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

Our communication studies program equips you with essential skills for media and public relations careers. You'll develop expertise in analyzing written, spoken, visual, and digital content through historical, critical, and social science lenses. The program also teaches message creation as both an art form and practical tool. We offer three specialized tracks: Rhetoric and public communication - Develops your abilities as an ethical communicator, active listener, and skilled writer. You'll sharpen your critical thinking about information and arguments while acquiring leadership and advocacy skills valuable in corporate, nonprofit, and community environments. 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 broadcasts and film festivals. Organizational/corporate communication - Merges fundamental communication coursework with studies of business communication systems, professional training, consulting practices, and corporate messaging strategies across commercial, community, and government sectors.