The Department of Communication Studies

Excellence in communication contributes to success in all aspects of personal, professional, and civic life. In the Department of Communication Studies, students concentrate on communication theory, research, and practice in a variety of contexts, including interpersonal, group/team, organizational, political, among many others.  The curriculum helps students focus on the leadership strategies needed to make a difference in contemporary society. Rooted in the humanities and social sciences and in the mastery of speaking and writing skills, our programs balance a solid grounding in theory with practical training in specific professional skills.

Why should you major in the Department of Communication Studies?

• Communication is a flexible major, sometimes called the “cover letter” major; it can be tailored to nearly every career and professional path.
• Graduates from the Department of Communication Studies have found jobs in business, entertainment, law, health and human services, politics/government, public relations, hospitality management and numerous other areas.
• The National Association of Colleges and Employers ranks “communication skills” as the most important quality for job applicants and for job success.
• One’s expertise in communication can help resolve conflict, encourage a diversity of viewpoints, and cultivate healthier interpersonal relationships.
• Communication skills are particularly valuable in uncertain economic climates.
• In the July 2009 report, “Preparing Workers Today for the Jobs of Tomorrow,”  the President’s Council of Economic Advisors clearly notes the following: “... professionalism/work ethic, teamwork/collaboration, oral communication, and critical thinking/problem solving are among the most important skills labor market entrants need” (p. 10).
  

Along with class work, students undertake internships that help develop and apply their knowledge in the working world. Most courses take place at the Boston campus, but students who want to study elsewhere can also do coursework and internships in a variety of locations such as Washington D.C. and Los Angeles.

The Department of Communication Studies is committed to ensuring that all Emerson students master deliberative communication skills that reflect the oral tradition and promise of the College and that prepare students for leadership in a global environment.

As students learn to research points of view competently, analyze them intelligently, and articulate them clearly and persuasively, they learn also to appreciate the ethical dimensions of their own and others’ communication practices. The Department is home to faculty and curriculum in Philosophy and Sociology, and these cognate disciplines inform our approaches to the study of human meaning making practices.

We are excited to invite you to come and to explore either Communication Studies or Political Communication as a major in the Department of Communication Studies. You will part of a program that remains marketable, valuable, and sustaining as our society continues to evolve!

Department News

• Emerson Forensics Competitor Places 1st in Pentathlon at St. Anslem Tournament (...details)
• Faculty Presents at the Embracing Differences Conference (...details)
• Forensics Team Wins Big (...details)
• NCA Convention in Chicago (...details)