M.S. in Computer Information Systems
The M.S. in Computer Information Systems at NEC is a 36-credit program that can typical...
B.A. in Communication Studies
Henniker, New Hampshire
INTAKE: Jan, Aug & Oct
Program Overview
The B.A. in Communication Studies at New England College is a 120-credit program that offers critical and historical perspectives on media and communication, alongside practical, hands-on training. It aims to develop strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, highly sought after by employers. The program focuses on understanding various communication channels and how to utilize them effectively for success. Students gain relevant experience through involvement in the student-run newspaper and website, The NewEnglander, and the college radio station, WNEC-FM, practicing design, editing, photo, public relations, social media, writing, and broadcasting skills. The program is offered in on-campus, online, and hybrid formats, providing flexibility for students.
Curriculum: The 120-credit B.A. in Communication Studies curriculum at NEC is structured with a core set of communication courses, liberal arts and sciences requirements, and electives. The communication core typically includes courses such as "CO 1010 - Introduction to Communication Studies," "CO 2010 - Speaking with Purpose," "CO 3250 - Media Literacy," "CO 3410 - Freedom of Speech," and "CO 4430 - Senior Seminar." Practical experience is integrated through requirements like "CO 2250 - WNEC-FM" (radio broadcasting) and "CO 4750 - Practicum in The NewEnglander" (college newspaper). Electives allow students to explore areas like social media, writing for journalism and public relations, website design, and video production. The liberal arts and sciences core ensures a broad education, covering areas like composition, quantitative reasoning, and studies of the natural and civic environments.
Research Focus: The B.A. in Communication Studies at New England College primarily has an applied and practical focus. The program emphasizes developing students' ability to "interrogate the nature of communication in society" and to apply communication theories and strategies to real-world contexts. While it does not typically involve students conducting extensive, independent academic research for a thesis, the curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and analytical skills. Students learn to interpret messages, analyze different communication channels, and understand ethical reasoning across various communication contexts. Courses may involve analyzing media practices, historical communication trends, and contemporary social issues related to communication. The hands-on experience in media production and journalism also provides practical "research" into effective communication strategies.
Industry Engagement: New England College's B.A. in Communication Studies demonstrates strong industry engagement through its practical, experiential learning opportunities. Students can gain "relevant experience" by contributing to The NewEnglander (college newspaper and website) and WNEC-FM (college radio station), where they practice skills directly applicable to media and communication professions. The program also encourages students to promote events and engage in public relations work for hypothetical or real small businesses and non-profits, and many secure internships with various organizations. Faculty members, who often have professional backgrounds, integrate "real-world expertise" into the classroom. This focus on hands-on application and practical skill development directly prepares graduates for entry into communication-based industries.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Communication Studies at New England College implicitly incorporates a global perspective by focusing on how communication operates within a "complex and changing society," which is increasingly globalized. While there isn't a specific standalone course titled "Global Communication" directly in the core curriculum mentioned, the broader study of communication theory and practice inherently involves understanding diverse cultural contexts, international media landscapes, and global communication flows. Courses on media literacy, freedom of speech, and the role of communication in various social and political institutions often touch upon international dimensions. The program's aim to prepare students to "effectively communicate and interact in a variety of professional environments and cultural contexts" indicates an awareness of the global nature of communication in today's world.
Location
Henniker, New Hampshire
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 40178
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
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 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 65 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
New England College (NEC) is supporting talented international students by offering a range of merit-based scholarships designed to make quality education more accessible and affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and other achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of studying in the United States.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international applicants to NEC are automatically considered for merit scholarships during the admission process. Awards vary based on the student’s academic record, test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities.
Presidential Scholarship: One of the most prestigious awards, the Presidential Scholarship, is granted to exceptional international students with outstanding academic credentials.
Athletic Scholarships: NEC offers athletic scholarships to international students who demonstrate exceptional skill and commitment in NCAA Division III sports. These scholarships are awarded based on athletic performance, team needs, and coach recommendations, providing support while balancing academics and athletics.
Specialized Program Scholarships: Certain academic departments at NEC may offer scholarships targeting high-achieving students pursuing degrees in fields such as Business, Cybersecurity, Education, Creative Writing, and Health Sciences. These targeted awards help attract top talent and support focused areas of study.
Graduates of New England College's B.A. in Communication Studies are equipped with highly transferable skills that are essential in virtually every industry.
Public Relations Specialist: Manages the public image and communication strategies for individuals, organizations, or companies, drafting press releases, coordinating media interviews, and handling crisis communication.
Journalist/Reporter: Gathers information, conducts interviews, and writes news stories for various media outlets, including newspapers, magazines, websites, or broadcast channels.
Social Media Manager: Develops and implements social media strategies for brands or organizations, creating content, engaging with online communities, and analyzing social media performance.
Content Creator/Copywriter: Produces engaging written and visual content for websites, blogs, marketing materials, advertising campaigns, and social media, ensuring consistent brand voice and messaging.
Marketing Coordinator/Specialist: Supports marketing campaigns, conducts market research, manages promotional activities, and helps implement communication strategies to reach target audiences.
Event Planner/Coordinator: Organizes and manages various events, conferences, or campaigns, handling logistics, communications with stakeholders, and public outreach.
Human Resources Specialist: Utilizes strong interpersonal and organizational communication skills to manage employee relations, internal communications, recruitment, and training within an organization.
Digital Media Producer: Creates and edits digital content, including video, audio, and multimedia presentations, for online platforms, often involving technical skills in production software.
Communications Specialist/Coordinator: Develops and executes internal and external communication strategies for corporations or non-profits, writing newsletters, managing websites, and ensuring consistent organizational messaging.
Broadcaster/Radio Personality: Works in radio or television, presenting news, hosting shows, or providing commentary, requiring strong oral communication, improvisation, and performance skills.
