COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in communication with a communication studies emphasis at Wichita State University is a 120-credit-hour degree designed to build strong analytical, interpersonal, and professional communication skills through a structured blend of theory and applied learning. Students must maintain a minimum 2.500 GPA overall and within the major while completing at least 39 credit hours in communication coursework, including 12 credit hours in a communication core and at least 27 credit hours within the communication studies emphasis. The core includes foundational courses such as COMM 205 Visual Technologies, COMM 206 Introduction to Multimedia, COMM 301 Writing for the Mass Audience, and COMM 350 Communication Strategy for the Mass Audience, which collectively develop skills in media production, writing for broad audiences, and strategic messaging. The emphasis area then allows deeper specialization through courses focused on communication theory, research, media analysis, interpersonal dynamics, leadership, and applied professional communication. Students choose from options such as COMM 312 Nonverbal Communication, COMM 313 Argumentation and Advocacy, COMM 335 International and Intercultural Communication, COMM 355 Race and Media, COMM 365 Pop Culture and Communication, and COMM 640 Issues in Corporate Communication, among others, ensuring flexibility to align studies with career interests in fields like public relations, corporate communication, human resources, media, and organizational leadership. In addition, students complete general education requirements and LAS competency courses through the Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, strengthening writing, critical thinking, and cultural understanding. The program also integrates experiential learning opportunities such as internships, cooperative education, and practicum experiences, allowing students to apply classroom concepts in real-world communication environments. Open electives provide further customization to reach the 120-credit requirement, enabling students to explore complementary disciplines or develop additional professional skills. Overall, the program emphasizes both academic knowledge and practical application, preparing graduates for diverse communication-related careers or advanced study by ensuring they leave with strong writing, speaking, media literacy, and strategic communication capabilities developed through structured coursework and hands-on experience.