Communication, Health Communication Concentration, B.S.

Program Overview

The Communication major with a concentration in Health Communication prepares students to understand and advocate for health-related communication. Through coursework in health communication theory, research, and technology, students develop critical communication skills for careers in health administration, public health, patient advocacy, and more. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through internships and research opportunities, ensuring graduates are ready for successful careers in the dynamic health sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• The major in Communication with a concentration in Health Communication equips students to understand communication as it applies to various health contexts and to be advocates for themselves and others in health-related experiences.
• Students will emerge ready for successful careers in a variety of fields, such as health administration, public health, crisis and risk management, health education, patient advocacy, care coordination, and other opportunities both within and outside of the health sector.
• Students will also be prepared for the option of graduate studies.
• Acknowledging the dynamic landscape of health, students will learn critical communication skills by engaging with communication research about health theories, organizations, experiences, relationships, and technology.

Outline:

• The major in Communication with a concentration in Health Communication requires the completion of 120 credit hours, including 41 hours of General Education, 45 hours of Major Requirements, and 34 hours of Optional Minor/Electives.
• The major coursework covers a range of topics in health communication, including:
• - Introduction to Health Communication
• - Relationships in Health Communication
• - Patient Provider Communication
• - Health Communication Theory
• - Health Risk Communication
• - Qualitative Communication Research and Inquiry
• - Topics in Health Communication
• - Lying and Deception
• - Independent Study
• - The Dark Side of Health Communication
• - Health Communication Technology and Social Media
• - Sexual Communication
• - Stigma, Disability, and Communication
• - Social Support Communication
• - Narrative Health and Medicine
• - Internship in Communication Studies

Assessment:

• The program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including exams, quizzes, papers, presentations, and projects.
• Students must maintain a minimum grade of C- in each major core course.

Teaching:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research and scholarship in the field of communication.
• The faculty use a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, simulations, and case studies.
• The program also offers opportunities for students to participate in research projects and internships.

Careers:

• Graduates of the program are qualified for a wide range of careers in the health communication field, including:
• - Health communication specialist
• - Public health educator
• - Patient advocate
• - Health care administrator
• - Health policy analyst
• - Marketing communications specialist
• - Social media manager
• - Journalist
• - Teacher