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Communication Arts - Communication Studies Track

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Undergraduate
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Learn Effective Communication with TROY'S Communication Arts Degree

Are you curious about how messages shape our world? Do you want to explore the cultural, political, economic, social and psychological dimensions of communication? At Troy University, the communication arts degree with an emphasis in communication studies is designed to help you understand and influence how messages are interpreted. TROY's program will also give you the tools to communicate clearly, think critically and build other skills needed for success in communication careers in fields such as public relations, marketing, media or corporate communication.

A TROY communication arts major with a red top speaks at a conference while standing at a metal podium.
“As a 2X graduate of Troy University's communication studies undergraduate program and strategic communication graduate program, I can say with full confidence that my educational background set the foundation for my professional success. Since graduating, I've climbed the ranks in highly respected organizations in the media, private and government sectors, making well above average compensation due to my comprehensive education at Troy. The Communication Studies program at Troy provided me with in-depth knowledge, real-world application, experience and connections that postured me for excellence and success in my professional journey.”
Mikala McCurry | Senior Public Affairs Specialist, Alabama Securities Commission | 2018 graduate, B.S. in communication studies | 2019 graduate, M.S. in strategic communication

Combining Humanities, Social Science and Communication

As a communication arts major with an emphasis in communication studies, you'll build both humanistic and social scientific skills to explore how people create and share meaning. You'll deepen your writing, research, presentation and analytical abilities, all of which are essential for your future career success. You'll also learn to create ethical, effective messages using traditional and emerging media. And, you'll discover your unique communication strengths, identify areas for improvement and gain the tools you need to grow into a skilled communicator along the way.

Experience Hands-On Communication Internships

As you study communication, you'll conduct field research by observing real-world groups in action. While learning about history and propaganda techniques, you'll create case studies to present to your classmates. Beyond the classroom, you'll have amazing opportunities to study abroad and complete communication internships. These hands-on experiences give you the chance to apply your communication skills in real-world settings, grow your professional network and enhance your resume so you have a competitive edge for communication studies careers.
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Communication Studies Degree Curriculum

While specific courses may vary from year to year, your coursework may include
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Communication Arts Program Locations

Get the flexibility you need by taking courses online, in class or through a blend of both. For more information about program availability and delivery options, call 1-800-414-5756

Troy Campus
TROY Online

Led by Experts in the Communications Field

As a communication arts major at TROY, you'll learn from experienced faculty who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. Professors in the Hall School of Journalism and Communication have backgrounds in media, public relations, broadcasting, and research. Many faculty members have worked as journalists, media consultants or communication strategists, allowing them to share practical insights and industry trends. Their commitment to mentorship ensures you'll gain hands-on experience, personalized guidance and valuable connections to prepare for success in media and communication jobs.
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Media and Communication Jobs with the TROY Communication Studies Degree

With a TROY communication arts degree focused on communication studies, you'll gain the skills to succeed in a broad range of communication careers or to pursue advanced degrees in communication, media studies or related fields. You'll develop critical thinking, research and presentation abilities that are valued in roles across all industries.

Faculty Profiles

Dr. Stefanie Hicks East

Dr. Stefanie Hicks East

Dr. Stefanie Hicks East is an assistant professor in the Hall School of Journalism and Communication. She earned both her B.S. in Broadcast Journalism and M.S. in Strategic Communication from Troy University and received her Ph.D in Communication from Regent University. Dr. East worked in the media industry for nearly 20 years, most recently as the evening news anchor at Alabama News Network, the CBS and ABC affiliates for central, west and south Alabama.
Learn more about our faculty 334-670-3259 seast@troy.edu
Dr. Ava Tabb

Dr. Ava Tabb

Dr. Ava Tabb, a lecturer in the Hall School of Journalism and Communication, received her B.A. from the University of Alabama, her M.S. from Northwestern University, and her Ph.D. in Instructional Design from Auburn University. Her primary teaching interests are multimedia journalism, digital photography and advertising. Dr. Tabb's professional experience includes working as a general assignment at the Andalusia Star daily newspaper and as a writer for the Birmingham Business Journal.
334-670-3047 amtabb@troy.edu
Dr. Amanda Diggs

Dr. Amanda Diggs

Dr. Amanda Diggs is an associate professor of communication and she serves as the Hall School's Coordinator of Assessment. She earned her B.S. in Broadcast Journalism and Social Science from Troy University, her M.A. in Communication from Auburn University and her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences majoring in Pharmacy Care Systems with Communication and Socio-Behavioral emphases from Auburn University. Dr. Diggs' teaching interests are communication studies, health communication, strategic communication and cultural communication.
Learn more about our faculty 334-670-5782 amdiggs@troy.edu
Dr. Shari Hoppin

Dr. Shari Hoppin

Dr. Shari Hoppin, an associate professor in the Hall School of Journalism and Communication, earned a B.A. from the University of Ottawa, Canada, and M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Southern California. Dr. Hoppin is the author of The Dark Side of Persuasion. She is a member of the University's graduate faculty and teaches in the Master of Science in Strategic Communication degree program in addition to teaching undergraduate courses.
Learn more about our faculty 334-670-3321 shoppin@troy.edu

Communication Studies Track

When you pursue TROY's communication arts degree with a communication studies emphasis, you'll take courses like Interpersonal Communication, Propaganda and Persuasion and International/Intercultural Communication to build communication skills. Your classes, along with communication internships, will prepare you for success in public relations, media and communication jobs, and to further your education in graduate school.

Communication Arts Scholarships

Support for Your TROY Communication Studies Degree

As a communication arts major, you can apply for scholarships that help you stay focused on building your skills and launching your career. The Claude and Diana Kay Ward Endowed Scholarship is awarded to communication majors on the Troy Campus, with preference given to females from Elmore County. The Kensington Digital Media Scholarship gives you funding plus hands-on experience through an internship at Wiregrass Radio. If you're interested in radio or television, the Alabama Broadcasters Association Endowed Scholarship offers added support for upper-level students on the Troy Campus.

Related Programs

Multimedia JournalismEnglishBroadcast JournalismMaster of Science in Strategic Communication

FAQ About the Communication Degree Program

Learn more about the field of communication and our program.
Can I earn a communication degree online?
Absolutely! TROY offers a flexible communication degree online option, allowing you to complete your studies from anywhere. This is perfect for students balancing work, family or other responsibilities.
Does TROY offer opportunities for communication internships?

Yes, TROY offers exceptional communication internships that allow you to gain real-world experience while earning your communication studies degree. Internships are available locally and nationally with media outlets, businesses and organizations, thanks to TROY's deep connections in the field.

What can I do with a communication arts degree?
A communication studies degree prepares you for communication studies careers such as public relations specialist, social media manager, corporate trainer, event coordinator or marketing professional. These roles and many others rely on strong communication skills, strategic thinking and expertise in writing, research and presentation, equipping you to pursue leadership opportunities across industries.
How does a degree in communication prepare me for media and communication jobs?
A Bachelor of Science degree in communication prepares you for diverse media and communication jobs, including roles such as content strategist, communication director, content creator, media planner or advertising executive. By focusing on message creation, audience analysis and media strategies, this degree equips you with the creativity, analytical skills and strategic thinking needed to shape public perception and succeed in fast-paced media careers and other jobs where communication expertise is essential.

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News

Hall School students participated in Journalism Career Fair, bringing career-specific recruiters to campus.

Career-specific job fair brings media outlets in direct contact with Hall School of Journalism and Communication students

Hall School of Journalism and Communication students got the opportunity to network, meet with employers and pursue job or internship opportunities at Thursday's journalism career fair.

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