Students who are fascinated by media and media applications choose the Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication Media Studies (TCMS). The BS in TCMS  features a specialized study of telecommunication, media and quantitative systems. Students select communication courses that address media industries, law and policy, technology and society, media audiences, processes, and effects. The practice of media and acquisition of media skills are included. Students may customize this degree by selecting additional coursework to round out their particular media interests. The degree is supported with the study of research methods and quantitative concepts in statistics and research design.

Coursework for incoming Freshmen begins with a dedicated first semester experience which introduces them to the breadth of the field of communication and of media while also involving them in small groups and acquainting them with Texas A&M University, our resources and our opportunities. We also welcome Transfer students, meeting them where they are and integrating them into the Communication family.

A Bachelor of Science degree in Telecommunication Media Studies works well in a broad variety of careers. Our students may become media designers, data analysts, digital media experts, online administrators, digital storytellers, content producers, filmmakers, digital media specialists, industry leaders, government officials, politicians, writers, artists, and informed citizens. The curriculum is designed to educate citizens for a productive future in an ever-changing world, preparing students for media-related positions in business, government, non-profit organizations, and higher education.

TCMS BS students will select a minor. They have the option to also select a certificate in Health Communication, Leadership and Conflict Management, Social Media, or Strategic Communication.

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COMM course may not be used to fulfill this requirement.

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First semester, first time in college students must take COMM 101 and COMM 291.

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Select from: COMM 100 to 499 (except COMM 203, COMM 243), CSCE 110, CSCE 206; ISTM 250, ISTM 310, ISTM 315, ISTM 325; ITSV 274; JOUR 102, JOUR 301/COMM 307; MGMT 209, MGMT 309; WGST 407/COMM 407.

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ENGL 203 will count toward the Communication requirement or the Literature directed elective requirement, but not both.

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Minor to be selected from among approved university minors. Consult with advisor regarding how to declare desired minor. Courses fulfilling core curriculum requirements may apply to the minor and therefore some of these courses may become electives. Minors will range between 15 and 18 hours.

Graduation requirements include 3 hours of International and Cultural Diversity courses and 3 hours of Cultural Discourse courses. A course satisfying a Core category, a college/department requirement, or a free elective can be used to satisfy this requirement. The required 6 hours may be met by courses satisfying other areas of a degree program. See your academic advisor for further information.  

Students take 24 credit hours of the required program core courses and 9-10 credit hours of telecommunication media studies elective courses for a total of 33 credit hours. At least 12 credits must be at the upper-division level. At least 12 credits must be taken in residence at Texas A&M University. Minimum grade of C in each course. No more than 3 credit hours of COMM 484; no more than 6 credit hours of COMM 485.

Teaching Certification

Students desiring certification to teach communication in secondary schools of Texas may either major in communication (College of Arts and Sciences) or in another field, but in either case, they must include the following courses in their degree plans:

Additional education courses are required. More complete information on the requirements for teacher certification may be found in the College of Education and Human Development section under secondary teacher certification.