M.S. in Biology
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Biology at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse ...
B.A. in Communication Studies
La Crosse, Wisconsin
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The B.A. in Communication Studies at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of communication processes and practices, preparing them for a wide range of careers in media, public relations, business, and more. This program emphasizes the development of strong communication skills, both written and verbal, while providing students with the theoretical foundation needed to understand the role of communication in society. Graduates of the program are prepared to excel in roles that require effective interpersonal, organizational, and strategic communication skills.
Curriculum: The B.A. in Communication Studies curriculum at UW-La Crosse is diverse and flexible, offering students the opportunity to tailor their education according to their interests and career goals. Core courses cover topics in interpersonal communication, organizational communication, communication theory, and research methods. Students can further specialize in areas such as media studies, public relations, and digital communication through elective courses. The program integrates both theoretical learning and practical application, with opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, group projects, and media production work. This ensures that students are well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue further academic study.
Research Focus: The B.A. in Communication Studies program encourages students to engage in research that explores various aspects of communication, including media influence, communication ethics, interpersonal dynamics, and public discourse. Students are trained in qualitative and quantitative research methods, allowing them to conduct their own studies and contribute to the academic field. Faculty members are actively involved in research related to communication in areas such as health communication, social media, organizational behavior, and communication technologies. Students are encouraged to collaborate with faculty on research projects, giving them valuable experience in conducting scholarly work and presenting their findings.
Industry Engagement: UW-La Crosse fosters strong industry engagement through internships, collaborative projects, and partnerships with local businesses and organizations. The B.A. in Communication Studies program has connections with media outlets, public relations firms, non-profits, and corporations, providing students with real-world experience and networking opportunities. Students can participate in internships that allow them to apply their classroom learning to professional environments, enhancing their job readiness and building industry connections that are crucial for launching successful careers. These industry experiences also enable students to develop practical communication skills that are essential in today’s competitive job market.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Communication Studies program at UW-La Crosse incorporates a global perspective by examining communication processes in a variety of cultural contexts. The program helps students understand how communication varies across different societies, cultures, and languages, and the impact of globalization on communication practices. Students have the opportunity to engage in study abroad programs, allowing them to experience communication in different cultural settings and broaden their understanding of global communication trends. This international exposure enriches their academic experience and prepares them to work in increasingly diverse and interconnected global environments.
Location
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 18825
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $25
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 73 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 54 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
The University of Wisconsin–La Crosse is dedicated to promoting diversity and fostering an inclusive campus community. Through a range of scholarships for international students, UWL aims to make higher education accessible and provide financial support to those who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and cultural diversity.
Global Cultures Scholarship: UWL offers the Global Cultures Scholarship to international students who demonstrate promoting cultural diversity and understanding. This merit-based award recognizes students who actively contribute to the international community on campus.
International Education & Engagement (IEE) Tuition Scholarship: The IEE Tuition Scholarship is designed to support international students who have excelled academically. It provides financial assistance to help cover tuition costs, making quality education more accessible to students from around the world.
International Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements. The International Excellence Scholarship reflects UWL's attracting and supporting high-achieving students from diverse backgrounds.
INTO UWL Scholarship Programs: INTO UWL, a program designed to assist international students with their academic and cultural transition, offers several scholarship opportunities. These scholarships may cover a portion of tuition costs and are aimed at encouraging students to pursue their academic goals at UWL.
Athletic Scholarships: UWL provides opportunities for international students with exceptional athletic abilities through its athletic scholarship programs. These scholarships are available for various sports and can contribute to tuition, fees, and other related expenses.
Cultural Diversity Scholarship: UWL values diversity and encourages students from different cultural backgrounds to apply for the Cultural Diversity Scholarship. This award recognizes the unique perspectives and contributions that international students bring to the university community.
Graduates of the B.A. in Communication Studies program at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse have a broad range of career options due to their versatile communication skills and comprehensive understanding of communication practices. These skills are highly sought after across various industries, including media, public relations, business, healthcare, education, and more.
Public Relations Specialist: Graduates can work as public relations specialists, managing the image and reputation of organizations, individuals, or brands. They are responsible for creating press releases, handling media relations, and planning communication strategies to promote positive public perception. Public relations specialists work in corporate environments, non-profits, government agencies, and media firms.
Corporate Communications Manager: In this role, graduates oversee internal and external communication strategies for a company. They manage messaging to employees, shareholders, and the public, ensuring that corporate messages align with organizational values and goals. Corporate communications managers are key to maintaining a positive corporate image and managing crisis communication when necessary.
Social Media Manager: Graduates can specialize in social media management, where they oversee an organization's social media presence. They develop content, engage with audiences, and analyze social media campaigns to increase brand visibility and engagement. Social media managers are critical in the digital marketing space, particularly for businesses aiming to build a strong online presence.
Marketing Communications Specialist: A career as a marketing communications specialist involves developing communication strategies that support marketing campaigns. These professionals work with product teams to create promotional content, advertisements, newsletters, and social media posts. They play a key role in ensuring that marketing messages resonate with target audiences.
Journalist/Reporter: Many Communication Studies graduates enter the field of journalism as reporters, writers, or editors for newspapers, magazines, television, or digital platforms. Journalists research, investigate, and write stories on a variety of topics, and often specialize in specific areas such as politics, sports, or entertainment.
Media Planner/Buyer: Media planners and buyers work with advertising agencies or marketing teams to plan, purchase, and place advertisements across various media channels, such as TV, radio, digital, or print. They are responsible for determining the most effective media channels for a target audience and ensuring the best possible exposure for marketing campaigns.
Event Coordinator/Manager: Event coordinators plan and execute events such as conferences, meetings, trade shows, and corporate functions. They manage logistics, coordinate with vendors, and ensure that events are successful and meet their objectives. Communication skills are critical in managing event communications and interacting with clients, participants, and vendors.
Human Resources (HR) Specialist: Graduates can work in human resources, handling communication within organizations, including recruitment, training, and employee relations. HR specialists play a vital role in fostering a positive organizational culture, addressing employee concerns, and communicating policies and procedures effectively.
Healthcare Communication Specialist: With an increasing focus on healthcare communication, graduates can work as communication specialists in hospitals, health organizations, or public health agencies. They help craft clear messaging for patients, healthcare providers, and the public, ensuring that important health information is conveyed effectively and accurately.
Advertising Account Manager: Graduates can pursue careers as account managers in advertising agencies, where they work with clients to develop and execute advertising campaigns. They communicate the client’s needs to creative teams, manage project timelines, and ensure campaigns are completed on time and within budget.
Speechwriter: Graduates with strong writing skills may work as speechwriters, crafting speeches for politicians, corporate executives, or public figures. This role requires an understanding of rhetorical techniques and the ability to convey ideas clearly and persuasively in public speaking formats.
Nonprofit Communications Specialist: In nonprofit organizations, communication specialists play a key role in raising awareness, building relationships with stakeholders, and fundraising. Graduates may be involved in creating content for newsletters, donor communications, and social media, helping to advance the organization's mission and goals.
Education and Training Coordinator: Graduates may also pursue careers in education or training, where they create and deliver communication-focused training programs for companies or educational institutions. This role can involve teaching communication skills to employees, students, or clients, ensuring that they are equipped to communicate effectively in professional settings.
Communication Consultant: Some graduates may choose to work as independent communication consultants, advising organizations on how to improve their communication strategies, internal communication processes, and messaging. Consultants often help businesses enhance their communication effectiveness, public image, and crisis management strategies.
