Majors / Communication

Communication (B.A., B.S.)

Indiana State University

Description:

The University offers a bachelor of arts (B.A.) and a bachelor of science (B.S.) in communication.

Communication majors study theory and practice in a focused set of courses designed to maximize professional development. Graduates are prepared for careers in multimedia fields, journalism, public relations, and communication. The program offers excellent preparation for graduate studies.

Coursework includes a required core of communication courses, a set of elective courses, and courses in a concentration selected from the following areas:

  • Electronic Media
  • Human Communication
  • Journalism
  • Public Relations

Communication students are required to complete a minor (offered by another department) to gain a broader liberal arts background.

An important feature of the program is its emphasis on blending classroom learning with practical experience and cocurricular activities that result in exciting and challenging study. Most courses in the major feature structured team-based work that prepares students for a contemporary workplace.

  • Students gain practical skills and experience by conducting independent research or producing creative projects, completing internships, and pursuing community engagement through client-based and volunteer experiences with various on-campus and community-based organizations, including television and radio stations, newspapers, not-for-profit agencies and associations. These experiences help students build a portfolio and receive professional assessment of work that may lead to employment after graduation.
  • Students benefit from mid-size to smaller classes taught by award-winning faculty who have a diversity of specialties. Department faculty hold doctoral degrees and engage in research and publish within their specializations.
  • Facilities available for student research and activities include multimedia production studios, equipment support for field production, public relations production laboratory, and various instructional laboratory spaces.

Communication majors are actively involved in several student organizations, including the Public Relations Student Society of America, Sycamore Video, and WISU-FM, a 13,500-watt stereo radio station.

Majors are encouraged to pursue other opportunities including study abroad (ranging from summer programs to a single semester or a full academic year in over 56 countries), the University Honors Program, and the certificate program in nonprofit leadership.


Special Note: In addition to the communication major (listed above), the department also offers a minor in communication that includes 21 credits. The communication minor is open to all non-communication majors—and is an excellent way to increase employability and supplement skills and abilities.

Required Courses:

[ list all ]

Careers:

Our graduates are well prepared for careers in their chosen area study. In addition, the Communication Program is excellent preparation for graduate study. Listed below are a few of the opportunities.


Electronic Media
: Account executive
: Director
: Disc jockey
: Media buyer
: News anchor
: Producer
: Program director
: Public relations positions
: Reporter
: Sales manager
: Station manager
: Talk show host
: Video and film editor
: Web designer
: Writer
 Journalism
: Editor
: Copy editor
: Media interviewer
: Newscaster
: Publisher
: Reporter
: Researcher
: Scriptwriter
: Technical writer

 
 
 
 
  		Public Relations
: Advertising manager
: Audience analyst
: Corporate public affairs specialist
: Creative director
: Development officer
: Fundraiser
: Lobbyist
: Marketing specialist
: Media analyst
: Media planner
: News writer
: Press agent
: Publicity manager
: Public opinion researcher

Accreditation:

The University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

In addition, the Public Relations Program is accredited by the Public Relations Society of America.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Students have many sources of financial support for their studies, including financial aid, work-study programs, veterans' benefits, and special scholarships for entering freshmen and transfer students.

In addition, the Department of Communication offers a variety of scholarships and awards. For more information on these awards, contact the department.

Further Information

Department of Communication
Indiana State University
812-237-3244
www.indstate.edu/communication


Last updated: September 25, 2012



The Catalog of Indiana State University is the document of authority for all students. The requirements given in the catalog supersede information issued by any academic department, program, college, or school. The University reserves the right to change the requirements at any time.

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For information on academic programs (including advisement), students should contact their academic advisor or visit the academic department or college in which the major is housed:

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For assistance with admission, campus tours, credit transfer, financial aid, housing options, registration, scholarships, and veterans benefits, students should contact:

Office of Admissions
Indiana State University
318 North 6th St. (Welcome Center)
Terre Haute, Indiana 47809

1-800-GO-TO-ISU
www.indstate.edu/admissions
admissions@indstate.edu