Communication Studies
The communication studies program offers a solid foundation of human communication in all its forms. From public speaking to journalism to theatre, this program allows students to build an individualized plan of study, tailoring their degree to match their interests and goals. Students can earn either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree depending on their selected coursework.
Program Benefits
Graduate with the skills you need to be competitive in a variety of careers.
Learn from faculty who possess high degrees in their fields, who have relevant and valuable real-world experience, and who make an effort to know you personally.
Tailor your coursework and degree to match your interests and goals.
What to Expect
As a student in Trevecca’s communication studies program, you’ll gain a solid foundation of human communication in all its forms. Core coursework allows you to study intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group, organizational and mass communication. In addition, you’ll grow your presentation skills, learn research methods, take part in a career internship and complete an extensive and exciting senior project.
From public speaking to journalism to theatre, this program provides you with maximum flexibility to tailor your education to match your interests and goals. You’ll work with faculty advisors to put together your own unique plan of study. If your coursework consists primarily of dramatic arts and public speaking, you’ll earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. If you concentrate more on interpersonal, organization, mass media, or journalism courses, you’ll earn a Bachelor of Science degree. No matter which path you choose, a communication studies degree prepares you to succeed in a variety of industries and fields.
Why Choose Trevecca?
Founded in 1901 and a leader in online education for more than two decades, Trevecca helps students discover and pursue an individual calling by providing innovative instruction; cultivating a supportive, Christ-centered community; and establishing relationships that open doors.
Recognized nationally and locally for academic quality, Trevecca has earned a reputation for providing the world with servant leaders, problem solvers and difference makers. Trevecca’s holistic approach to education encompasses intellectual, social, emotional, physical and spiritual growth.
As a Christian university, we offer programs that explore the ways faith intersects with your field of study. This means you can gain your communication studies degree in a supportive, Christian community with small classroom sizes and engaged faculty members who care about you, your faith and your goals.
Course Descriptions
Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.
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Financial Aid & Costs
Nearly every student at Trevecca receives some form of assistance in paying for college. Learn all about the affordability of a TNU education and options for receiving aid.
Career Opportunities
With a degree from our communication studies program, you’ll have incredible job flexibility and earning potential. Your degree will prepare you to be successful in roles like these:
- Social media coordinator
- 6-12th grade speech or drama teacher
- College admissions counselor
- Human resources director
- Public relations director
- Community engagement and fund raising director
- Event coordinator
- Corporate trainer
- Account manager
- Customer service director
- Conflict negotiator/mediator
- Marketing director
- Curriculum developer
- Legislative assistant
- Public information officer
- Communication director in church or other non-profit organization
“What I liked most was the faculty in the department. Not only did they take the time to know each student personally, but they made sure we felt comfortable asking questions about the content. I felt cared for, and it prepared me for my professional journey.”
Faculty
- Lena Hegi Welch Dean, School of Arts & Sciences | Professor of Communication Studies
- Jeffrey Wells Professor, Communication Studies
- Jeffrey Frame Professor, Dramatic Arts And Communication Studies
- Seth Conley Professor, Communication Studies
- JoEllen Werking Weedman Program Director, Master of Science in Strategic Communication | Associate Professor, Communication Studies
Course Descriptions
Get details on all the courses you’ll complete as you work toward this degree at Trevecca.
Business Information Technology
ITI 1900
Seeks to prepare students to use technologies that they will encounter as they pursue their calling in the world. Regardless of discipline students will need to work with databases, web technologies, publishing technologies, financial tools, online resources for Christian ministry, and perform research using computing technologies. Students will have an opportunity to explore and use these technologies in a project-based context.
Theories of Communication
COM 3010
Surveys the major theories of human communication. The study will focus on the origins, usefulness, and limitations of each theory for understanding communication events. This course will help prepare students to analyze and interpret human communication in all its forms (intrapersonal communication, interpersonal communication, small group transactions, organizational communication, public speaking, drama, and mass communication).
Advanced Public Speaking
COM 4000
Gives students practical experience in the preparation and presentation of the speeches that are usually required in business and the professions. Areas of instruction include speech making, oral reading of reports, and speech for radio and television.
Career Internship in Communication Studies
COM 4510
Intensive study, observation, and participation in various field projects designed and contracted between the student and instructor. Internships will be arranged in conjunction with the student's major. Maximum of 6 hours. Graded S/U.
Research Methods in Communication Studies
COM 4550
Introduces students to the most commonly used qualitative and quantitative methods of research associated with the discipline of communication.
Senior Project in Communication Studies
COM 4800
All majors in the Department of Communication Studies are required to present a senior project as a public performance. The project should relate to the student's specialized interest in the field, demonstrate his or her acquired skills, and be academically and vocationally beneficial as a culminative experience. The project must be approved by the faculty advisor at least one semester in advance. The number of credits is contingent upon the number of hours given to the project [40+ hours for one (1) credit; 80+ for two (2) credits.] Graded S/U.
Communication Studies Electives
COM xxxx
*Major requirements also include twelve (12) hours from four (4) of the following areas: Dramatic Arts, Interpersonal Communication, Organizational Communication, Media Arts & Studies, Multimedia Journalism
General Electives — 15-18 hours
*For a complete list of courses, tracks and other relevant information, view the program's course catalog.
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