Welcome from the Chair
To say that the Department of Communication Studies is on the move would be an understatement! With the advent of a new academic year comes a new era in the Department. While I celebrate my one year anniversary as Chair, it's no secret to anyone who knows me that I tell everyone that the Department is the most engaged, student-centered unit on campus (yeah, I know, my bias is showing!). This year, particularly in uncertain economic times, a major in either Political Communication or Communication Studies is the recipe for success. With the recent White House report noting that "communication" is the most important skill needed for those entering the labor market, our courses have even more value. Finally, with our courses integrating such liberal arts values as critical thinking, creative problem-solving, cultural sensitivity, and ethical decision-making, our majors set themselves apart from other communication programs that do not embrace these fundamental principles.
This year, the Department is hosting speakers, events, colloquia, and speech/debate tournaments. We have welcomed two new faculty members from Kentucky and Colorado and are undergoing a national search for two additional professors. We have a very engaged cohort in the "Washington, D.C. semester" and other internship locales. A new initiative called Model U.N. has been launched, the Communication, Politics, and Law Association’s Pizza & Politics Series remains wildly successful, the Communication Studies Club/Lambda Pi Eta mentors students needing assistance in their speaking skills, and our forensics team continues its ascent into national rankings! All the while, we are delivering a curriculum to a record number of majors!
We would be honored for you to join us if you wish to be a part of a major that is the foundation of all human activity.
Explore these pages to find out more about our programs and offerings. If you have any questions or need more information, contact the Department. If you have questions about admission to Emerson College, I invite you to visit the pages for the Admission Office. Or, if you’re more comfortable, please contact me.
Now, is the time to study and to practice communication. We'd like to be part of that conversation!
Richard West, Ph.D.
