The program is designed to challenge students interested in studying the many forms of human communication-its process, outcomes, and effects. The core of this investigation centers on the ways in which human beings purposefully utilize symbols in interaction to create or modify a socially meaningful world. Through courses and internships, the program combines a strong liberal arts background with a professional focus. Inherent in the program's courses and internships is the integration of communication theories and the liberal arts tradition. This is accomplished through the strategic application of theory to the hands-on practice of communication.
Communication is a discipline that involves the study of symbolic behavior in many contexts.
Regardless of their specialties, communicators are involved in fundamentally similar activities. They gather and process information, and create and disseminate messages. Advertisers, journalists, public-relations practitioners, public speakers, television, radio, film, or multimedia producers, and all who communicate with others engage in these essential operations. A certificate in Art and Advertising Design is offered jointly by the Departments of Communication and Art and Art History for those students who want to gain a foundation in art and concentrate on developing skills in design and advertising. Four certificate programs are offered primarily for working adults interested in focusing a limited number of courses in applied areas of communication that have a direct connection a to their career goals and afford them an opportunity to enhance their communication skills.