Communication Programs
Three programs, countless possibilities
Within the communication major, students can choose the general program in communication with an emphasis in relational communication, organizational communication, or media studies; a teacher's certificate program in speech; or the honor's program in communication. Minors in communication and the teacher's certificate in speech are also available.
General Program
The General Program in Communication offers students liberal arts coursework as a supporting program for careers in communication, including but not limited to communication training and development, broadcasting, and public relations. Students must choose one of the following areas of emphasis:
- Organizational Communication
As part of the general program in communication, a focus on organizational communication will benefit students interested in the functions and theories or communication within organizations. The curriculum includes business communication, public relations and group communication coursework. This program is helpful for careers in public relations, corporate communications, consulting, special events planning, fundraising, Web editing, advertising and speech writing. - Media Studies
As part of the general program in communication, a focus on media studies will benefit students interested in history and theories of mass communication and media studies. The curriculum includes coursework in the history and theories of mass communication, communication law, telecommunication programming and management. A focus on media studies is helpful for careers in broadcasting, media relations, news writing, advertising, journalism, telecommunication, video and audio recording and editing, technical writing, publishing and law. - Relational Communication
As part of the general program in communication, the focus on relational communication includes coursework in gender, interpersonal, intercultural, group and conflict communication areas. A focus on relational communication is helpful for careers in crisis and issues management, consumer relations, human services, consulting, sales, human resources and education.
View program requirements
View Program checklist (PDF) - Program check list (Word)
NEW Journalism Program
A new journalism program that emphasizes online and community news.
more information
Honor's Program in Communication
The Honors Program in Communication is designed for the student who has completed the Freshman/Sophomore Honors Program and wishes to continue that program in the field of communication.
View program requirements
Minors
A minor in communication can benefit students from any discipline. Secondary education students should choose the teacher's certificate program in speech.
View program requirements
Teacher's Certificate Program in Speech
If you
enjoy the spoken word and working with youth, you may be interested in
a career teaching speech to students in grades 7-12. As you pursue a
teacher's certificate, you will receive broad training in communication
and theatre and learn the techniques and theories taught in education
courses. Employment after graduation is influenced by academic
achievement combined with successful completion of the Michigan Test
for Teacher Certification. This test, designed by the State of
Michigan, ensures that certified teachers have the necessary basic
skills and content knowledge to perform effectively in Michigan
schools. Students interested in teaching outside of Michigan must
research the requirements of the state in question.
View program requirements