Communication Studies, BA
Come to USF and explore all aspects of communication, from the public practices of business, politics, and protest to the private interactions of family, friends, and strangers.
You’ll develop the cultural awareness and critical thinking skills you need to analyze and produce a broad range of discourse in a range of fields — public relations, marketing, advertising, social media, television, radio, magazines, human resources, event planning, education, nonprofits, technology. Come learn to make a difference in whatever you do.
What is communication studies?
Communication studies addresses the ways in which words, images, gestures, and symbols reflect and affect human behavior. At USF, we explore the many ways that communication can be used — and sometimes abused — to effect change in culture, law, politics, business, and every other realm in which people express themselves.
Allison Thorson
Chair and Professor
What makes USF communication studies different?
Our program offers a unique blend of immersive, hands-on training and rigorous theoretical and analytical study, leading to a 91% internship rate. Our students excel in writing, verbal communication, critical thinking, and social dynamics—paving the way for a successful entry into the workforce."
Allison Thorson
Chair and Professor
What are the communication studies career paths?
Our graduates work and intern in a range of jobs in a broad range of fields — public relations, marketing, advertising, social media, television, radio, magazines, human resources, event planning, education, nonprofits, and technology. We’ve also had graduates start their own businesses and others go on to graduate school in communication, law, public health, strategic communications, and education.
Antonio Reza '18
Santa Clara University JD Candidate
Why study communication?
I chose communication studies because you need to communicate every day of your life, whether it be your social life or in your jobs. Without successful communication so many misunderstandings arise.”
Antonio Reza '18
Santa Clara University JD Candidate
What it’s like inside a USF communication studies class?
Some lectures. Lots of discussion. Hands-on practice. One day in class, your professor might show a social media post from a politician or celebrity. You and your classmates analyze, critique, and discuss that post from different angles, such as its medium, its message, its meanings both expressed and implied, the credibility of the messenger, and the cultural impact of the message. Then you write your own social-media post in response.
How ChatGPT Bested Me and Worsted My Students
Professor Brandi Lawless shares why we should have more open conversations with students about AI.
Why I Majored in Communication Studies
Mercy Bertero '21 talks about amazing classmates, supportive professors, and why communication matters.
