Majors
Communication
Bethany’s communication major equips students to connect with diverse audiences through ethical, effective, and technologically informed communication.
Craft Words That Connect with Bethany’s Communication Major
Bethany’s communication major engages students in the study of human communication. Many of our graduates are recognized nationally for their skills in video and broadcast media. Our graduates develop skills for connecting effectively with diverse audiences through the variety of channels available today. They have insight into audience analysis, are familiar with technology, are able to think about problems clearly, and demonstrate the ability to write and speak with precision and power. Additionally, our students consider the field from a Christian perspective.
Take a Closer Look
In order to get a better idea of what your classes and schedule could possibly look like for this major, take a look at the Sample Academic Plan.
To view the most recent course list and requirements for the Communication major, please consult the Academic Catalog.
Entry into the Communication Major
A student desiring to enter the major will make a formal application to do so at some point following the successful completion of three college semesters.
Entry to the Communication major will be granted based on the following qualifications:
- Achievement of at least a 2.8 GPA in all of the pre-major communication requirements.
- Successful completion of Major Admission Application and portfolio submission. Special circumstances may be considered by the communication division faculty.
Communication Major Course List
Pre-major requirements should ordinarily be taken in the first two college years:
- COMM111 Fundamentals of Speech 3 cr.
- COMM212 Interpersonal Communication 3 cr.
- COMM230 Argument and Advocacy 3 cr.
- COMM240 Introduction to Mass Media 3 cr.
- ENGL100 Stretch Composition I 6 cr. or ENGL110 College Writing I 3 cr.
- ENGL210 College Writing II 3 cr.
Declaration of major process can begin here.
Core Requirements
All communication students will be required to pass each of the following six core courses with at least a “C–” grade, while maintaining a 2.8 GPA requirement in Program Courses:
- COMM318 Small Group Communication 3 cr.
- COMM340 Rhetorical Traditions 3 cr.
- COMM389 Intercultural Communication 3 cr.
- COMM440 Communication Theory 3 cr.
- COMM475 Media Ecology 3 cr.
- COMM499 Communication Internship minimum of 3 cr. required
Major Electives
At least 33 upper division (300–400 level) communication (COMM) credits are required for graduation with a communication major. Students may with advance planning create “Areas of Emphasis” consisting of groups of three or four upper division courses focusing on a particular aspect of communication studies. Emphases may consist of COMM offerings combined with courses that deal with communication in other disciplines — these courses all count toward the 33 credit requirement.
Areas of Emphasis
“Emphases” (groups of three or four upper division courses also focusing on a particular aspect of communication studies) provide communication students maximum flexibility in tailoring programs to fit their interests and needs. Emphases make the communication major truly interdisciplinary, since courses can be drawn not only from communication (COMM) offerings, but from other curricular areas as well.
Internship Requirements
An essential component of the communication program, fieldwork experiences (internships) provide opportunities for students to apply classroom learning in real-life situations, explore career options, and build meaningful resumes.
Communication internships are available only to communication students COMM499 Communication Internship. At least three internship credits are required for graduation and count toward major requirements. As many as seven additional credits may be earned as upper division electives.
Students who minor in communication and desire an internship experience should pursue one within their chosen major.
Communication Minor Course List
The communication minor requires:
- COMM111 Fundamentals of Speech 3 cr.
- COMM212 Interpersonal Communication 3 cr.
- COMM475 Media Ecology 3 cr.
One of the following:
One of the following:
- COMM318 Small Group Communication 3 cr.
- COMM340 Rhetorical Traditions 3 cr.
- COMM440 Communication Theory 3 cr.
Six additional credits at the three- or four-hundred level communication (COMM) courses
Contact the Communication Department
Communication Major Faculty
Jon Loging
Associate Professor
Derick Lyngholm
Associate Professor, Head Coach Men’s Soccer
Next Steps
Interested in studying at Bethany? Scheduling a campus visit is a great way to see what we have to offer. You can meet professors or sit in on a class too! Contact our admissions office to learn more.
