COURSE CURRICULUM

The Communication BS General Option at RIT is a four-year program totaling 120 credit hours, designed to develop strong communication, analytical, and research skills across a variety of media and professional contexts. In the first year, students build a foundation in human communication, public speaking, and mass communication, along with general education courses in mathematics, writing, ethics, and global perspectives. This stage focuses on understanding how communication works in everyday and professional environments.In the second year, students begin exploring more specialized areas such as visual communication, communication law and ethics, and technology-mediated communication. They also study statistics and choose from interpersonal, small group, or intercultural communication, allowing them to develop practical and theoretical knowledge of how people interact in different settings. General education and immersion courses continue to broaden their academic experience.The third year emphasizes deeper theoretical and research-based learning through courses like communication theories and quantitative research methods, along with professional core courses and electives. Students also complete a required co-op experience during the summer, gaining hands-on industry exposure and applying their classroom knowledge in real-world communication roles.In the fourth year, students focus on advanced research skills with qualitative methods, complete communication electives, and finalize their learning through a senior thesis and portfolio. These capstone experiences help students showcase their skills and prepare for professional careers or further studies. Overall, the program combines theory, practical experience, and flexibility, preparing graduates for careers in media, corporate communication, digital content, and related fields.