Communication Studies

Bachelor of Science
  • 120 Credits
  • School of Liberal Arts
  • Manhattan
  • Westchester
  1. Academics
  2. Programs & Degrees
  3. Communication Studies
Adult student working toward his degree in class.

Communication Studies Overview

Communication Studies majors are taught to apply communication history, theory, law, and principles to solve communication challenges. They will explore theoretical questions, such as why we communicate, what it means to be a good communicator, and how to practice the nuanced art of communication.

Students will develop speaking, writing and listening skills and prepare to become creative problem solvers in an ever-changing, always-on digital world. Our comprehensive curriculum offers a balanced combination of theory and practice, small class sizes, and tailored course-work in line with students’ career goals. 

HEOP Student

Career Opportunities

Employers often rank written and verbal communication skills as top attributes when recruiting for new employees. Communication Studies students gain marketable skills that will put their resumes on the top of the pile.

Our graduates pursue competitive careers in corporate communications, marketing, advertising, content development, and public relations. Representative job titles include:

  • Public relations assistant
  • Social media strategist
  • Content writer
  • Marketing and advertising specialist
  • Community relations specialist

Public Relations Specialization

Foundation in public relations writing, strategy and techniques. 

120 Credits 

Classes in Media in America, Interpersonal Communication and Publicity Writing

Value

Communication Studies students benefit from a great degree of flexibility in their career paths. 

Communication Studies

The Mercy Advantage

Small class sizes allow for meaningful academic advising from highly qualified faculty with extensive industry experience.

Some courses completely online.

Students will gain hands-on professional industry experience in the hub of the communications industry, New York City. You will have the exciting opportunity to complete internships at PR firms, advertising agencies, non-profits, and a variety of organizations in New York and beyond.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, faculty are always ready to help students with questions about what courses to take, the sequencing of courses, and career opportunities, including internships and cooperative education.

Full-time students can complete the 120-credit degree program in four years.

The program is taught by scholars with academic expertise, as well as practitioners with extensive industry experience. Because the study of communication is inherently interdisciplinary, you will have the benefit of learning from faculty with a wide variety of practical skills and professional insight.

While some Communications Studies courses are offered online, the majority of courses are taught onsite at both our Dobbs Ferry and Manhattan campuses, two convenient locations in the NYC metropolitan area.

Up to 75 credits from a two-year institution. Up to 90 from a four-year institution. Up to 90 credits combined however the credits may not exceed 75 credits from any combination of two-year institutions as they apply to your chosen degree. In addition you may only transfer in two courses of upper-level business credit (six credits) to apply to the major / specialization.

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Program Outcomes

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Articulate various viewpoints using media of their choosing

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Apply communication history, theory, and principles to communication problem-solving

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Evaluate and incorporate reliable information in the analysis

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Be aware of and sensitive to the impact of diverse cultures in discussing, analyzing, and developing communication strategies

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Present an analysis of how communication law and ethical principles apply to their profession

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Produce well constructed, logical, written expressions that conform to standard written English

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Critique and create visual images in support of professional communications

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Describe the application of theory and skills to address communication challenges, meet goals, and solve communication problems

Program Degrees & Curriculum

General Education Requirements: 60 Credits

Major Concentration:
Communication Studies 42 Credits
Open Electives: 18 Credits

Total: 120 Credits

For a full curriculum listing visit our catalog. 

Employment Rate in Profession

  # of Graduates Percent of Graduates
2018 - 2019 43/45 96%
2017 - 2018 45/45 100%
2016 - 2017 45/45 100%
3 Year Average:   99%

Program Completion Rate

  # Completed Program Percentage Completing
2019 - 2020 43/44 98%
2018 - 2019 45/46 98%
2017 - 2018 45/47 96%
3 Year Average:   97%

Praxis Examination Pass Rate

  # Passed Percentage Completing
2019 - 2020 38/38 100%
2018 - 2019 45/45 100%
2017 - 2018 45/45 100%
3 Year Average:   100%

 

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Full-Time Faculty

Part-Time Faculty