BA in Communication Studies in Harrisonburg United States | James Madison University

We are a community dedicated to teaching, researching, and applying communication principles to foster ethical, fulfilling, and impactful lives and connections.

As one of JMU's largest departments with nearly 800 majors and minors, the School of Communication Studies offers six specialized concentrations plus a generalist track for broader exploration. Students enjoy diverse hands-on learning experiences including service projects, undergraduate research, internships, and study abroad programs.
Our programs equip students with contemporary academic tools to comprehend human interaction. Courses explore interdisciplinary approaches to analyzing messages and their effects, examining content and relational aspects across various communication contexts. The curriculum focuses on personal exchanges through both in-person and digital platforms at interpersonal, group, organizational, and public levels. Instruction incorporates social science research, historical/critical methods, and artistic approaches. Alumni thrive in diverse fields including business, education, government, healthcare, public relations, entertainment, human resources, politics, and event planning.

A communication studies degree also serves as excellent preparation for graduate programs in fields like counseling, law, management, ministry, and military service. Through both traditional and online formats, students develop practical communication skills via classroom activities, research initiatives, international studies, and internships. Graduates emerge ready to engage meaningfully as informed citizens in our interconnected world.