The Communication Arts major explores the wide array of subjects associated with the study of communication, including: communication theory, media history, interpersonal and organizational communication, producing for media, creative media, critical media studies, and promotional and professional communication. Each student completes a core of nine courses and then selects additional areas of focused study by choosing six additional classes, at least four of which must be upper level courses. Coursework within the upper level classes will focus on in-depth research and/or creative projects.
Set in New York City with its variety of communication industries, the major offers professional intern experiences in a broad range of fields relating to media, organization communication, public relations, advertising, broadcasting and communication technology. Faculty members assist interested students in locating internships and designing activities that will allow each student to make the most of their internship site. Guest lectures, field trips, screenings and other special programs complement the coursework.
Students are encouraged to participate in internships. Up to three internship credits may count toward the Communication Arts major, and students can take up to fifteen internship credits and apply them to general elective credit. Students should note that production classes require outside lab time and should plan their schedules accordingly.
To develop expertise in an area that will broaden their options for career advancement and graduate study, students are encouraged to pursue a minor to complement the major in Communication Arts. The following minors are particularly recommended: Business Management, Creative Writing, Fashion Studies, Gender and Sexuality Studies; Graphic Design; International Studies; and Digital Journalism.
Program Faculty:
Jenny Dixon
Eileen Doherty
Noelle Griffis
Erin Greenwell
Dan Hunt
Corey Jay Liberman
Tahneer Oksman
Cyrille Phipps
Tatiana Serafin
Peter Schaefer
Sarah Nelson Wright
Professor Emeriti:
David Linton
Alister Sanderson
Communication Arts Courses (COMM)
Communication and Media Arts Programs:
Major: Communication Arts, B.A. (0601), 45 Credits
Minor: Communication and Media Arts, 15 Credits