Communication Studies

Be a Force for Change as an Empowered Communicator

More about the Communication Studies Department

The Communication Studies Department at Gustavus Adolphus College educates students to be innovative, global citizens who are leaders and advocates in their interactions with others, in their professional lives, and in their communities.

Communication Studies explores social, political, and cultural influences on communication and media. At Gustavus, award-winning Communication faculty use an interdisciplinary approach to equip students with critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and communication skills. This formula for success is why Gustavus Communication Studies majors do well getting employed or in graduate school immediately after they leave the Hill.

Majors, Minors, and Related Programs

As a Communication Studies major or minor, you leave campus ready to address contemporary social issues, shape public discourse, and pursue successful careers in fields such as marketing, journalism, social media/content creator, human resources, and event planning. Through your courses, you will:

Effectively create and present oral, written, and mediated communication.
Apply communication theory to identify and critique patterns of meaning and power.
Demonstrate understanding of theory and the relationship among theory, method, and practice.
Respond ethically to communicative practices and perspectives.
Effectively engage opportunities for positive social change.

Majors & Minors

Communication Studies

Related Programs

Lead the Conversation with Public Deliberation and Dialogue

Public Deliberation and Dialogue is a co-curricular program that creates spaces for meaningful discussion among students and community members to practice public communication and improve collective decision-making.
In a group setting, you will come together around a topic and engage in discussions that challenge your perspectives and expand your understanding of the world around you. You'll develop valuable communication skills that will serve you for a lifetime.

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Students present their research in a beautiful building.

Opportunities in Communication Studies

Build the Skills That Set You Apart

Communication is everywhere, which is why there are no shortage of opportunities to get involved with Communication Studies outside the classroom. Dive into career exploration, study away, student organizations, and more. Here are some of the best opportunities available to you:

Internships — Gain professional experience and connect with industry leaders in areas such as public relations, marketing, and journalism

Study Away — Develop global competencies as you experience new cultures by studying abroad

Community-Engaged Learning — Collaborate with local organizations and community members while building leadership and communication skills

Research — Conduct research alongside faculty members, gaining hands-on experience that will prepare you for your future

Learning Facilities — Beck Academic Hall provides a beautiful space for learning with flexible classroom space adaptable to group discussions and small group work, a digital arts lab, and smaller study and student interaction rooms

Lambda Pi Eta — Join the National Communication Association's official honor society to network and collaborate with members in more than 500 chapters nationwide

Explore Opportunities in Communication Studies

Each professor has a unique style that promotes student engagement and application of theory and practice. ”

Elizabeth Orton ’25

Communication Studies Major

Exploring Communication in Minnesota with a Global Context

As a Communication Studies student at Gustavus Adolphus College, you're part of the top-rated Communication programs among Minnesota private schools. Located in beautiful Saint Peter, MN, the Gustavus Adolphus campus is a fun place to learn and form supportive relationships with proximity to big-city events, cultural activities, and communities. You're minutes away from the medium-sized city of Mankato and an hour from the dynamic Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Offering community-based, global, and intercultural learning, our program is a launching pad to wherever you want your education to take you.

Contact Communication Studies

Email: com [at] gustavus.edu (com[at]gustavus[dot]edu)

Phone: (507) 933-7414

Department Chair: Sarah Wolter

Beck Academic Hall, 352
800 West College Avenue
Saint Peter, MN 56082

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