Professional Communication Major: Visual Communication and Social Media Option (B.S.)

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Professional Communication equips students with analytical thinking, persuasive writing, and effective communication skills. The program emphasizes experiential learning, real-world projects, and a capstone course, preparing graduates for careers in public relations, corporate communications, and other communication-related fields. Graduates are highly sought after by organizations in both the public and private sectors.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Description:

The Bachelor of Science in Professional Communication hones the skills of analytical thinking, compelling writing, effective persuasion, and clear expression to prepare graduates to work in an information-based economy and to be engaged citizens of a media-driven culture. The major is well-suited to students interested in careers or further studies in such areas as public relations, public service, nonprofit advocacy, and corporate communications. Courses provide students the opportunity to study fundamental theory and multiple sectors of practice in the discipline of communication and to prepare to contribute to public and private enterprises that consistently need to convey messages effectively, manage information appropriately, and respond ethically and effectively to opportunities and to crises.

Objectives:

• Survey foundational theories of communication relating to individuals, groups, and mass media.
• Create and deploy distinct messages suited to specific audiences and situations, in written, verbal, and digital formats.
• Compose, design, and deliver targeted and engaging presentations.
• Identify and respond to complex communication practices and challenges within organizations, and effect strategic improvements thereto.
• Analyze and critique rhetorical strategies and communication methods specific to cultural and industry norms.
• Employ an understanding of the impact of cultural differences on communication in a global context.
• Integrate individual reflection on questions of ethics and citizenship, particularly in digital contexts, to include the personal and professional ramifications of netiquette, digital footprint, and digital citizenship.
• Demonstrate aptitude with research methods, both quantitative and qualitative, as these inform and are applied in the field of professional communication.
• Develop specialized knowledge and skill in a specific aspect or professional practice within professional communication.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• General Education Program Requirements (40 credits): Includes courses in English, Communication, Mathematics, Knowledge of Human Behavior & Social Systems, Knowledge of the Physical & Natural World, Knowledge of Human Thought & Expression, CRIT 602 Advanced Critical Analysis and Strategic Thinking, and IDIS 601 Interdisciplinary Seminar.
• Writing Program Requirements (12 credits): Includes four writing intensive courses, including ENG 420 The Writing Process and three additional courses at the 600-level or above.
• Major Requirements (52 credits):
• Foundational Courses (14 credits):
COM 440 Persuasive Communication, COM 460 Interpersonal Communication and Group Dynamics, COM 465 Communication Theory, and COM 480 Visual Communication.
• Intermediate Courses (8 credits): COM 590 Professional Communication and COM 665 Media and Strategic Communication.
• Advanced Courses (16 credits): COM 707 Communication for Training and Performance Improvement.
Option in Visual Communication and Social Media:
• Option Requirements (16 credits):
COM 504 Web Development I, COM 680 Trends in Digital and Social Media, COM 670 Advanced Visual Communication, and two of the following: ART 512 Fundamentals of Design, CMPL 540 Best Practices in Website Design, CMPL 622 Human Computer Interaction, COM 685 Web Development II, MKT 510 Principles of Marketing, MKT 600 Social Media Marketing, or MKT 720 Digital Advertising.
• Integrative Capstone (4 credits): COM 797 Integrative Capstone: Project in Professional Communication.
• Open Electives (12 credits): Courses within the College not already included in the student's general education, major, option, or minor.

Course Schedule:

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Exams
• Quizzes
• Presentations
• Projects
• Papers
• Participation

Assessment Criteria:

• Course assignments and projects are evaluated based on the student's ability to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the course material, critical thinking skills, written and oral communication skills, and creativity.
• Students must maintain a minimum grade of C- in all major coursework.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Workshops
• Simulations
• Case studies
• Group projects

Faculty:

Faculty members in the Professional Communication program have expertise in various areas of communication, including public relations, health communication, organizational communication, and interpersonal communication.

Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes experiential learning through simulations, case studies, and group projects.
• Students have opportunities to work on real-world communication projects with community partners.
• The program offers a capstone course that allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to a specific communication project.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Public relations specialist
• Corporate communicator
• Marketing communications manager
• Social media manager
• Health communicator
• Nonprofit communication director
• Event planner
• Grant writer
• Public affairs officer
• Journalist
• Teacher
• Researcher

Opportunities:

• The program prepares students for a variety of careers in communication, both in the public and private sectors.
• Graduates are employed by a wide range of organizations, including corporations, nonprofits, government agencies, and educational institutions.

Outcomes:

• The program has a high job placement rate, with graduates successfully securing positions in their field.
• Graduates are well-prepared to make significant contributions to their organizations and communities through effective communication.