language requirement.
Accreditation
Courses & Descriptions
Career Opportunities
Certifications
Academic Credentials
Upon successful completion of the full-time program, you will be eligible for the following academic credentials:
- Strategic Communications & Digital Marketing Post-degree Diploma
- Digital and Social Media Marketing Certificate
Tech Requirements
Students must have a laptop that meets the following requirements for their program (not included in tuition).
PC hardware
- OS: Windows 11 (64 Bit) Pro or Home version (Windows 10 would be accepted).
Note: Windows should be up to date (e.g. 23-24H2) - Processor: 12th Gen Intel core i5+
- Graphics: A strong graphics card is recommended for IT and programs that require multimedia design (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce technology); for other programs, an Intel graphics card (e.g., Intel Iris Xe Graphics) is recommended.
- Memory (RAM): 16+ GB, DDR4+.
- Hard Drive: 500+ GB, M.2, PCIe NVMe, SSD.
- Connectivity: Intel Wi-Fi 5-6 AX201, 2x2, 802.11ax, Bluetooth wireless card, HDMI, USB type A and Type C.
- Should include an HD (720P+) webcam for Zoom classes.
Apple hardware
- MacOS: Ventura or later
- Processor: Apple’s M1, M2 or M3 chip with at least 8 Core CPU.
- Graphics: 10 core GPU.
- Memory (RAM): 16+ GB.
- Hard Drive: 500+ GB, SSD.
- Should include FaceTime HD (720P+) webcam for zoom classes.
- Software to run Virtualization for Microsoft Windows:
- Parallels Desktop or Virtual box
Additional Comments
COPYRIGHT © 2018 THE UNIVERSITY OF WINNIPEG - PROFESSIONAL, APPLIED AND CONTINUING EDUCATION
Internships
This Programs include an internship opportunity. The internship will help you develop a working portfolio and gain tangible work experience.
Learn more about Internships here.
Industry Memberships
Admittance into the program includes membership in the International Association of Business Communicators and the Canadian Public Relations Society and the Canadian Agri-food Marketing Alliance.