Communication - BS

The Bachelor of Science in Communication harnesses the power of collaborative communication to solve problems through the very essence of this degree, communication intervention. Communication intervention is the skill of collaborating with others effectively to modify outcomes, conditions and processes while also preventing harm with the goal of transforming system functioning. It draws from a transdisciplinary Liberal Arts and STEM knowledge base. It is a critical key to analyzing and addressing 21^st century challenges.  We address problem-solving by integrating the critical thinking and perspective taking skills embraced by the Liberal Arts with the analytical and quantitative proficiencies of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math.)  The Bachelor of Science in Communication provides a marketable set of skills aimed toward communication intervention in areas such as business, health communication, media, politics, non-profits and social issues. In addition to core curriculum required by the University and the State of Texas, Bachelor of Science students will take foundation coursework in the social scientific study of communication and intervention, communication technology, communication research methods, acquisition, analysis and visualization of data, team facilitation and collaboration, and the design, implementation and assessment of communication interventions.

The field of communication is supremely diverse and varied as are the careers pursued by our majors.  We address both the science and art of communication in human interactions. Embracing cutting-edge applications, communication specialists are found selling products and promoting initiatives, engaging in public relations, advertising, marketing strategies, digitizing messages, launching and sustaining new media entrepreneurial ventures, facilitating the relationship of doctors and patients, mounting health campaigns and measuring their effects, working on political campaigns, mobilizing the vote, analyzing the ROI of social media initiatives, leading interactions to heal public discord, managing and leading organizations, disseminating concepts, and describing, interpreting and evaluating a wide range of communication phenomena.

The BS is contrasted with the BA in the following ways. First, within the major coursework, the courses central to the degree are social scientific in nature. Second, instead of a foreign language requirement, BS students pursue a set of quantitative courses which includes statistics, computer applications and two research methods courses. Third, instead of a required minor, BS students are required to select and complete a certificate from the Department of Communication.  The certificate will provide context and expertise for the communication intervention science focus.  Currently, students may choose from a focus in Social Media, Strategic Communication, Leadership and Conflict Management, Global Media, Health Communication or Diversity and Social Justice.

Similar to the Bachelor of Arts in Communication, 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. All Communication majors take a specified core of required courses that establishes a firm foundation in the field and then select additional coursework that suits their interests and needs. 

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.