Communication Studies, B.A.

Communication is at the heart of the human experience. The Communication Studies major explores both theory and practical applications for communication concepts and skills. The major provides students with the ability to pursue a versatile general degree with transferable skills such as speaking, writing, collaborating and critical thinking. Or students can apply those skills and focus deeply in areas like digital creativity, integrated marketing communication, interpersonal communication and more. Students will engage in a variety of high impact practices including client and team projects, social media plans, documentaries and more.

Undergraduate Coordinator: Tammala Bulger

Oral Requirement

To satisfy the oral communication requirement for the B.A. degree in Communication Studies a student must successfully complete COM 101 .

Applied Learning Requirement

To satisfy the applied learning requirement for the B.A. degree in Communication Studies a student must successfully complete COM 400 . Additional elective opportunities include COM 491 , COM 498 , COM 499 .

Requirements for a Major in Communication Studies

COM 101 - Public Speaking
COM 105 - Introduction to Communication Studies
COM 200 - Research Methods in Communication Studies
COM 301 - Rhetorical Theory
COM 305 - Communication Theory
COM 400 - Communication Studies Capstone
plus 24 additional hours of communication studies coursework
At least 12 of these 24 hours must be at the 300 or 400 level.
At least three of these 12 must include a 400-level course other than COM 491 or COM 498 .

Restrictions

With respect to these 24 hours, note the following restrictions on the maximum number of credit hours from these courses:

COM 104 - Concepts in Communication Studies (0 hours)
COM 160 - Engaging Contemporary Media (0 or 3 hours)
COM 212 - Storytelling in the Community (3 hours)
COM 295 - Introductory Seminar in Communication Studies (6 hours)
COM 491 - Directed Individual Study (0 hours)
COM 495 - Advanced Seminar in Communication Studies (6 hours)
COM 498 - Internship in Communication Studies (3 hours)

Total Credit Hours: 42 hours

Additional Information

A student may declare pre-communication studies (PCOM) as their intended major after earning a minimum of 24 semester credit hours and adding COM 105 to their semester schedule. Once COM 105 appears on their degree audit as in progress, the student can complete the declaration process. To continue in the major, the student must earn a B or above in COM 105. A PCOM major may declare communication studies (COM) as their major after earning a grade of “B” or above in COM 200. A student may repeat or audit one foundations class, either COM 105 or COM 200, one time in order to replace a grade lower than a “B.” A final grade of “F” due to admitted or adjudicated academic dishonesty shall not be replaced if the course is repeated. and thus will disqualify a student from admission to the major. All UNCW continuing and transfer students are subject to this gateway requirement at the time of application.

A minimum “C” (2.00) average across the six core courses and 24 additional hours of communication studies coursework is required. Differently titled courses with the numbers 295 or 495 may be repeated for additional credit.

A maximum number of credit hours may be counted toward graduation from these courses as follows: COM 212 (8 hours), COM 491 (9 hours), COM 498 (12 hours).