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.
The Communication Program enables students to study both the practical and theoretical, while tailoring a program that maximizes personal growth and professional development. Graduates are prepared for professional careers in journalism, public relations, human communication—and radio, television, and film. The program is also excellent preparation for graduate studies.
Course work includes a required core of communication courses—plus a concentration selected from the following areas:
- Electronic Media
- Human Communication
- Journalism
- Public Relations
In addition, students complete electives chosen in consultation with an advisor. Students also 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 extracurricular activities that result in exciting and challenging study.
- Students gain practical skills and experience by participating in internships (required for most concentrations)
and service-learning opportunities at various on-campus and community-based organizations, including
radio stations, newspapers, and news services. These experiences enable students to generate a portfolio and
receive professional assessment that may lead to employment after graduation.
- Students benefit from small classes taught by award-winning faculty who have a diversity of specialties.
Most hold doctoral degrees and engage in research and publish within their specializations.
- Facilities available for student research and activities include computer laboratories, a performance laboratory, a film laboratory, two television studios, audio facilities, and a radio station.
- Student organizations and activities include the Public Relations Student Society of America, Sycamore Video, and WISU-FM, a 13,500-watt stereo radio station. Students can also work for the Indiana Statesman, the University's newspaper.
Other opportunities include the University's Honors Program and study abroad opportunities—which range from summer programs to a single semester or a full academic year in over 25 countries.
Special Note: In addition to the communication major (listed above), the department also offers a minor in communication that includes 18-21 credits, depending on the concentration selected. 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:
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.
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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.
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
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.
Last updated 8 June 2009