Communication, journalism, and related programs

Communication and Media Studies: Communication and Media Studies, Other; Communication, General; Mass Communication/Media Studies; Speech Communication and Rhetoric

Journalism: Broadcast Journalism; Journalism; Journalism, Other; Photojournalism

Radio, Television, and Digital Communication: Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia; Radio and Television; Radio, Television, and Digital Communication, Other

Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication: Advertising; Health Communication; International and Intercultural Communication; Organizational Communication, General; Political Communication; Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication; Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication, Other; Public Relations/Image Management; Sports Communication; Technical and Scientific Communication

Publishing: Publishing

Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other: Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other

Communications, general

Description

“Communications” is a broad term for a major that studies how information and ideas are exchanged in modern society. Programs in this area also may be titled “Communication Arts,” “Communications and Media,” or “Communications Studies.” This major provides a comprehensive background in writing and speaking techniques, familiarity with the workings of the mass media, and the skills for utilizing the media to deliver the intended message. There are many directions in which a communications major can head after college. Perhaps this is why it is one of the more popular college majors.

Plan of study

The plan of study includes writing skills development, speech writing and delivery, interpersonal skills development, principles of advertising, public relations, broadcasting techniques, history of the media, and related offerings. Some colleges may combine a communications major with one in speech communications, journalism communications, mass media, or broadcasting. Since program quality varies widely, careful comparison of program majors is strongly urged.

Expect to take

Introduction to communications, mass communications, public speaking, radio and television production, communications theory, small group communication, introduction to psychology, social psychology, ethical and legal foundations of communication practice.

Suggested high school subjects

Advanced English including speech and journalism, advanced social studies, art electives, foreign language, computer studies.

General interest areas

English, speaking, writing, public relations, social science.

Some career possibilities

College professor
Management trainee
Communications center operator
Marketing/advertising manager
Disk jockey
Media specialist
Editor
News copy writer
Journalist/broadcast journalist
Radio/tv announcer/newscaster
Lawyer
Secondary school teacher

Some related majors

Advertising
Marketing
American studies
Media study
Journalism
Radio/television
Liberal arts
Sociology
Library science

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