Communication Studies
Thrive in a rapidly changing media world
As a major in the Communication Studies program at Alfred University, you'll develop an awareness of the communication principles applicable to so many careers in the broad and dynamic media arena. The program places emphasis on individual attention, curricular flexibility, and intellectual challenges, as well as providing a solid grounding in the economic structures that shape contemporary media industries.
Major
Double Major
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Minor
Major:
- COMM 101 Introduction to Communication Studies
- COMM 110 Mass Media and American Life
- COMM 205 Introductory Newswriting and Reporting
- COMM 301 Broadcasters, Advertisers, and Audiences
- COMM 309 Persuasion: Reception and Responsibility
- COMM 410 Communication Ethics
Additional Courses:
Take 20 credit hours of elective courses in Communication, Social Sciences (such as Psychology or Political Science), Business (such as Management or Marketing), and Humanities (such as English), chosen in consultation with an advisor. At least 12 of these elective hours must be at the 300-400 level.
Minor:
- COMM 101 Introduction to Communication Studies
- COMM 110 Mass Media and American Life
- COMM 205 Introductory Newswriting and Reporting
- COMM 301 Broadcasters, Advertisers, and Audiences
- COMM 309 Persuasion: Reception and Responsibility
- COMM 410 Communication Ethics
In addition to fulfilling the requirements of the major in Communication Studies, as well as the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences general education requirements, you'll be required to complete the College's First Year Experience Program or Transfer Student Program.
As a supplement to your classroom work, students are encouraged to work with the University’s FM stereo radio station, WALF, the student newspaper, Fiat Lux, or the campus television station, AUTV, as well as complete an internship.
Communication Studies as a double major is available to any AU student. The following courses, comprising a total of 44 credits, must be passed with a grade of "C" or better.
Learn more about Double Majors
Core Requirements (24 hours)
- COMM 101 Introduction Communication Studies
- COMM 110 Mass Media and American Life
- COMM 205 Introductory Newswriting & Reporting
- COMM 301 Broadcasters, Advertisers, and Audiences
- COMM 309 Persuasion: Reception and Responsibility
- COMM 410 Communication Ethics
Electives: (20 hours selected in consultation with advisor; at least 12 hours must be at the 300 or 400 level)
The communications industry includes jobs in journalism, public relations, advertising, mass media, publishing, and marketing. The Communication Studies major provides broad exposure to any of these industries, and is also a great basis for many related careers in business or industry and related disciplines such as law.
Examples of recent graduates include:
- Admissions Counselor- Alfred University
- Director of Social Media Communications – Wholly Organized! LLC.
- Directory Specialist – Reed Exhibitions
- Product Distribution Lead- Unlimited Management Group
- Financial Advisor – Morgan Stanley
- Field Organizer – Democrat Campaign Management
- Director of Sales/Marketing – KC Whispers Associates
- Employment Specialist/Job Developer – Rochester School of the Deaf
- Financial Aid Counselor – Keuka College
- Reporter – The Evening Tribune
- Marketing Consultant – Carnegie Communications
Student Stories
Similar Programs
Interested in Alfred University's Communication Studies program? Consider adding a double major or minor to your plan of study in the following areas for additional career opportunities following graduation: