B.F.A. in Architectural Design
James Madison University, located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is renowned for its commit...
B.S. in Communications Studies
Harrisonburg, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
James Madison University (JMU) offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Communication Studies program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of communication theories, principles, and practices. The program explores various aspects of communication, including interpersonal communication, organizational communication, media studies, and rhetoric, preparing students for careers in fields such as media, public relations, marketing, journalism, or corporate communication.
Curriculum: The curriculum of JMU's B.S. in Communication Studies program covers a wide range of topics relevant to the study of communication. Courses include communication theory, public speaking, persuasion, interpersonal communication, intercultural communication, media literacy, and communication research methods. Students also have the opportunity to explore elective courses in areas such as digital media, advertising, crisis communication, or political communication.
Research Focus: The B.S. in Communication Studies program at JMU emphasizes research skills development, allowing students to engage in both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Students learn how to design research studies, collect and analyze data, and apply communication theories to understand and address real-world communication challenges. Research topics may include communication in organizations, media effects, social media, or cross-cultural communication.
Industry Engagement: JMU's B.S. in Communication Studies program fosters industry engagement through internships, networking events, and partnerships with media organizations, public relations firms, advertising agencies, and corporate communication departments. Students have opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, co-op programs, or experiential learning projects, working on real-world communication campaigns, media productions, or strategic communication initiatives.
Global Perspective: In today's interconnected world, effective communication transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, requiring a global perspective. The B.S. in Communication Studies program at JMU integrates a global perspective by exploring communication practices, media systems, and cultural contexts in diverse regions of the world. Students learn to analyze and critique global media, navigate cross-cultural communication challenges, and adapt communication strategies for global audiences.
Location
Harrisonburg, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 30152
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 is required.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
- PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 58 is often required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 105 is required.
- SAT Requirement: A SAT score of 500 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
James Madison University (JMU) recognizes the importance of supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education and offers various scholarship opportunities to facilitate their academic journey.
International Undergraduate Merit Scholarships: JMU provides merit-based scholarships for outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. Eligible students are automatically considered during the admission process.
International Diversity Scholarships: To promote cultural diversity on campus, JMU offers International Diversity Scholarships. These scholarships aim to attract students from different backgrounds, fostering a global perspective within the university community. Eligibility criteria include a demonstrated diversity and inclusion.
College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges within JMU may offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. International students pursuing degrees in fields such as business, science, engineering, or the arts may have access to college-specific scholarship opportunities.
Global Engagement Scholarships: JMU encourages international students to actively engage with the global community. Global Engagement Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate a promoting cross-cultural understanding through activities such as international events, community service, and leadership roles.
Graduates of James Madison University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Communication Studies program have a wide range of career opportunities in various industries.
Public Relations Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as public relations specialists, working for public relations agencies, corporations, non-profit organizations, or government agencies. They develop communication strategies, manage media relations, and create content to enhance their clients' public image and reputation.
Media Planner/Buyer: Graduates may work as media planners or buyers, helping organizations plan and execute advertising campaigns across various media channels, including television, radio, print, and digital platforms. They analyze audience demographics, negotiate advertising rates, and monitor campaign performance to maximize advertising effectiveness.
Marketing Coordinator: Graduates can work as marketing coordinators, supporting marketing teams in developing and implementing marketing strategies, campaigns, and promotional activities. They conduct market research, coordinate marketing materials, and assist in digital marketing initiatives to reach target audiences and drive sales.
Corporate Communications Specialist: Graduates may pursue careers as corporate communications specialists, responsible for internal and external communications within organizations. They create employee communications, manage corporate newsletters, and develop messaging for corporate announcements, initiatives, and events to maintain positive relationships with stakeholders.
Social Media Manager: Graduates with expertise in social media can work as social media managers, overseeing organizations' social media presence and engagement strategies. They create content, manage social media platforms, monitor online conversations, and analyze social media metrics to enhance brand visibility and engagement.
Journalist/Reporter: Graduates interested in journalism can work as journalists or reporters for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or broadcast media outlets. They research and write news stories, conduct interviews, and cover events to inform and engage audiences on current events, issues, and trends.
Event Coordinator: Graduates may pursue careers as event coordinators, planning and executing events such as conferences, trade shows, fundraisers, or corporate events. They coordinate logistics, manage vendors, and oversee event promotion and communication to ensure successful and memorable events.
Content Creator/Writer: Graduates can work as content creators or writers, producing written or multimedia content for websites, blogs, newsletters, or marketing materials. They develop compelling narratives, engage audiences with storytelling, and craft messages that resonate with target audiences across various platforms.
