Communication

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Dean Beckman, M.S., Chair

The department of communication houses the majors of Electronic Publishing, Journalism and Public Relations, along with the university’s public speaking component. Students study and implement the conveying of information, ideas, and opinions to various audiences in written, oral and multimedia formats.

Besides building practical skills needed for today’s work environments, the department emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct by communication practitioners. Students also learn the contemporary and historical effects of media and other communication messages on society at large.

Because communication professionals interact with many aspects of a diverse contemporary society, students are encouraged to obtain a broad, liberal arts education. The communication department curriculum includes courses in art, business, English, sociology, computer science and other areas.

General Goals for Learning

Students:

• Are able to write and present information at a professionally acceptable level for a variety of communication-related fields;
• Have the ability to be proficient in word processing, graphic design, social media and other multimedia platforms;
• Are able to understand the effects of media and other communication messages on individuals and society, and be conversant in ethical implications of communication practices.

Programs

• Electronic Publishing Major, B.A.
• Journalism Major, B.A.
• Public Relations Major, B.A.

• Electronic Publishing Minor
• Journalism Minor
• Public Relations Minor

Return to: Undergraduate Departments and Programs