Communication Studies

About

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A college student listens intently in class.

Why Choose Communication Studies at Gustavus?

Students who complete a Communication Studies degree are trained to be innovative, global citizens who are leaders and advocates in their interactions with others, in their professional lives, and in their communities. Our departmental strategic mission is to provide a high-quality, 21st century liberal arts communication studies education that equips students to meet the great challenges of our time.

Department Features

Gustavus' Communication Studies department is distinct and offers students a combination of opportunities not available anywhere else.

  • Project-based and community-engaged learning
  • Global and intercultural learning, on campus and abroad
  • Undergraduate research experiences
  • Innovative critical media education
  • Award-winning faculty members who are leaders in their fields

Students in Communication Studies gain skills essential in a liberal arts education.

  • Critical thinking/problem solving (e.g. creativity, analysis)
  • Written, oral, and visual communication skills (e.g. convey information clearly and to understand others)
  • Public speaking
  • Collaboration/teamwork
  • Leadership skills (e.g. dependability, emotional intelligence, strategic decision-making)
  • Information gathering and analysis
  • Interpersonal skills (e.g. empathy, active listening, conversational, nonverbal communication)
  • Intercultural skills (e.g. open-mindedness, understanding, adaptability)
  • Organizational skills (e.g. planning, attention to detail)

 

Knowledge, skills, and experience in Communication Studies translate to a variety of professions and civic leadership positions.

  • Social and digital media
  • Marketing and advertising
  • Meeting and event planning
  • Journalism
  • Media production
  • Public relations
  • Human resources
  • Writing and publishing
  • Government/politics
  • Non-profit leadership
  • Law
  • Many more - the skills students gain are adaptable to many professions

Podcasts with Department Faculty

"Purity, Protection, and Preservation" with Dr. Hagar Attia 
"Communication Studies, Reality TV, and Study Away in Vietnam" with Dr. Phillip Voight
"Communication Is the Intermediator of Everything We Do" with Dr. Martin Lang 
"Learning to Talk with One Another" with Dr. Pamela Conners

View Classes Taught by the Department

 

Academic Course Catalog

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