Academic Programs
Whatever your current interests or career aspirations are in the field of communication studies, combine in-depth classroom learning with hands-on experience and strong faculty mentorship, and you’re sure to have a jump start within the field. The Department of Communication Studies offers one undergraduate degree (five emphasis areas available) as well as a graduate degree and various minor areas of emphasis.
Undergraduate Study in Communication
Because the field of communication focuses on interacting with a wide variety of people through diverse print, electronic and oral media, it’s important for you to be exposed to all areas of the field. All communication majors complete the same 16-hour core curriculum, plus an additional 24 hours in the area of emphasis best suited for your personal and professional goals.
BA in Communication, General Communication emphasis
The General Communication emphasis enables you to learn about interpersonal, organizational and public communication at the same time. You will also gain practical experience through workshops, forensics, campus activities and internships. With a solid background in communication, you will find many career options available.
Learn more about the BA in Communication, General Communication emphasis program of study.
BA in Communication, Journalism emphasis
As a journalism student, you will train on computerized typesetting equipment and learn the techniques of successful reporting, editing and management. The program emphasizes learning by doing. With a fully-staffed newspaper that is produced weekly, you can have hands-on experience at your fingertips. Also, you do not have to wait until your junior or senior year to work for the publication - anyone can apply!
Learn more about the BA in Communication, Journalism emphasis program of study.
BA in Communication, Public Relations emphasis
Public Relations combines journalism, general and organizational communication, broadcasting, advertising and art courses into the right blend of theory and practical experience necessary to pursue a public relations career. At FHSU, you can prepare for a wide range of job responsibilities and learn how to plan internal and external communication campaigns. Complement your classroom experience with an internship at a public relations firm or corporate public relations department for a well-rounded education.
Learn more about the BA in Communication, Public Relations emphasis program of study.
BA in Communication, Advertising emphasis
As an Advertising student, you will have the opportunity to learn about the corporate world of business as well as the personal operations behind it. Work on company campaigns, business ads and organizational projects to build your skills as an effective advertiser.
Learn more about the BA in Communication, Advertising emphasis program of study.
BA in Communication, Organizational Communication emphasis
Learn how to approach and interact with others both one-on-one and in group settings. Organizational Communication focuses on mentoring, instructing and interacting, providing you with a strong base for a communication position. Employers are consistently looking for individuals who are effective communicators. Learn how to be a productive leader, member of an organization or prepare to go on for further study.
Learn more about the BA in Communication, Organizational Communication emphasis program of study.
Minors in Communication
Not sure you want to pursue an entire degree program, but you’re interested in a particular emphasis area? You can earn a minor with just 21 hours of coursework. Learn more about the courses required for each of the minor programs:
Graduate Study in Communication
Master of Science in Communication
The graduate program is designed to give added depth to your knowledge in the field of communication. You may choose to specialize your areas of study in general communication or organizational communication. Have your own idea for an area of advanced learning? It is also possible to develop a generalized program of study that includes coursework from all areas of the department. You may also choose from either a thesis option or a research report option, depending on your goals and interests.
Learn more about the Master of Science in Communication program of study.
Visit the Graduate School to learn more about admission requirements, application deadlines, graduate teaching assistantships and more.