The Department of Communication offers a program leading to a bachelor of arts in communication. The major prepares students for a wide variety of careers in the communication, entertainment, tech, journalism, and non- profit industries. A minor in digital filmmaking or journalism is also available. Students explore the theories, research methods, responsibilities, institutional structures, and effects of mass communication, interpersonal communication, strategic communication, global communication, and computer-mediated communication. The integration of theory and practice is essential to the major. We help students to apply their knowledge of the communication process to create their own speeches, films, television programs, journalism, Web content, and communication and marketing campaigns. Many of our students go directly to work in these fields after graduation. The major also prepares students for graduate studies in a number of fields, including communication, film, journalism, and law.
Because the communication field requires a broad liberal arts education, students integrate courses in the Department of Communication with courses in other departments. Often, students complete a minor or take a number of courses in related disciplines. To encourage students to explore global studies, the department accepts up to two approved study abroad courses toward completion of the communication course requirements, usually as upper- division electives. All junior and senior students are encouraged to complete an internship at an off-campus media organization or other communication-related institution. Internships may count for course credit as a department elective.
Students can graduate with a general Communication degree where they take a variety of courses from across the communication field, or for those interested in a more focused specialization, they can choose from one of six official emphases: Global Media, Culture & Technology; Leadership Communication; Communication, Diversity & Culture; Film & Culture; Journalism; or Strategic Communication.
Co-Curricular Opportunities
Students interested in communication, including nonmajors, enjoy a wealth of co-curricular opportunities. All students are encouraged to participate in one of the student-run campus media, including the student newspaper, radio station, and yearbook. Practicum courses allow students to gain academic credit for working in student media.
Our Curriculum
The Communication Department revised its curriculum in 2022. Students from the Class of 2023 and 2024 must complete the old curriculum. Students from the Class of 2025 can choose either, but must make that decision by June 1, 2022. Students declaring after June 1, 2022 will complete the revised curriculum.
To declare or change a major, minor, or emphasis, fill out the SCU Registrar's Program Petition form.
