School of Communication

Dr. Jennifer Walton, Director
Dr. Lisa Baker Webster, Communication Coordinator
Dr. K. West Bowers, Media Studies Coordinator

http://www.radford.edu/content/chbs/home/comm.html

The study of communication in the United States has emerged over the years as a highly diverse field that ultimately centers on the characteristics, uses, and effects of messages. The School of Communication offers a comprehensive education in that diverse field of study with coursework leading to B.S. or B.A. degrees in Communication or Media Studies. The Communication degree program offers concentrations in Communication Studies as well as Public Relations. The Media Studies degree program offers concentrations in Advertising, Journalism, and Media Production. Together the two degree programs offer students a broad range of possibilities for study and professional preparation.

Students who have attended the University for one semester or longer will not be accepted into the Communication or Media Studies majors without at least a 2.0 cumulative G.P.A.

All students in the School of Communication must complete six credit hours of School core requirements.

COMS 130 - Introduction to Communication (GE)  
COMS 330 - Communication Theory  

These courses are designed to introduce students to the history, contexts, influence, and theoretical grounding of the field of Communication.  A grade of C or better is required in COMS 130  and COMS 330  in order to enroll in any COMS course listing one, or both of these classes as a prerequisite.

While the School of Communication does not require an international experience, it is strongly recommended as an essential component of an outstanding undergraduate education. The School of Communication regularly offers international study and travel opportunities designed to provide important intercultural learning experiences, along with a focused study of the theory and practice of communication in intercultural and international contexts. Students should meet with their advisor and plan their experience at the earliest possible time.

Academic Programs

Communication, B.A. (A) or (L)*  

Communication, B.S. (A) or (L)*  

Media Studies, B.A. (L)  

Media Studies, B.S. (L)  

Cinema and Screen Studies Interdisciplinary Minor (A)  

Communication Minor  

Digital Communication and Research Analytics Minor  

Media Studies Minor  

Public Relations Minor  

*Students cannot pursue a major and minor or multiple concentrations or double major within the School of Communication.  Thought should be given to pursuing a double-major and/or minor outside of the School of Communication which both strengthens and augments the chosen field of Communication or Media Studies upon graduation.

Master of Science in Strategic Communication

The Master of Science degree in Strategic Communication is an applied degree designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in the public and private sector. Students will be prepared to seek careers as communication professionals in human services and in management positions, as public relations specialists, and as training/development coordinators. Graduates of our program demonstrate the broad range of career possibilities. For example, our graduates currently hold positions in fields as diverse as health care, public relations, computer software, media, higher education, non-profit services, and government. Additionally, students are prepared to pursue doctoral degrees. The degree provides a foundation of course work in both internal and external organizational communication and also allows students to focus their studies in their specific areas of interest. Please consult the Radford University Graduate Catalog for details.