Program overview

Our major gives you skills to navigate the complexity of communication in relationships and organizations so you can make an impact wherever you go. Because communication is central to every organization and relationship, knowledge and skill in communication—paired with profession-specific expertise—gives you the tools to succeed. 

Communication Studies graduates are working in every industry, using expertise in communication in conjunction with interests and background in specific areas. They’re the kind of people who can own a business, lead a nonprofit, run political campaigns, and manage others well due to the leadership skills we teach.

At the School of Communication Studies, our small student-to-instructor ratio in major-specific courses means students get the attention necessary to achieve their goals. They learn effective public and private speaking, foundational writing skills, and how to resolve conflicts of all sorts—all of which can be used in and out of the workplace.

Why major in Communication Studies?

Because communication is the essential means of collaborating with others, excellence in communication enables you to be more effective at whatever you do. That means you’ll make a greater impact—on the job, in your community, or in your personal life.  If you want to make a difference in the world, Communication Studies can help you get there.

Professional success

Proficiency in communication will help you be more successful in any job once hired. As you move up in the organizational hierarchy, jobs become less about the tasks required in entry-level roles and more about managing people, providing leadership, and communicating to stakeholders: communication-intensive activities. 

The stronger your communication abilities, the more likely you are to move up in your profession and succeed at higher levels. Our courses emphasize communication theories that touch on psychology, sociology, and media so our graduates can confidently enter the workforce ready to tackle both interpersonal and organizational communication challenges.

Outside the classroom

We know not all learning is done in the classroom, so we facilitate trips both foreign and domestic to observe industry, culture, and communication in a variety of settings, allowing students to build knowledge and community within their major. Our student organizations also pave a way for those in the Communication Studies major to build a network that will last long beyond their undergraduate years.

We also provide the unique opportunity for students to learn from alumni who are industry experts via industry meet-and-greets, trips, and guest speakers. 

Our faculty

Students learn from some of the best in the field of interpersonal and organizational communication studies, as our award-winning and internationally renowned faculty produce valuable research that continues to impact their area of study. Our dedicated instructors are known for investing in their students so they know they’re a valued part of the School of Communication Studies.

Helping CCI students start their career

Whether it is landing an internship, resume and portfolio building, or honing interview skills, our Office for Professional Development helps our students achieve their career goals.

Office of Professional Development

Complementary minors

Minors that pair well with a major in Communication Studies include:

• Advertising and Public Relations
• Business Administration
• Psychology