Communication Programs

The Bachelor of Science degree in Communication focuses on understanding the impact of messages and their design. More specifically, how the messages we create and the interactions we have impact the attitudes and behaviors of others. Today’s technologically oriented and constantly diversifying world is driven by the exchange of information. Increasingly, people with finely tuned communication skills are in demand to direct that information. Communication majors gain the knowledge of how messages, delivered through a variety of channels (face to face, mediated, print, etc.) can be used in everything from establishing relationships to selling products and services, to leading groups and organizations. 

 

Studying communication at Bryant gives students an opportunity to analyze and evaluate various forms of communication while developing their own specific communication skills. Theoretical, social, and ethical functions of communication are studied within a global context.  

Students in the Communication Major will:

• Describe the communication discipline and its central questions.
• Employ communication theories, perspective, principles, and concepts.
• Engage in communication inquiry.
• Create messages appropriate to the audience, purpose, and context.
• Critically analyze messages.
• Demonstrate the ability to accomplish communicative goals.
• Apply ethical communication principles and practices.
• Use communication to embrace difference.
• Influence public discourse.    

Communication Major Tracks

• While students are encouraged to design their own coursework in communication to meet their personal and career goals and aspirations, students can also choose to specialize in a specific area within the field of communication. Each track requires six courses that are completed as electives within the required courses, so no additional coursework is needed.  Current tracks are Public Relations, Broadcast Journalism, Film and Television, Strategic Healthcare and General Communication. To see course lists and requirements for each track please refer to the “Major Degree Requirements Tab” tab above and select “Communication Major””
   

  Public Relations Track

  The study of public relations emphasizes the theory and practice of successfully interacting with an organization’s many publics as it works to create a body of public opinion to support its mission, vision, or values. The knowledge afforded in a communication degree will prepare students to best demonstrate their skills in written and interpersonal communication, research, negotiation, leadership, creativity, planning, logistics, and problem solving.

   

  Broadcast Journalism, Film, and Television Track

  The Broadcast Journalism, Film, and Television Track emphasizes the creation of film and television content. In a mix of classroom, studio and on-location environments, students learn how to write, shoot, and edit media that is not only focused and engaging, but tailored for a specific audience and distribution platform. Depending on the course and assignment, students may work individually or as part of a creative team. This specialization prepares students for a variety of careers in mass communication (news, sports, advertising, etc.) that require both communication skills and creativity. Internships and volunteer opportunities will augment the course of study.

  Strategic Healthcare Communication Track

  The study of health and healthcare communication emphasizes the practice of communicating health issues to the public, such as in public health campaigns, consulting in health fields, and helping individuals make health decisions. The skills and knowledge afforded in a communication degree with a specialization in Strategic Healthcare Communication will help students: 1) analyze different audiences, 2) understand attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions about health issues, 3) strategically choose appropriate communication channels for health behavior changes, and 4) improve communication about health and healthcare.

  General Communication Track

  The General Communication track allows students who would prefer a broader focus within the Communication field, or those who wish to target specific occupations or fields of study, to adapt their own course work and “track.” Majors interested in this track will work with an advisor from within the department who will help advise and guide students towards specific coursework that would best compliment their ambitions and goals.

  Communication Minor

  Students pursuing a communication minor work with a faculty advisor to develop a personalized, tailored course of study. In this way, they build a coherent approach to the discipline that reflects their own interests in the field. Options range from interpersonal communication to journalism and mass media to media production.