BA in Communication

The communication program is an interdisciplinary major based in business and the liberal arts. Designed to empower students through the growth of critical thinking and effective communication skills, the major emphasizes the development of professional level communication skills through engaged learning and high impact practices including study abroad, internships, service learning, undergraduate research, and creative projects. Students focus on understanding the communication challenges in the 21st century while learning how to effectively communicate across a variety of digital technologies and communication mediums.The innovative and varied curriculum enhances and develops multi-dimensional communication skills including speaking, writing, and producing multimedia content. Theory and practice come to life in an individualized and challenging learning environment.The coursework includes the integration of classroom instruction with pre-professional work experience through a variety of credit bearing student media practicum courses, classroom simulations, and internships. Students also can participate in extra-curricular activities including communication professional organizations and Lambda Pi Eta, the national communications honor society.Graduates may enter many media-related fields including social media management, journalism, public relations, advertising, radio, television, content creation, management, marketing, and education. The communication program also provides a fine strong foundation for graduate study communication, leadership, business administration, library science, and law.The courses in this major are designed to provide students with an understanding of professional practices and techniques applied in the major areas of media and communication. In addition to the Communication core, students will select upper-level electives to focus in one of three specializations: Multimedia Content Development, Strategic Communication and Marketing, or Strategic Social Media.These available specializations are relevant to industry needs and will be attractive to prospective students. The job outlook for media and communication occupations is projected to grow 6 percent from 2021 to 2031. The job outlook for Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing managers is expected to grow 10 percent in the next decade. The job outlook for Broadcast, Sound, and Video Technicians also is 10 percent growth, while the outlook for Public Relations specialists is eight percent growth. With this major, graduate will be well positioned to qualified for these jobs and more.