Communication Arts & Sciences

Students who graduate with a degree in Communication Arts and Sciences have a tremendous advantage in the professional world. They have an edge on their peers in debates and presentations because they have a deeper understanding of how language works and how to communicate effectively. Their hard work has earned them confidence --->confidence that they are ready to face whatever challenges come along in the world.

One reason for this is the real-world experience of the professors. Dr. Joanna Schultz worked for years as a public relations professional and consultant. Dr. Sheri Bleam can help prepare you for graduate and law school because of her extensive experience in speech and debate at the regional and national levels. And Dr. Steve Shehan enhances his teaching with his experiences in marketing and political campaign work.

The Communication Department focuses on exposing you to the breadth of the entire field of communication, from media to rhetoric to public relations. Opportunities abound. You may complete a field study at COSI,a hands-on science Museum in Toledo, and the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, presenting your findings to the directors of the organizations. You can DJ on K-9 Radio, the campus radio station. You'll hear guest speakers such as Susan Douglas (women's changing roles in media) and Darnell Anderson (misogyny in rap videos). And you can choose from a variety of enriching internships. Recent internship sites include the Mitch Albom Show, Ford Motor Company's PR department, and the Toledo Mud Hens baseball team.

Graduates from the department have received assistantships at Illinois State, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, and Ohio University. Law school acceptances include UW-Madison, Notre Dame, Toledo College of Law, and the Judge Advocate General program of the U.S. Navy.

The Communication Arts & Sciences department offers two tracks in obtaining a Bachelor of Arts. They are Argumentation & Advocacy and Mass Mediated Studies. For a comparison of the courses offered for both tracks, please click here to view a diagram.