Communication Studies, BA

Department of Communication Studies, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

60 credits

Introduction

We focus on the centrality of human communication for understanding our relationships, our communities, and ourselves. Our teaching, scholarship, and service nurture inclusive discourse, critical thinking, and cooperative solutions in a diverse global community. We offer opportunities to develop communication skills and explore communication theories within a rigorous liberal arts program.

Why Consider a Communication Studies Major?

Communication competencies and critical cultural consciousness are essential for active participation in societies, as is the ability to think critically about the nature and purpose of communication, in all its forms, in our rapidly changing and increasingly interdependent world. In addition, employers in the private, public, and non-profit sectors highly value culturally sensitive and competent communication skills that reflect critical thinking. Communication Studies graduates therefore qualify for a wide variety of careers.

In this context, the Department of Communication Studies offers students the opportunity to develop competencies in speech, analytical writing, and collaborative teamwork. In addition, the department offers opportunities for students to develop their capacity to engage in critical thinking, to apply communication concepts, to understand methods for the generation of knowledge, and to reflect on the ethical dimensions of their actions.

Contact Information

Department Chair Ee Lin Lee, Ph.D. Communications Facility 291 360-650-4032 EeLin.Lee@wwu.edu

Communication Studies Academic Advisement Communications Facility 295 360-650-3870 CommunicationStudiesAdvising@wwu.edu

Sample Careers

Consumer Affairs Specialist | Personnel Specialist | Public Relations Specialist | Promotions Manager | Recruiter | Mediator | Training and Development Specialist | Bank Officer | Real Estate Agent

Major/Career Resources

www.wwu.edu/careers/students_choosingamajor.shtml

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Before declaring a communication studies major, students must complete:

• Any one of the following courses with a B- or better: COMM 101, COMM 224, COMM 225, COMM 230, COMM 235, COMM 240, COMM 260.
• COMM 220 with a B- or better.
• At least 60 WWU credits or approved transfer credits. Note that no more than 50 percent of total COMM credits can be transferred from another institution.

Please contact CommunicationStudiesAdvising@wwu.edu to ensure that you have met the criteria above for declaring a major in communication studies. Visit the department website at chss.wwu.edu/communication-studies/major-declaration for major declaration instructions.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.