Communication, B.A.
Chair: Heidi Rose, Ph.D.
Office Location: Garey Hall 028
Telephone: (610) 510-4750
Website
About
Communication shapes who we are, both individually and socially. We in the Communication Department believe our future depends upon our communication with one another. The study of Communication in the liberal arts tradition focuses on the understanding and use of symbols that create meaning in multiple communicative contexts—global and local, personal and professional, in-person and mediated. The discipline of Communication is grounded in ancient rhetorical traditions and is influenced by contemporary intellectual, artistic and technological developments. Our program integrates theory and practice, so that skills-based courses build upon communication principles, concepts, insights, and research techniques. Our mission, then, is to produce well-rounded communicators who will speak eloquently and listen actively; think critically, creatively, and ethically; and write clearly and strategically. Our graduates are placed in top graduate programs and law schools, as well as prepared to build careers in industries from public relations and marketing to media production and print/broadcast/digital journalism. Whether in corporate or nonprofit careers, serving their communities, or engaged in further academic study, our graduates illustrate that students of Communication are uniquely equipped to make a difference locally and globally, in their lives and in the lives of others.
MAJOR (36 credits)
To Declare the Major: Enrollment in COM 1000 and COM 1100.
Specializations:
Students may choose either to design their own major specialization or will choose one (or more) of the following specializations: Public Relations & Advertising, Journalism, Organizational Communication, Media Studies, Media Production, Rhetorical Studies, Performance Studies, and Interpersonal & Intercultural Communication. With or without a specialization, students must cover three different areas in their six 3000-level courses. A complete listing of specialization requirements and courses is available on the departmental Web page or in the departmental office. Some specializations require Communication majors to complete internships, which, if completed for credit, will be used to satisfy free electives for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Program Notes:
- Only two courses may be transferred to count towards the COM major.
- Students who plan to study abroad should take COM 1000, 1100, and at least one 2000-level course before going abroad.