University of New England

Communication

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Communication

College: College of Arts and Sciences

Department: Department of Business and Communications

Contact: Dr. James Breyley (Chair) jbreyley@une.edu

The mission of the Department of Business and Communications is to provide competent, supportive faculty and to offer relevant curricula that will help prepare students to cope with and thrive in an ever-changing world. More specifically, the department strives:

• to prepare students for ethically and socially responsible roles in business, the communications professions and society;
• to develop in students the ability to recognize, analyze, and solve problems;
• to help students achieve their personal and career goals; and
• to prepare students for entry-level positions in either the private or public sector and/or to prepare students for coursework at the graduate level.

The bachelor of arts degree in communications emphasizes communication skills and practices and provides a balanced mix of communications, journalism, public relations, and information technology/new media courses. Its goals are:

• to provide students with an understanding of the history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications.
• to facilitate an understanding of the diversity of groups in a global society in relationship to communications.
• to facilitate an understanding of professional ethical principles necessary in the communications professions and teach students to think critically, creatively and independently.
• to assist students in the acquisition of skills that stress appropriate communication practices and a clear understanding of how to evaluate their own work for accuracy, fairness and clarity.
• to provide students with hands on experience with the  tools and latest technologies used in the communications professions in which they will work.

Curricular Requirements

Program Standards

Department of Business and Communications majors and minors must earn at least a C- in all Department courses.  

Minor in Communications
The Minor in Communications examines questions about society, business and communication practices with critical attention to the newest media and computer-related technologies. Students will explore communications theory and also learn how to communicate effectively using a full range of media channels including new media technology. Upon completion of the minor students will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the history and evolution of communication and the role of societies and institutions in shaping communications;
• Articulate and apply the theories and best practices for the use and presentation of images and digital information including audio and video;
• Apply tools and technologies used in the communications professions.

Notice and Responsibilities Regarding this Catalog

This Catalog documents the academic programs, policies, and activities of the University of New England for the 2008-2009 academic year. The information contained herein is accurate as of date of publication August 1, 2008.

The University of New England reserves the right in its sole judgment to make changes of any nature in its programs, calendar, or academic schedule whenever it is deemed necessary or desirable, including changes in course content, the rescheduling of classes with or without extending the academic term, canceling of scheduled classes or other academic activities, in any such case giving such notice thereof as is reasonably practicable under the circumstances.

While each student may work closely with an academic advisor, he or she must retain individual responsibility for meeting requirements in this catalog and for being aware of any changes in provisions or requirements.