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2025-2026 Undergraduate Catalog
Communication, B.A.
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 Return to: Undergraduate Programs
The 120-credit hour Communication degree provides a broad base of theoretical and practical coursework in the communications industry. In addition to completing the foundation courses and learning the use of technology across the field, students choose a concentration area to develop skills suited to their particular career interests. The program has audio and video production studios and a post-production suite and provides hands-on learning with real world experiences.
Communication concentrations will equip students with the tools necessary to design, produce, analyze, and evaluate media products, strategies, procedures, and content delivery for individuals, organizations, and corporations in the workforce. Whether creating communication programs for needed populations, contextualizing issues for legislators, or educating communities on their rights, industries are in need of communication professionals able to navigate media messages that will motivate and inform the general public.
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Core Curriculum: 38 - 51 credit hours
Please review the Core Curriculum page for course options. Required Core Courses
Students in the Communication major must take the following course as part of the liberal arts core requirements regardless of whether the core is otherwise met: Liberal Arts, Arts Liberal Arts, Social Science Art & Communication Foundations (30 - 33 credit hours)
Students must have a minimum grade of “C” for all Communication courses. All majors are required to take the following foundation courses: Communications Core Requirements (6 credit hours)
Communication Concentrations
Students in the Communication major must choose one of the following concentrations to complete their degree program. Advertising & Public Relations Concentration (27 credit hours)
Students interested in a career in public relations/advertising in a corporate, non-profit, healthcare, or entrepreneurial setting, or in a graduate program in communication studies or business, are required to complete the following courses: Film & Digital Media Concentration (27 credit hours)
Students interested in a career in film or video production, editing and sound design, digital storytelling, or graduate studies in mass communication or film are required to complete the following courses in addition to the above Foundation courses: Sports Communication Concentration (27 credit hours)
Students interested in a career in sports marketing, promotion, advertising, event planning, or sports broadcasting are required to complete the following courses in addition to the above Foundation courses: Electives (minimum of 10 credit hours)
Students must take elective hours in order to reach the 120 hours required for graduation. Technology Requirement
Computer competency will be demonstrated by successful completion of AR 271 /CO 271 within the major. Mission and Values
VisCom Mission Inspire and empower the next generation of visual communicators to create meaningful change through innovative design and socially responsible practices. Our graduates will be highly skilled professional who excel in their careers and contribute positively to their communities and the world. - Cultivate socially responsible professionals equipped with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to excel in today’s dynamic world.
- Foster a diverse and inclusive learning community by actively recruiting and supporting students from all backgrounds, celebrating their unique perspectives, and sharing their inspiring journeys.
- Strengthen a culture of social justice and practical learning by building partnerships, internships, and mentorship opportunities that bridge academic theory with real-world challenges and promote critical awareness of inequity.
- Continuously enhance our educational approach by innovating our curriculum and pedagogy to ensure students develop the critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills needed for academic success and lifelong learning.
- Develop a strong and supportive alumni community that fosters lifelong connections and actively promotes diversity and inclusion to ensure all students have the resources and opportunities to achieve their academic and career goals.
- Nourish a dynamic and inclusive learning environment by recruiting exceptional faculty who inspire and empower students to become agents of positive social change.
VisCom Values Student Focused Skill Development: - Equip students with current and emerging digital tools by fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment that supports academic and career aspirations.
- Promote critical thinking, empathy, and social responsibility through an interdisciplinary curriculum that explores issues of professionalism, inclusion, diversity, and social justice.
- Nurture holistic student development by integrating academic coursework with practical experiences and industry insights.
- Cultivate students’ civic engagement and community impact through authentic partnerships, internships, and mentorship opportunities.
- Encourage a culture of curiosity and exploration by embracing innovation, experimentation, and adaptability.
Assessment
The outcomes for the Communication major are assessed through a combination of written and performance examinations, written and performance assignments, and a portfolio (Advertising/Public Relations, Sports Communication, Film & Digital Media) of completed projects. The portfolio reflects assignments completed throughout the course of the program. The portfolio is constructed in CO 499 Senior Seminar (3) and reviewed by communication faculty members and professionals in the communication community. The portfolio is formally presented at the end of the spring semester prior to graduation. Outcomes
In addition to the general degree requirements stated earlier in this university catalog, Communication majors will be expected to meet the following outcomes: Outcome 1. Effectively communicate from diverse perspectives while engaging in ethical deliberation, utilizing a range of skills including oral, written, visual, and technological mediums. (CO 125 , CO 215 , CO 217 , AR 221 , AR 322 , CO 223 , CO 235 , CO 327 , CO 338 ) Outcome 2. Display an understanding of the theory and history of media and communications while cultivating an understanding of the systemic inequities within media industries. (CO 150 , CO 181 , CO 182 , CO 391 , CO 452 ) Outcome 3. Conceive and execute creative communication projects that effectively persuade, inform, educate, or entertain audiences within a dynamic and complex social context. (AR 271 , AR 344 , CO 495 , CO 231 , CO 486 , CO 425 , CO 427 , CO 499 ) Outcome 4. Demonstrate the ability to examine ethical decision-making from diverse perspectives with a commitment to community service and civic dialogue. (CO 216 , CO 225 , CO 360 , CO 415 ) Outcome 5. Students will be able to critically analyze and ethically utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools within the context of visual communication, demonstrating an understanding of their potential impact on society, equity, and diverse perspectives. (CO 150 , CO 235 , AR 322 , CO 499 ) |
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