The Communications major is designed for students seeking a strong emphasis on writing, speaking, and selected media skills. Graduates are prepared for entry positions in broadcasting, publications, public relations, and other media. The major provides excellent preparation for graduate study in communications, law, and journalism. Communications courses also support the Liberal Arts Core requirements and are open to all students as electives. A minor in Communications is also offered.
A minimum grade of C- is required in any course within the Communications major that serves as a prerequisite for a higher-numbered course.
Communications majors are required to complete an internship during the senior year in a setting related to the major field. Typical internships are provided by Washington-area news and public-service media such as television and radio stations, newspapers and other publications, and public relations offices of diverse public and private organizations. The internship is developed jointly by the faculty, the student, and the employing organization to ensure a sound learning experience for which the student earns academic credit.
Students entering as Communications majors are expected to complete introductory courses in media communications and public speaking in the freshman year, and journalism and public relations in the sophomore year. Senior students are required to complete the Internship and the Senior Seminar in Communications. Students may also choose a double-major in Communications and English. This major calls for the completion of 30 credits in Communications and 30 credits in English. The designated track in Communications emphasizes speech and journalism, while the designated track in English emphasizes literature. Students who choose this double major may also pursue secondary school certification in English. Students interested in the requirements for a double major in Communications and English should confer with advisors in each area.
It is recommended that Communications majors purchase a personal computer and software designated by the major.
Liberal Arts Core requirements: All Liberal Arts Core requirements must be fulfilled. It is recommended that students work with an advisor to ensure compliance.
Major requirements (45 credits) are fulfilled through core courses and electives. Each major is expected to complete COM 100 Media Communications, COM 101 Public Speaking, COM 206 Introduction to Public Relations, and COM 209 Introduction to Journalism before the end of the sophomore year. In addition, each major must complete COM 400 Internship, COM 425 Senior Seminar in Communications, and 24 additional credits from any other Communications courses.
Students are encouraged to select courses that will provide an emphasis in journalism, new media, public relations, or speech communications.
In addition, students majoring in Communications may specify a minor field of study.
Electives: to total 120 credits.
Journalism: Students who have or will have completed a licensure program and seek an additional licensure in journalism must take the following courses for a total of 15 credits:
COM 100 Media Communications, COM 209 Introduction to Journalism, and three courses from the following: COM 305, 315, 317, COM/GD 200, 203, 303, 308, and 309.
Speech Communication: Students who have or will have completed a licensure program and seek an additional licensure in speech communication must take a total of 15 credits from the following courses: COM 101 Public Speaking, COM 204 Oral Interpretation, COM 307 Broadcast Delivery, COM 310 Presentational Communication, and either COM 301 or 425 Senior Seminar.
Minor requirements: COM 100 Media Communications, COM 101 Public Speaking, COM 206 Introduction to Public Relations, COM 209 Introduction to Journalism, and 9 additional credits in Communications courses.