B.A. in Communication

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Communication program at the University of New Mexico (UNM) provides students with a comprehensive understanding of communication theory, research, and practice. UNM's Communication program offers students the opportunity to explore various aspects of communication, including interpersonal communication, organizational communication, media studies, and strategic communication, preparing them for careers in diverse fields such as media, public relations, marketing, and corporate communication.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.A. in Communication at UNM is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in communication theory, research methods, and practical skills. Courses cover topics such as communication theory, public speaking, media literacy, digital communication, and communication ethics. Students also have the opportunity to take elective courses in specialized areas such as interpersonal communication, intercultural communication, journalism, advertising, and public relations. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, written and verbal communication skills, and media literacy, preparing students to analyze communication phenomena and communicate effectively in various contexts.

Research Focus: UNM's Communication program emphasizes research as a central component of the educational experience. Students have opportunities to engage in research projects, independent studies, and honors theses under the guidance of faculty mentors. Research areas may include media effects, communication technology, persuasion, intercultural communication, and health communication. Students gain experience with research methods such as surveys, experiments, content analysis, and qualitative inquiry, developing research skills that prepare them for graduate study or careers in communication research, media analysis, and market research.

Industry Engagement: UNM fosters connections with media organizations, advertising agencies, public relations firms, and corporate communication departments, providing students with opportunities for internships, experiential learning, and professional development. Industry engagement initiatives in the Communication program often include internships at media outlets, marketing firms, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies, where students gain practical experience in journalism, social media management, event planning, and strategic communication. Students also have the opportunity to participate in networking events, career fairs, and workshops that connect them with professionals in the field and help them explore career opportunities in communication-related industries.

Global Perspective: In an increasingly interconnected and globalized world, UNM's Communication program emphasizes the importance of a global perspective in understanding communication processes and cultural dynamics. The curriculum includes coursework that explores intercultural communication, global media systems, and communication ethics from a global perspective. Additionally, students have opportunities to participate in study abroad programs, international research collaborations, and multicultural communication projects that expose them to different cultural contexts and perspectives. These experiences foster cross-cultural understanding, intercultural competence, and awareness of global communication issues, preparing students for careers in global media, international communication, and cross-cultural communication consulting.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fees: US$ 50

Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.

English Language Proficiency

• IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual band score below 5.5.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 68 is often required.
• PTE :  A minimum overall score of 47 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.

Scholarships for International Students at the University of New Mexico:

Global Education Office Scholarships: UNM's Global Education Office (GEO) offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are merit-based and can be awarded to both undergraduate and graduate students. They may cover tuition and fees, living expenses, or a combination of both.

International Amigo Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at fostering cultural exchange and friendship between international students and the local community. It provides financial assistance to international students while also encouraging them to engage in community service and cultural outreach activities.

Graduate Assistantships: UNM offers graduate assistantships to qualified international graduate students. These assistantships may involve teaching, research, or administrative duties. They often come with a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance benefits.

College or Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within UNM may have their own scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields of study. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, research interests, or other criteria relevant to the department.

Private and External Scholarships: UNM encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by international foundations, government agencies, and private organizations. The Global Education Office provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for such scholarships.

Fulbright Scholarships: UNM participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students, scholars, and professionals. The university assists eligible international applicants in the Fulbright application process.

Cultural and Country-Specific Scholarships: Some cultural or country-specific organizations and foundations offer scholarships to students from particular regions or countries. International students should research opportunities related to their background and nationality.

Merit-Based Scholarships: UNM awards merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs.

Research Scholarships: International graduate students in research-intensive programs may have the opportunity to receive research scholarships from faculty members conducting research projects. These scholarships often include a stipend and tuition support.

Diversity Scholarships: UNM is promoting diversity and inclusion. Some scholarships are awarded to international students who contribute to the university's diversity through their experiences, backgrounds, or interests.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary from year to year. Additionally, students are encouraged to meet academic and application requirements to enhance their chances of receiving scholarships.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Communication from the University of New Mexico (UNM) opens up a wide array of career opportunities in various sectors that rely on effective communication skills. 

Public Relations Specialist: B.A. in Communication graduates can pursue careers as public relations specialists, working to manage the public image and reputation of organizations, businesses, or individuals. Public relations specialists work in public relations firms, corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, developing communication strategies, writing press releases, organizing events, and cultivating relationships with media outlets and key stakeholders to promote positive public perception and manage crises effectively.

Media Planner/Buyer: Graduates may work as media planners or buyers, helping organizations and businesses plan and purchase advertising space in various media channels such as television, radio, print, and digital platforms. Media planners/buyers work in advertising agencies, media companies, and marketing departments, conducting market research, analyzing audience demographics, negotiating advertising rates, and developing media plans that reach target audiences effectively and achieve marketing objectives.

Corporate Communication Specialist: B.A. in Communication graduates can pursue careers as corporate communication specialists, responsible for internal and external communication within organizations. Corporate communication specialists work in corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, developing communication strategies, writing internal memos, newsletters, and reports, and managing communication channels such as intranets, social media, and employee communication platforms to facilitate effective communication among employees and stakeholders.

Marketing Coordinator: Graduates may work as marketing coordinators, supporting marketing campaigns and promotional activities for products, services, or brands. Marketing coordinators work in marketing departments, advertising agencies, and public relations firms, assisting with market research, content creation, social media management, and event planning to attract customers, increase brand awareness, and drive sales.

Digital Media Specialist: B.A. in Communication graduates can pursue careers as digital media specialists, focusing on creating and managing digital content for online platforms such as websites, social media, blogs, and multimedia presentations. Digital media specialists work in digital marketing agencies, media companies, and content creation studios, producing engaging and interactive content, optimizing content for search engines, and analyzing audience engagement metrics to inform content strategy and improve online visibility.

Journalist/Reporter: Graduates may work as journalists or reporters, gathering news, conducting interviews, and writing articles for newspapers, magazines, websites, or broadcast outlets. Journalists/reporters work in newsrooms, media organizations, and freelance capacities, covering local, national, or international events, investigating stories, and delivering accurate and timely news coverage to inform and educate the public on current events and issues.