BA in Communication Studies in Dekalb United States | Northern Illinois University

Our communication studies program equips you with essential skills for media and public communication careers. You'll develop the ability to critically examine written, spoken, visual, and digital communications through historical, analytical, and social science lenses. The program also teaches you to craft messages as both artistic creations and practical tools. We offer three specialized tracks: Rhetoric and public communication - Develops your abilities as an ethical communicator, sharpening your skills in speaking, writing, and critical analysis. You'll gain leadership and advocacy competencies valuable across business, nonprofit, and community organizations. Media studies - Prepares you for careers in media creation and production. The curriculum explores media technology evolution, how different formats shape content, and strategies for thoughtful media consumption. The film/video component focuses on producing content for television broadcast and film festivals. Organizational/corporate communication - Merges foundational communication courses with specialized studies in business communication systems, training methods, consulting practices, and corporate messaging strategies across various sectors.