Communication

Gary L. Atkins, MA, Chair

Objectives

The Communication Department provides courses designed to give students an awareness of the role of communication in society, as well as practical experience in developing their talents in oral, written, visual, and digital communication.

The communication studies major blends theoretical understanding and practical experience in a variety of contexts, including interpersonal, intercultural, organizational, global media and digital communication situations.

The journalism major develops students’ competence in gathering and disseminating stories through the media, using reporting, writing, visual, and digital skills. Journalism majors can emphasize preparation for journalistic careers in print, broadcast, or online media.

The strategic communications major introduces students to an integrated approach to managing all communications functions, including the underlying theoretical frameworks, innovative industry practices, and influencing the role of communication in global organizations.

Students are restricted to completing only one major or minor within the Communication Department. For example, students may not double major in communication studies and journalism, or major in journalism and earn a minor in communication studies.

General Program Requirements

Admission: Entry into the communication studies, journalism, or strategic communications major requires a 2.75 grade point average. New transfer students entering Seattle University must have at least a 2.75 GPA in their previous college course work. Current Seattle University students changing majors to enter the Communication Department must have a 2.75 GPA in their previous Seattle University course work.

Minimum Grades: All majors in the Communication Department must obtain a minimum grade of C (2.00) in each of the following required courses: CMJR 205 , CMJR 225 , and CMJR 245 . In addition, journalism majors must obtain a minimum grade of C (2.00) in each of the following required courses: CMJR 210 , CMJR 220 , and CMJR 300 . Please note that many of these courses are prerequisites for more advanced courses. Students must receive a grade of C (2.00) or better in all of these prerequisite courses in order to take advanced courses where those prerequisites are required.