Communication is a flexible major that prepares students for the social, political, and economic challenges of the 21st century. Our courses relate to students' everyday experiences of interpersonal and mediated communication, but offer a depth of knowledge and inquiry necessary to better understand complex communication subjects like the relationship between social media use and mental health and how campaigns persuade people.
Students gain a foundation in communication theory, research, and methods and then have the opportunity to pursue electives across different communication areas including the:
- Effects of mass (e.g., television) and digital media (e.g., Facebook)
- How communication can create social change
- How communication influences who votes and who wins elections
- Ways to interact with health care providers to improve care
Students graduate with a well-rounded understanding of human behavior and communications, giving them the skills to go on to careers or further study in the health professions, education, psychology, marketing, business, public affairs, public policy, and journalism.
Portland has incredible opportunities for communication majors. Companies like Nike, Wieden+Kennedy, Intel, and the many nonprofits and government agencies are always looking for experienced communication professionals for internships and jobs.
Our engaged faculty help students connect what they’re learning in the classroom to real-world concepts, giving our communication students experience and knowledge they wouldn’t be able to get elsewhere. Our proximity to so many incredible employers also allows us to host guest speakers in our classes, giving students the opportunity to explore careers and make professional connections.
Graduating with a degree in communication can provide you with a unique skill set, opening up new job opportunities. Employers including media and broadcasters, government and nonprofits, advertising agencies, and a variety of other industries have recruited our students for positions such as communication manager, marketing specialist, outreach coordinator, advertising executive, technical writer, and community organizer.
Communication is a growing field that continues to expand and new technologies emerge. Our students are adaptable and able to quickly adjust and innovate.