Program Overview

Communication Studies Major

About our program

The Communication Studies Major at Marquette University is designed to help students develop effective communication skills, enabling them to express their ideas, listen, and engage meaningfully across various contexts. Whether pursuing media communication, corporate strategies, or public relations, students will acquire skills that transfer directly to a meaningful career. Through internships at top media outlets, nonprofit organizations, and leading corporations, students will apply their knowledge in real-world settings, facilitated by nationally recognized faculty members.

Benefits of the Program

At the College of Communication, students will be immersed in their discipline from the first day on campus, practicing in state-of-the-art studios and stages, connecting with alumni and professionals, and mastering changing technology and communication across fields. The program offers hands-on experience through internships, with 84% of students participating.

Career Opportunities

Many Communication Studies graduates go directly into the workforce in various fields, while about a quarter pursue graduate school. Recent graduates have landed positions at organizations such as:

• Chicago Botanic Garden
• 49ers Football Co.
• Kohler Co.
• Lowe Group
• Marcus Corp.
• Marquette University
• Milwaukee Brewers
• Near West Side Partners
• Northwestern Mutual
• Pepperdine University
• Tandem Diabetes Care
• Zurn Industries

Hands-on Learning

The program prioritizes hands-on learning, providing students with opportunities to:

• Learn in cutting-edge facilities, such as Johnston Hall
• Pursue a Fine Arts minor in graphic design or fine studio art
• Participate in internships with top organizations
• Engage in Diederich Experiences, unique travel opportunities to connect with alumni and professionals
• Develop leadership skills through the C-Lead program
• Study abroad at prestigious universities worldwide

Facilities and Resources

Johnston Hall, the home of the College of Communication, offers state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Black Box Studio
• Virtual production studio
• A/V control center
• Green screen room
• Motion capture and animation
• High-end workstations for design, motion graphics, and 3D modeling
• Professional cameras, audio, and lighting equipment

Fine Arts Minor

The Fine Arts minor, a collaboration between Marquette and the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD), allows students to supercharge their creativity, learning about the arts and following their artistic inspiration.

Internships

The structured internship program provides students with real-world experience, exploring career possibilities with top organizations, including:

• American Lung Association
• Banana Republic
• Gap
• Milwaukee Chamber Theatre
• Miller Brewing Co.
• Milwaukee District Attorney's Office

Diederich Experiences

These unique travel opportunities enable students to connect with alumni and professionals in their specific area of interest, building their network, introducing them to job options, and providing valuable insight and advice.

Leadership Learning

The C-Lead program helps students develop leadership skills, completing a combination of leadership development activities, mentorship, and coursework to unleash their leadership potential.

Study Abroad

Students can expand their communication education with a semester abroad, studying at prestigious universities worldwide, or participating in international opportunities, such as core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs, or research.

What to Expect from a Marquette Degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally, offering overall student support, career preparation, and an extended family network. Marquette has been recognized for its:

• #6 Best College in Job Placement / #1 in Wisconsin
• #82 in Student Outcomes (The Wall Street Journal)
• #14 Best Colleges for Internships (The Princeton Review, private universities)