Communication Studies

Why Huntingdon?

Huntingdon’s Communication Studies program focuses on students’ understanding of the elements involved with both how and why humans communicate the way they do in various contexts. The major covers both rhetorical and social science approaches to provide students with many ways of analyzing and understanding communication. Communication Studies major coursework covers subjects such as the effects of media on society; interpersonal communication; theories of communication; rhetorical theory and criticism; and public relations. A strong liberal arts core curriculum places special emphasis on the development and mastery of critical thinking and analysis skills.

The knowledge and skills gained through the Huntingdon Communication Studies major provide a framework for graduate study or for careers in sales and marketing, public relations, promotion, event planning, media, broadcasting, business, and a number of other fields.

Special features include:

• The Presidential Scholars Program and the Kingswood Initiative offer opportunities to learn and practice skills in sports media and in media production.
• Abundant professional internship opportunities in the capital city.
• The Hobbs Honors Program and Lambda Pi Eta communications honor society.
• Flexibility to accommodate a second major.
• Assistance from the Huntingdon Center for Career and Vocation as you consider internships or plan for graduate study or employment.

Communication at Work

Speaking, writing, relational communication and teamwork are all success skills fostered in the Communication Studies major. The knowledge you gain in the classroom will be reinforced by hands-on learning experiences. Huntingdon offers real world learning through:

• Internships in settings such as sport media, public relations, broadcasting, church media, political organizations or offices, and non-profit organizations.
• The Senior Capstone project—a culminating experience in the major.
• Opportunities to present at state, regional, and national conferences.
• On-campus colloquies, lectures, salons, and mini-conferences allowing exploration of special topics.