Rhetoric and Public Advocacy, BA
Want to change the world? Maybe your cause is sustainable energy. Healthcare reform. Affordable housing. Whatever it is, our program in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy offers knowledge, skills, and practical experience you need to analyze, inform, and shape discourse and policy in public, corporate, and government sectors.
Public advocacy is about the practicalities of exercising power in a diverse world. To be an effective advocate requires competence in speaking and writing, familiarity with various types of information, research skills, the ability to tell powerful stories and make strong arguments, and the capacity to engage community groups and institutions in a variety of contexts. Our program was developed by faculty with expertise in these areas. We are internationally recognized scholars and teachers with experience in political, health, labor, and civil rights campaigns.
Students in the program will complete a rigorous course of study that integrates communication and performance theory and practice with opportunities for real-world advocacy experience. Successful graduates will have completed a culminating senior research project and will amass a portfolio of work demonstrating knowledge and skill in areas of oral, written, and social media formats for graduate schools or professional careers.
Candidates for graduation from Hofstra College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with the degree of Bachelor of Arts must fulfill the BA requirements as listed under Hofstra College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. In addition, students majoring in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy may choose a political communication concentration.
Note: The Rhetoric and Public Advocacy degree is recommended for students wishing to double major in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy and another major. Students in other concentrations who wish to double major should consult with a department adviser as soon as they choose a major, in order to complete the major requirements on time.
Intakes
- Jan
- Aug
Application Processing Time in Days: 30
Minimum English Language Requirements
| English Level Description | IELTS (1.0 -9.0) | TOEFL IBT (0-120) | TOEFL CBT (0-300) | PTE (10-90) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expert | 9 | 120 | 297-300 | 86-90 | |
| Very Good | 8.5 | 115-119 | 280-293 | 83-86 | |
| Very Good | 8 | 110-114 | 270-280 | 79-83 | |
| Good | 7.5 | 102-109 | 253-267 | 73-79 | |
| Good | 7 | 94-101 | 240-253 | 65-73 | |
| Competent | 6.5 | 79-93 | 213-233 | 58-65 | |
| Competent | 6 | 60-78 | 170-210 | 50-58 | |
| Modest | 5.5 | 46-59 | 133-210 | 43-50 | |
| Modest | 5 | 35-45 | 107-133 | 36-43 | |
| Limited | 4 | 32-34 | 97-103 | 30-36 | |
| Extremely Limited | < 4 | < 31 | < 93 | < 30 |
Job Opportunity Potential
Hofstra University students enjoy excellent career prospects, largely due to its proximity to New York City, one of the world’s major business and cultural centers. This location gives students easy access to internships and entry-level positions in finance, technology, media, healthcare, and law. The university’s Career Center supports students with resume reviews, interview preparation, networking events, and career fairs. Strong relationships with local and national employers create opportunities for internships that frequently transition into permanent roles. Students in business, communications, and STEM fields benefit from programs aligned with in-demand industries. International students can take advantage of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) during their studies and Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation, with STEM students eligible for extended OPT. On-campus jobs and research assistantships provide additional practical experience. The university’s alumni network offers mentorship and guidance, helping graduates navigate job markets effectively. Hofstra alumni have secured positions with major corporations, startups, and leading organizations in New York and beyond. Overall, Hofstra equips students with both the skills and opportunities needed for successful careers.
PSW Opportunity
Post-Study Work visa or permit, allowing international students on F-1 visas to work in the US after completing their studies, typically through Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Eligibility:
To be eligible for OPT, students must have been enrolled full-time in a US educational institution for at least one academic year and be seeking work related to their major.
Duration:
Students can apply for up to 12 months of OPT, either before they finish their studies (pre-completion) or after graduation (post-completion).
STEM OPT:
Students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields can apply for an extended OPT period of up to 24 months.
Contact our PSA counselor for more information
Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria
English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
- PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120
- Completion of ELS 112
- Other recognized English proficiency tests and qualifications.
- Note: Some programs may have higher proficiency requirements.
- Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
- SAT or ACT scores are optional for admission.
- However, submitting these scores is required for consideration for merit-based scholarships.
- Course Type: Full Time
- Course Level: Bachelors/UG Degree
- Duration: 04 Year
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Total Tuition Fee:
239840 USD
Average Cost of Living: 14000 USD /year
Application Fee: 75 USD