(66 credits)

The Communication major focuses on the study of how human beings create meaning through the exchange of verbal, nonverbal and mediated messages. Students learn how to competently create and critically consume messages in both written and oral forms, and become adept at the skills and underlying theories of such topics as: intercultural interactions, small group communication, persuasion, public communication, race and gender, conflict management, and interviewing and listening. This major is offered via traditional on-campus instruction or fully online. The online program may work well for professionals or others who would benefit from a flexible class schedule. The curricula for online and on-campus programs are designed and taught by Communication faculty.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the BA/BS in Communication, graduates will be able to:

• Communicate effectively in diverse social settings, including interpersonal, group, online, and institutional. They will be able to express messages, adapt the content and style of messages to social contexts, and engage in dialogue about a topic with respect to all participants.
• Analyze problems in communication and develop solutions to those problems, contribute new knowledge to the field of communication, and apply disciplinary history and theory through research methods and analysis of evidence.
• Apply multiple worldviews, experiences, and knowledge of power structures into everyday issues. They will also initiate meaningful interactions with other cultures and articulate insights into one’s own cultural roles and biases, with an awareness of how their own experiences shape these roles, biases, and perspectives.
• Make concrete connections between their studies of communication and their career aspirations. They will learn how to use relevant tools and technologies, acquire practical experience through internships and practica, and prepare and present portfolios of work suitable for gaining professional employment.
• Access, analyze, evaluate, and create media messages.
• Know how diverse models of ethics relate to communication practices and be able to use ethical reasoning in their practices of communication. They will also demonstrate their capacity to participate proactively in public life and personal service, and engage in active citizenship.