Academic Programs

The Communication Studies Program is a liberal arts major emphasizing theory and practice in a variety of settings for human and mediated communication. Topics include: communication campaigns, leadership, group problem solving, interpersonal skills, mass media effects, film and television production, documentary, radio production, social aspects of the media, political persuasion, organizational behavior, and the First Amendment. Some courses emphasize specific skills; others provide critical and conceptual frames for assessing a wide variety of messages.

Students enrolled in the Communication Studies Program may select from three content areas: 

• Corporate/Organizational Communication, 
• Public/Mass Communication, and 
• Radio/Television.

Students in the Department of Communication Studies will develop communication knowledge and skills needed in a rapidly changing society. They will learn how communication affects individuals, groups, and society.

The flexible program is tailored to accommodate individual interests, aptitudes, and career goals. Each student works with a faculty adviser to plan a program of study and must complete a select group of required core courses which introduce basic concepts and skills. A variety of optional courses allows for the pursuit of more specialized areas. Students are encouraged to develop their creative talents and to apply classroom learning through participation in co-curricular activities, internships, and conference presentations.

Graduates from the Department of Communication Studies are strong candidates for positions in a variety of areas including administration, fundraising, public relations, human resources, advertising, sales, market research, media production and design, public affairs, and journalism. Students considering graduate school should take courses beyond the minimum requirement of 39 hours.