Communication Studies, BS (43-602) (120 hours)

Major, Bachelor of Science Degree

Mission Statement

Communication Studies is committed to preparing graduates to communicate effectively and excel at examining the role of messages in various types of human relationships, organizations, cultures and social institutions. We promote life-long learning by preparing graduates who have developed their ability to think critically, speak and write exceptionally and analyze and interpret messages creatively.

Program Outcomes

The graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Studies will use the knowledge and skills obtained in the program to demonstrate all of the following:

• Demonstrate a general knowledge and application of communication theory;
• Demonstrate ability to critique and apply various research methods and/or approaches;
• Demonstrate preparedness for professional life and/or further academic study; and
• Demonstrate a basic knowledge through one of the three areas: ‘communication consultancy’ or ‘social influence’ or ‘relational’ context.

Admission

Students entering the University of Central Missouri to pursue a degree in Communication Studies B.S. or Digital Media Production B.S. should indicate their intentions to become a major of one of these programs at the time of their first enrollment. Each of the programs has degree-specific admission requirements. See information about each of the degrees for those requirements.

Course Work

1. A student may not graduate with a degree in a communication major in which the grade of record for any required communication course is an F. The student must receive a grade of C or better in the following courses if required in their major or minor program of study: COMM 1000  , COMM 2100  , and COMM 3100  . A maximum of six semester hours may be counted toward a degree where the student receives a D for communication courses not on the list above. These reflect Communication minimums. Each degree program may have additional graduation requirements.
2. Course substitutions for catalog requirements may be made only upon approval of the program faculty advisor or school chair.
3. Some production or writing courses require participation in activities outside of the class meeting hours. Students should be prepared to participate in these activities that sometimes include assignments in conjunction with the campus media.
4. Some lecture courses require attendance at school colloquia and/or other University presentations. Students should be prepared to participate in these assignments as a part of their degree program.

An option in Speech Communication and Theatre is offered: Secondary Education, BSE (41-695) - Speech Communication and Theatre Option (E362) (123 hours)  

Admission Policies

1. See Communication guidelines for admissions policies. In addition;
2. All students must complete COMM 1100  with a 2.0 or above in order to apply to Communication and the Communication Studies program.
3. Students must identify one (or more) areas: either ‘communication consultancy’ or ‘social influence and media’ or ‘relational’.

Graduation Policies

1. Course substitutions for course requirements may be made only by your faculty advisor or school chair.
2. In order to graduate with a degree in Communication Studies, a student must obtain at least a 2.25 cumulative grade-point average
3. Students must complete the Senior Capstone (COMM 4790 ) in order to graduate.

Communication Studies Major, B.S. Degree (43-602) 4 Year Guide