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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
Fully Online
Duration
4 years
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Bachelors
Major
Public Relations | Media Studies | Communication Studies
Area of study
Information and Communication Technologies | Social Sciences
Education type
Fully Online
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


Bachelor of Arts in Communication

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication program at the University at Albany is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of communication principles, theories, and practices. The program aims to equip students with the skills to analyze and improve communication processes, as well as to develop effective message strategies for various audiences and contexts.


Program of Study

The program requires a minimum of 120 credits, including:


  • 24 credits of required courses:
    • Human Communication: Language and Social Action
    • Introduction to Communication Theory
    • Speech Composition and Presentation OR Argumentation and Debate
  • 12 credits of statistics requirement:
    • Choose one from: Elementary Statistics, Statistics for Sociologists, Introduction to Statistics in Criminal Justice, Statistical Methods in Psychology, or Introduction to Logic
  • 12 credits of communication elective:
    • Choose one from: Interpersonal Communication, Speech Composition and Presentation, Group Communication, Argumentation and Debate, Introduction to Mass Communication, Communication and Organizational Life, Media in Everyday Life, or Research Practicum
  • 24 additional credits of communication courses at the 300-400 level OR 18 credits of communication courses at the 300-400 level and 6 credits of approved courses from outside the department

Sample Communication Courses

  • Digital and Social Media in Strategic Communication
  • Marketing Communication and Media Campaigns
  • Risk and Crisis Communication
  • Health Communication
  • Corporate Communication and Rhetorical Advocacy
  • Political Campaign Communication
  • Persuasion in Media
  • Theories of Intercultural Communication

Sample Courses from Outside the Department

  • Professional Writing
  • Women in the Media
  • Marketing Principles
  • Emerging Trends in Information and Technology
  • Administrative Leadership

Honors Program

The Communication Honors Program is designed for outstanding students who want to pursue more advanced work in the field. Students will work directly with a faculty mentor on an investigation into a clearly defined problem in rhetoric and communication.


Internships and Opportunities

The program offers internships and opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in communication-related fields, such as television, radio, public relations, and corporate communication. Students can also get involved with student-run media organizations, such as the Albany Student Press, Albany TV, and the WCDB radio station.


Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Options

The program offers combined undergraduate/graduate options, allowing students to complete both degrees in five years. Students can choose to combine their Communication undergraduate degree with the following graduate programs:


  • MA in Communication
  • MS in Information Science

Career Outcomes

Graduates with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication degree can pursue careers in various fields, including:


  • Digital marketing strategist
  • Social media manager
  • Public information specialist
  • Campaign specialist
  • Media buyer/planner
  • Advertising executive
  • Digital account manager

Alumni Connections

The program has a strong network of alumni who have gone on to successful careers in various fields, including:


  • Barneys New York
  • Macy's Inc.
  • EY
  • CBS Interactive
  • American Express
  • Motorola
  • Jaguar Land Rover
  • New York State Assembly
  • Reuters
  • Capital One
  • IBM
  • NBC Universal
  • The CW Television Network
  • Tumblr
  • Cosmopolitan Magazine
  • PepsiCo Inc.
  • NYS Thruway Authority
  • Time Inc.
  • Enterprise Holdings
  • Showtime Networks Inc.
  • Spotify

Student Learning Objectives

The program aims to equip students with the following skills and knowledge:


  • Describe communication as a form of human social conduct with a particular focus on interpersonal, public, and organizational communication.
  • Describe, apply, and evaluate various communication theories and the research that supports them.
  • Analyze communication problems effectively and propose potentially effective responses in interpersonal/intercultural, organizational, political, and/or health contexts.
  • Describe principles of effective audience-based strategies for public speaking; critique speeches on the basis of audience, argument, and presentation; develop and perform effective persuasive, informative, and ceremonial speeches.

Program Outline


Degree Overview:


Overview:

This program equips students with the knowledge and skills to effectively convey messages to diverse audiences, develop communication strategies, and analyze communication practices across various settings, including media, organizations, and society. Graduates gain valuable insights into media, organizations, individuals, and society, preparing them for careers in public relations, marketing, and media.


Objectives:

  • Understand the communication process, its components, and its application in diverse contexts.
  • Gain a deep understanding of communication theory and research across various fields.
  • Analyze and solve complex communication problems across interpersonal, organizational, political, and healthcare contexts.
  • Develop effective audience-based public speaking strategies, critique speeches, and create compelling presentations.

Description:

The BA in Communication offers a rigorous curriculum grounded in theoretical frameworks and applied experiences. Students gain exposure to critical roles of media in public life, politics, and industry, honing their analytical and communication skills. The program emphasizes communication practices, audience analysis, and communication effectiveness in diverse population segments. The curriculum includes required foundational courses, communication electives, and the option to complete a concentration.


Outline:


Program of Study:

The BA in Communication program consists of required core courses, communication electives, and the possibility of a concentration.

  • Required Core Courses: These courses build a solid foundation in communication theory, research, and practice.
  • Examples include:
  • Human Communication: Language and Social Action
  • Introduction to Communication Theory
  • Speech Composition and Presentation (or Argumentation and Debate)
  • Introduction to Mass Communication
  • Communication and Organizational Life
  • Media in Everyday Life
  • Research Practicum
  • Communication Electives: Students choose 24 additional credits in communication at the 300-400 level, allowing for specialization in areas of interest.
  • Examples include:
  • Digital and Social Media in Strategic Communication
  • Marketing Communication and Media Campaigns
  • Risk and Crisis Communication
  • Health Communication
  • Corporate Communication and Rhetorical Advocacy
  • Political Campaign Communication
  • Persuasion in Media
  • Theories of Intercultural Communication
  • Concentration: Optionally, students can complete a concentration in specific communication areas, such as:
  • Strategic Communication
  • Health Communication
  • Media Studies
  • Organizational Communication

Assessment:

Assessment methods in the BA in Communication program vary depending on the course and its learning objectives. Common assessment methods include:

  • Examinations: Midterm and final exams assess students' understanding of key concepts and theories.
  • Essays and Papers: Students may write analytical papers, research essays, or persuasive arguments to demonstrate their comprehension and application of communication principles.
  • Presentations: Students may deliver individual or group presentations to showcase their communication skills and understanding of a specific topic.
  • Class Participation: Active participation in class discussions and activities contributes to overall assessment.
  • Projects: Students may engage in individual or group projects to apply communication knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios.

Teaching:

The BA in Communication program employs diverse teaching methods to cater to various learning styles. These include:

  • Interactive Lectures: Professors facilitate discussions and encourage student participation in lectures, fostering a dynamic learning environment.
  • Small Group Work: Collaborative projects and exercises enhance teamwork skills and critical thinking abilities.
  • Case Studies: Real-world case studies allow students to apply communication theories and principles to practical situations.
  • Guest Speakers: Industry professionals and experts share their insights and experiences, offering valuable perspectives on real-world communication practices.
  • Technology Integration: The program utilizes multimedia and online learning tools to enhance the learning experience.
  • Faculty Expertise: The program boasts faculty with extensive research experience and industry expertise, ensuring students receive high-quality instruction from qualified professionals.

Careers:

The BA in Communication program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in various industries, including:

  • Public Relations
  • Marketing
  • Media
  • Healthcare
  • Government
  • Finance
  • Manufacturing
  • Senior Management
  • Energy
  • Potential job titles for BA in Communication graduates include:
  • Digital Marketing Strategist
  • Social Media Manager
  • Campaign Specialist
  • Media Buyer/Planner
  • Advertising Executive
  • Digital Account Manager

Other:


Internships:

The program actively encourages and facilitates internships with communication-related organizations in diverse fields such as television, radio, public relations, government, hospitals, and corporate communication. This provides invaluable hands-on experience and prepares students for future careers.


Student Organizations:

Students can engage in various student-run media organizations, including the Albany Student Press, Albany TV, and the WCDB radio station, gaining practical experience and honing their communication skills.


Honors Program:

High-achieving students can apply to the Communication Honors Program.

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Overview:

University at Albany, also known as the University at Albany - State University of New York, is a public research university located in Albany, New York. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and has a long history, having been established in 1844. The university is known for its diverse academic programs, strong research focus, and commitment to public engagement.


Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

    Academic Advising:

    Provides guidance and support to students in choosing courses, planning their academic careers, and navigating university resources.

    Libraries:

    Offers access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and other research materials.

    Career Services:

    Assists students in exploring career options, developing job search skills, and connecting with potential employers.

    Student Life:

    Provides opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events.

    Residential Life:

    Offers on-campus housing options for students, fostering a sense of community and providing support services.

    Dining:

    Provides a variety of dining options on campus, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.

    Athletics:

    Offers a variety of intercollegiate sports programs for students to participate in or cheer for.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at University at Albany can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events. The campus is located in a city setting, providing easy access to cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and dining options.


Key Reasons to Study There:

    Diverse Academic Programs:

    The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, allowing students to pursue their interests and career goals.

    Strong Research Focus:

    The university is a leading research institution, providing students with opportunities to engage in research projects and collaborate with faculty experts.

    Commitment to Public Engagement:

    The university is deeply committed to serving the community and addressing societal challenges through research, outreach, and public service initiatives.

    Faculty Access:

    The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to interact with and learn from their professors.

Academic Programs:

The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

    Undergraduate Programs:

    Over 50 undergraduate majors across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences, business, education, and engineering.

    Graduate Programs:

    A wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees, in fields such as business, education, public health, criminal justice, and the sciences.

    Online Learning:

    Offers a variety of online courses and programs for students who prefer flexible learning options.

Other:

The university has a strong alumni network, with over 195,000 alumni who support the university and its students. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, focusing on areas such as nanotechnology, public health, and environmental science.

Total programs
265
Average ranking globally
#425
Average ranking in the country
#129
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:


U.S. Students:

  • **High school diploma or equivalent.
  • **Minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • **Completion of four units of English and three units of mathematics.
  • **Satisfactory scores on the SAT or ACT.
  • **Optional submission of letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and a personal statement.

International Students:

  • **High school diploma or equivalent.
  • **Minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • **Completion of four units of English and three units of mathematics.
  • **Satisfactory scores on the SAT or ACT.
  • **TOEFL or IELTS scores demonstrating English proficiency.
  • **Optional submission of letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and a personal statement.

International Students:

  • Minimum TOEFL score of 80 or IELTS score of 6.5.
  • This requirement may be waived for students who have completed their secondary education in a country where English is the official language.

Additional Notes:

  • Specific requirements may vary depending on the applicant's country of origin and academic background.
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