Communication Degree (B.A.), Student-Defined Concentration

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Design Your Future: Communication, B.A. with a Student-Defined Concentration

At Westfield State University, the Communication major offers more than just a degree—it’s an opportunity to shape your education around your interests and goals. With the Student-Defined Concentration, you can design a program customized to your passions and career plans. By working with your advisor and department chair, you’ll create a concentration that fits your vision while meeting the department’s guidelines. In addition to the 27-credit core, which includes courses like Global Communication, Media Writing, and Communication Ethics, you’ll have the flexibility to tailor your concentration and take electives from other departments, with approval, to further enhance your learning experience.

This program equips you with the skills and knowledge to excel in today’s fast-paced communication field while giving you the freedom to follow your unique path.

Program Highlights

  • Personal, one-on-one faculty advisors
  • On-site television studio, radio station, student newspaper
  • Internships locally and in Washington, D.C.
  • Alumni networking opportunities
  • Communication Club and Television Club

Create Your Personalized Journey Today

Turn your passions into a fulfilling career with a program tailored to your interests.

Design Your Path, Gain Real-World Experience

  • Student smiling at a computer in a web design class.

    Customizable Curriculum

    With the Student-Defined Concentration, you have the flexibility to design your own program that aligns with your unique interests and career aspirations. Work closely with faculty to create a concentration that meets your personal and professional goals, all while fulfilling department requirements and ensuring academic success.

  • As Schools Match Wits studio

    Hands-On Learning 

    Gain real-world experience through a wide range of electives and internships that allow you to apply classroom knowledge to actual projects and challenges in the field of communication. Whether you're working in media, public relations, or digital communication, you'll have the chance to develop practical skills that will set you apart in the job market.

  • Faculty member speaking with students in a small group.

    Faculty Advising and Mentorship

    At Westfield State University, you’ll learn from experienced faculty members who are passionate about communication and dedicated to your success. Through personalized guidance and mentorship, they will help you navigate your academic journey, provide insights into the industry, and prepare you for a rewarding career.

     

Program Details

Learning Outcomes

The Communication Department prepares students to be well-informed, responsible citizens and creative and ethical communication practitioners. The department is unique in offering this balance of theory and practice, which is manifest through our courses, our widely respected internship program, and our students’ involvement in a wide and diverse variety of campus and community organizations.

From the local to the global level, our students and graduates apply their knowledge and skills to pursue further knowledge, establish professional careers, and improve their communities.

What Can You Do with a Communication, Student-Defined Concentration, B.A.?

A Communication, Student-Defined Concentration, B.A. equips you with a customizable skill set and knowledge base to prepare for diverse career paths. With the flexibility to tailor your concentration to your interests, you can position yourself for opportunities in fields such as:

  • Corporate Communication
  • Journalism
  • Media Production
  • Marketing and Advertising
  • Nonprofit and Advocacy Work
  • Public Relations
Two communication students wearing caps and gowns at commencement.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

Under unique circumstances and with the approval of both their advisor and the department chair, students may design their own concentration within the major, provided that it meets specifications established by the department.

Requirements for the Communication Major - 45 Credits

Required Major Core - 27 Credits

Note:

STUDENTS MUST ELECT ONE OF THE FOLLOWING CONCENTRATIONS: Communication and Culture, Journalism, Public Relations, Media Arts and Analysis, or the Student-Defined Concentration. In addition to the required courses for each concentration, students are required to take electives, one of which must bear a COMM designation. If the concentration requires three or more electives, one of the remaining electives may be chosen from the approved elective list from any of the other concentrations.

Note:

Other electives available in the University’s other departments of study may be chosen with the recommendation of the student’s advisor and the approval of the department chair.

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features With Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 17:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    Internship Opportunities

Caring Educators With Real-World Experience

All of our talented faculty have graduate degrees in the subjects they teach. Additionally, most have relevant industry experience. That means you’ll not only benefit from a robust foundation in communication theory, but you’ll also have the benefit of learning from those who’ve actually done the work you’re preparing to do. This unbeatable combination will give you the edge in the field of communication.

Faculty Page

Communication students and faculty smiling at commencement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

How can I find the Communication Department on social media?

You can follow us on several social media platforms below:

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Communication Degree (B.A.), Student-Defined Concentration