The discipline of communications is an examination of the various processes of human communications and their application to human behavior. The major in Communications Studies requires all students to take a comprehensive introductory course that is designed to give students a general survey of the discipline of communications by integrating social and cultural diversity. In addition, three other courses are mandatory, along with a senior seminar and an internship. A minimum of 39 credits are required for the major, 15 of which must be at the 300 level or above. The courses provide students with an overview of the theoretical and practical applications of the various fields of Communications Studies, which encompass four types of communication: written, verbal, nonverbal, and visual.

In this age of global citizenship, the major is designed to cultivate students’ communication skills in the arenas of their personal, professional, and civic life, preparing them for careers such as Media, Law, Journalism, Business, Marketing, Advertising, Social and Human Services, Education, and Government and Politics.

Public Relations Track

Large and small businesses, government agencies, community nonprofits, academic institutions, and just about any successful organization must create and maintain a positive image with the general public. A public relations representative is at the heart of this. Whether speaking with reporters, overseeing a brand or logo design, or drawing in followers on social media, a public relations representative is a great communicator on paper and in person.

The Public Relations Track in the Communications Major requires all students to take the following four elective courses in addition to their core courses: Strategic Public Communications, Public Communications Tactics, Crisis Communications, and Public Speaking.

Communications Studies is also offered as a minor.