Communication Studies coordinates three distinct approaches to the media: practical application, historical study, and critical analysis. Practical application combines basic training in equipment operation, communication skills, production design, organizational skills, and professional internship. Historical study focuses on the evolution of the mass media, the relationship of the mass media and society, and public relations. Critical analysis explores media ethics, and the analysis and evaluation of specific mediated texts using qualitative and quantitative methods.

Students are encouraged to develop a specific advisory plan with the assistance of a faculty advisor. Advisory plans, based on the student’s specific interests, may focus on:

areas such as:
• journalism
• criticism
• public relations

media such as:
• radio, television
• film
• audio recording

career roles such as:
•television producer
• sports announcer
•reporter
•preparation for graduate school

The department emphasizes internships that provide students with real-world insights into the media. Students are advised to gain the practical experience and skills needed in the media marketplace by participating in a variety of internships. The department has developed professional media internships with community organizations, radio and television stations, newspapers, magazines, and other media groups.

All on-campus media operate in conjunction with Communication Studies classes.
On-campus media offer a variety of opportunities for students. They include the Star, the student newspaper; SSU-TV, a student-run campus television station; and World Wide, an internet radio station that can be heard at KSUN.

Facilities available to students include: recording studio, photography darkrooms, computer labs, a state-of-the-art theatre, a videotape/digital editing facility, an equipped studio for multi-camera video production, a newspaper production facility, and a cablecast radio station.

Communication Studies majors are employed in either the public or private sector. Students aim toward such entry-level positions as media craftsperson in video, audio, film, graphics, or radio; newspaper, radio or TV reporter; radio announcer; sports broadcaster; magazine writer, scriptwriter, advertising or public relations copywriter; graduate-level study in professional career preparation programs.
For additional information, please contact the Communications Studies Department.