Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience
Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science program in ...
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies (Co-op)
Waterloo
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies (Co-op) at Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) offers students a comprehensive understanding of communication theories, practices, and technologies in contemporary society. This program explores various forms of communication, including interpersonal, organizational, mass media, and digital communication, preparing students for careers in fields such as media, public relations, marketing, and more.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies (Co-op) at WLU is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in communication theory, research methods, and practical skills. Courses cover a wide range of topics, including communication ethics, media analysis, digital media production, strategic communication, and interpersonal communication. Students have the opportunity to develop their critical thinking, writing, and presentation skills through hands-on projects, case studies, and co-operative education placements.
Research Focus: Wilfrid Laurier University is committed to fostering a culture of research excellence in the field of Communication Studies. Faculty members are actively engaged in research projects that explore various aspects of communication, including media effects, audience reception, political communication, health communication, and digital media culture. Students have the opportunity to participate in research initiatives, working alongside faculty mentors to develop research skills, conduct empirical studies, and contribute to scholarly conversations in the field.
Industry Engagement: WLU recognizes the importance of industry engagement in preparing students for successful careers in fields related to Communication Studies. Through its co-operative education program, students have the opportunity to gain practical work experience in a variety of professional settings, including media organizations, public relations firms, advertising agencies, corporate communications departments, and digital marketing companies. Co-op placements provide students with valuable hands-on experience, professional networking opportunities, and exposure to diverse career paths in the field of communication.
Global Perspective: The Bachelor of Arts program in Communication Studies (Co-op) at Wilfrid Laurier University emphasizes a global perspective, examining communication practices and technologies within a broader international context. Courses incorporate cross-cultural comparisons, exploring how communication shapes and is shaped by cultural norms, values, and identities around the world. The program also encourages students to critically analyze global issues such as media globalization, digital divide, and cultural imperialism, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of communication in a globalized society.
Location
Waterloo
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 32251
Application fee: CAD$ 80 + Applying through OUAC 105F Portal charges CAD$ 156 + International Charges CAD$ 10
Academic Requirements: International undergraduate applicants are typically required to have a minimum academic average of 70% or its equivalent in their secondary school studies.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 83 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- PTE: A minimum score of 59 on the Pearson Test of English.
- DET: A minimum score of 120 on the Duolingo English Test.
Wilfrid Laurier University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
International Student Entrance Scholarships: Wilfrid Laurier University offers several entrance scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and are available for both undergraduate and graduate students. The value of these scholarships varies, with some covering a significant portion of tuition fees.
President's Gold Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional incoming international undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and community involvement. Recipients of this scholarship receive a renewable award that covers a significant portion of their tuition fees.
International Student Scholarship: The International Student Scholarship is awarded to international undergraduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence and are entering their first year of study at Wilfrid Laurier University. The scholarship amount varies based on the student's academic achievements.
In-Course Scholarships: Wilfrid Laurier University also offers in-course scholarships for international students who have completed at least one year of study at the university. These scholarships are based on academic performance and may be awarded to students who have achieved a certain GPA or have excelled in specific areas of study.
Faculty-specific Scholarships: Some faculties and departments within Wilfrid Laurier University may offer scholarships and awards specific to their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be available to international students based on academic performance, leadership, or other criteria determined by the faculty or department.
External Scholarships and Partnerships: In addition to the university-specific scholarships, international students at Wilfrid Laurier University can also explore external scholarships and funding opportunities. The university has partnerships with various organizations and agencies that offer scholarships to international students, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
It is important to note that scholarship eligibility and application processes may vary, and some scholarships may have specific requirements or deadlines.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies (Co-op) from Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) opens up a plethora of career opportunities in diverse industries.
Media Relations Specialist: Graduates can work as media relations specialists, serving as the liaison between organizations and the media. They may work for corporations, non-profit organizations, or government agencies, drafting press releases, organizing press conferences, and managing media inquiries to shape public perception and maintain positive media relations.
Public Relations Manager: With their expertise in communication strategy and messaging, graduates can pursue careers as public relations managers, overseeing communication efforts to promote and protect the reputation of organizations. They may work for PR agencies, corporations, or government departments, developing PR campaigns, managing crisis communication, and building relationships with key stakeholders.
Digital Marketing Specialist: Graduates can work as digital marketing specialists, leveraging their knowledge of digital media and consumer behavior to create and implement digital marketing strategies. They may work for advertising agencies, e-commerce companies, or digital marketing firms, managing social media campaigns, optimizing website content, and analyzing digital analytics to drive engagement and conversions.
Social Media Manager: With their understanding of social media platforms and trends, graduates can work as social media managers, managing and curating content for brands and organizations across various social media channels. They may work for companies, agencies, or start-ups, developing social media strategies, creating engaging content, and fostering community engagement to build brand awareness and loyalty.
Market Research Analyst: Graduates can work as market research analysts, collecting and analyzing data to understand consumer behavior and market trends. They may work for market research firms, consulting companies, or corporations, conducting surveys, analyzing data, and providing insights to inform product development, marketing strategies, and business decisions.
Corporate Communication Specialist: Graduates can work as corporate communication specialists, managing internal and external communication for organizations. They may work for corporations, non-profit organizations, or government agencies, developing communication plans, writing internal newsletters, and coordinating employee communication to ensure consistency and alignment with organizational goals.
Event Planner/Coordinator: With their organizational skills and attention to detail, graduates can work as event planners or coordinators, organizing and managing events such as conferences, trade shows, and product launches. They may work for event planning companies, hotels, or corporations, coordinating logistics, managing budgets, and ensuring the smooth execution of events to meet client objectives.
