BA in Communication
The BA in Communication offers students theoretical and applied learning opportunities to understand, analyze, and practice communication across varied contexts. Students learn to be critical thinkers, creative and confident communicators, collaborative decision makers, and engaged citizens. Students take classes from one or more of the focus areas below as well as general communication classes.
Areas of Study
Social Systems
Social systems involve the interrelationships between individuals, groups, and organizations to form a coherent whole. Communication creates and connects our relational, family, work, and community lives, contributing to society as a whole. Our classes explore how communication shapes and is shaped by the various social systems at play in our lives. Students will learn about how to navigate interpersonal and professional relationships, romantic partnerships, and family dynamics (both face-to-face and virtually) in ways that will contribute to personal and relational wellness. They will also obtain skills and experiences to help them become engaged and dynamic people, teammates, and leaders, improving the ways they live and work with others.
Culture, Difference & Advocacy
Culture, Difference, and Advocacy focuses on preparing students to be active and culturally competent citizens. Courses in this area help students understand rhetorical concepts and practices, effectively communicate across contexts and cultures, and advocate for themselves and others.
Media and Society
The Media and Society area helps students understand and engage in today’s media environment by combining a broad liberal arts context with a critical focus on the information needs of democratic society. By studying theoretical and practical approaches to communicating in the digital age, students learn to understand the social and political contexts of mediated communication and to produce content for existing institutions as well as new and emerging platforms and outlets.
Minors and Certificates
Students earning a BA in Communication are encouraged to pursue minors or certificates in complementary areas of study as well as engage in internships or practicum opportunities to enhance their educational experiences. Students outside the major can pursue a minor in communication to develop important communication competencies as a meaningful addition to an overall university education.