Corporate Communication
College of Adult Undergraduate Studies
Deborah Calhoun, Ph.D., Chair, Business and Economics Department
Barbara Mento, M.E.S., Mathematics, Physics and Computer Studies Department
Joseph Schaub, Ph.D., Chair, Communication Arts Department
The corporate communication program of the School of Arts and Sciences offers a major to students in the College of Adult Undergraduate Studies. Integrating courses in business, communication arts and computer studies, the major in corporate communication serves students whose primary interest is the communication function in organizations and prepares them to succeed in managerial positions in diverse types of organizations. Using their expertise in technology, graduates of this program are able to communicate effectively through organizational channels and to exercise leadership in helping organizations achieve desired strategic goals.
Organizations and their managers face many challenges in a world that is changing at an ever-increasing pace. Effective, timely and accurate communication networks, communication processes and information management are critical strategic imperatives for every organization. The Internet, global markets and 24/7 competition place increased importance on the manager's role in communication and information management in every organization, from the largest corporations, to the entrepreneurial start-up, to the government agency, to the university or to the non-profit sector.
The major enables students to meet these challenges through an understanding of theoretical models and principles from the fields of communication, computer studies and management. Students test the practical applications of their learning to current professional problems and concerns of the workplace. The program emphasizes the design and implementation of communication and information management plans with an emphasis on managerial roles and responsibilities. Proficiency in the application of technology to organizational planning and operations is stressed, as well as strengthening student writing, speaking and critical thinking skills.
The educational goals of the corporate communication major are as follows:
- Provide a multidisciplinary curriculum based in the liberal arts
- Prepare students for the complexities of managing communication and information technology in today's organizations
- Present a unique and diversified curriculum that will prepare students for professional positions and provide current professionals with opportunities for career advancement
- Expose students to the ethical standards required in the management and communication of information
The curriculum supports students who aspire to management roles in diverse organizational areas, such as communication, information technology, entrepreneurship and administration. This degree program has direct linkages to positions in training and development, public administration, business, customer services, institutional administration, education, sales, marketing, consulting, operations, information technology and strategic planning.
Some of the corporate communication courses are online.
A minor in corporate communication is available by taking two courses listed in each area: business, communication arts and computer studies.
Students must earn a minimum grade of C in all courses taken to complete the requirements of the major.
Program of Study
The corporate communication major requires 39 credits (13 three-credit courses).
Course descriptions may be found in their respective discipline listings.
Required Courses for the Major in Corporate Communication
COM-206 Speaking in Professional Settings (Fulfills the general education requirement in oral communication.)
COM-313 Digital Media Skills
COM-401 Writing for the Web
COM-403 Organizational Communication
COM-430 Strategic Communication
CST-260 Web Animation
CST-261 Web Page Design
CST-355 Project Management [Prerequisite: CST-261]
CST-356 Internet/Intranet Information Management
BUS-302 Principles of Management
BUS-303 Principles of Marketing
BUS-310 Professional Communications [Prerequisite: ENG-101 or permission of instructor]
BUS-334 Teamwork and Negotiation