Communication Studies
Communication is at the heart of every industry, organization, and community. Through Communication Studies, students develop the analytical, professional, and leadership skills needed to make an impact in their careers and beyond.
Communication Studies explores how people create meaning, build relationships, influence audiences, and shape organizations, communities, and culture. Through the study of interpersonal, public, organizational, and mediated communication, students develop the analytical, leadership, and professional skills needed to communicate effectively and make an impact in a rapidly changing world.
Students in our program know that words matter. Whether you are interested in understanding how people form relationships and work together (Professional & Relational Communication), how citizens and leaders advocate for ideas and create change (Rhetoric & Public Advocacy), or how media influences identity, culture, and society (Media & Society), Communication Studies offers opportunities to explore your interests while preparing for a wide range of careers and graduate study.
Undergraduate
Communication touches every industry, organization, and community. The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies equips students with the analytical, leadership, and professional communication skills needed to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
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- Program requirements and course offerings
- Become a Comm Studies Major/Minor
- Advising and Academic Planning
- Internship opportunities
- Career opportunities for Communication graduates
MA in Communication Studies
The Master of Arts in Communication Studies provides advanced training in communication theory, research, and practice. Students develop the knowledge and skills needed for leadership roles across a variety of industries or for continued doctoral study.
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- Admissions requirements and procedures
- Assistantships, scholarships, and awards
- Degree requirements and course offerings
PhD in Communication Studies
Designed for students pursuing careers in higher education, research, and leadership, the PhD in Communication offers rigorous training in theory, research, and teaching. Students collaborate with accomplished faculty while contributing new knowledge to the field through original scholarship.
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- Admissions requirements and procedures
- Assistantships and funding opportunities
- Program requirements, milestones, and forms
- Faculty mentors and research areas
Accelerated BA/MA Program
The Accelerated BA/MA program allows high-achieving students to begin graduate coursework while completing their undergraduate degree. By earning credits that count toward both programs, students can save time and gain a head start on the Master of Arts in Communication Studies.
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- Eligibility requirements and GPA standards
- Application process and deadlines
- Program structure and degree planning
- Graduate courses available to accelerated students
BA/JD Program
The accelerated BA/JD Program allows qualified Communication Studies students to begin law school while completing their bachelor's degree. By earning credits that count toward both degrees, students can complete a Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor in six years instead of seven, saving both time and tuition.
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- Why Communication Studies is an excellent pre-law major
- Eligibility requirements and admission process
- Sample course sequence and degree timeline
- Advising and contact information
Minor in Communication Studies
A Minor in Communication is a flexible way to strengthen your writing, speaking, critical thinking, and interpersonal communication skills while complementing any major. Whether your interests lie in media, relationships, leadership, advocacy, or public engagement, communication skills can help you succeed in any field.
The Communication Studies minor consists of 18 credit hours of approved coursework, including at least 9 upper-division credit hours.
Students interested in pursuing a Communication Studies minor should meet with the Department of Communication & Film to be assigned an academic advisor. Coursework for the minor is developed in consultation with the advisor and approved by the department chair to ensure it complements the student's degree plan.
For complete degree requirements and approved coursework, please refer to the current Undergraduate Catalog.