Communication Studies

Students and faculty explore the ways communication impacts the development of self, culture and society.

About the Major

Communication Studies is an organized approach to the ways interaction influences human relations. From examining "Persuasion in Campaigns and Social Movements" to focusing on the ability to create and defend a reasoned argument, the major explores the complexity of communication in the 21^st Century through the study of narratives, rhetoric, and human relationships – from the interpersonal to the public arena. The study of interaction is the foundation of the program with courses shaped around interpersonal, intercultural and organizational communication and its effect on relationships, dialogue, and decision-making.

About the Minor

A minor in Communications Studies consists of a minimum of 15 hours.

Departmental Honors

In order to earn departmental honors in Communications Studies, the Communications Studies major must meet the following requirements:

• Minimum grade point average overall of 3.5
• Achieve a grade point average of 3.5 in the major

Outreach and Engaged Learning

Co-curricular programs with the Mercer Debate Society involve attending regional and national intercollegiate debate tournaments. Information about debate scholarships is available on the department web page.

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Research opportunities are available through upper-level courses that are part of the Communications Studies programs. "Special Topics in Communication" and a directed independent study allow opportunities for research with faculty encouragement. In addition, the Lamda Pi Eta honor society coordinates attendance of regional and national academic conferences for members.

In the Classroom

The Communication Studies Faculty focuses on a curriculum that is broad and varied, so that you can discover what really interests you about the study of communication, improve your interpersonal communication and enrich your relationships.

Class size is usually 20-30 students in survey courses and 16-20 students in upper division seminars.

Beyond Mercer

The exploration of personal and public communication is invaluable when applied to academic and professional pursuits. The degree offers diverse opportunities in:

• Graduate studies
• Corporate careers
• Litigation
• Politics
• Health Communication
• Human Resources
• Strategic Communication and Consulting
• Negotiation
• Public Relations
• Cross-cultural Training

Need More Information?

Visit the department's Website.