There is a trend toward increased coordination between marketing people and corporate communications, so that all individuals within are working toward the same goal, it's called integrated marketing communications. She said that more and more companies are tying together their advertising, public relations and marketing departments. And taking that one step beyond, they need a consistent message internally, too, so employees understand and are in tune with the message being sent out to the public. Fine said that in revamping the program she has tried to ensure that students are gaining practical values and skills. For those looking to shift careers or employers, this gives them something practical for their portfolio.
Students are able to put together a flexible program by way of electives.
Others are interested in health care administration and take two courses from that area. Still others are interested in culture and communication and take courses in Simmons' Gender and Cultural Studies Program. Next fall Oral Presentation, and Public Relations in the 21 st Century will be offered. Required courses in the program include Communicating Across Cultures and Emerging Communications Technologies. Another required course, Financial Aspects of Business, serves as an introduction to basic finance and accounting.