The College of Communications at Penn State . All majors in the college offer a sequence of courses that provides students with a blend of applied and conceptual courses, while assuring that students receive a broad-based education rooted in the liberal arts and sciences. Coursework focuses on the U.S. system of mass communications, the relationship of advertising and public relations to that system, and the ethical problems and issues that arise in the practice of advertising and public relations. Students learn to develop clear and effective communication skills and to work under the pressure of deadlines.
Professional opportunities require that students be assertive and patient.
Making contacts and networking are the keys to getting started. Graduates must prove themselves, decide what kind of work they want to pursue, and move to the centers where the work is available. Students can develop a print, broadcast, or photo journalism focus, and are required to declare a minor. Students should seek opportunities to gain practical experience in college, and be flexible when seeking their first job. New study abroad opportunities are also available at the University of Jonkoping in Sweden and the University of Leipzig in Germany.