Close-up shot of Blackburn student working on her laptop. Another student can be seen partially off the shot.

Major, Minor

Communications Apply For Free

Communications students engage with critical perspectives on the history and practice of mass communication and media. Majors develop a comprehensive understanding of the theory and skills necessary for a variety of career paths while becoming proficient in media and information literacy—crucial for citizenship in today’s society.

When you complete a communications major at Blackburn you will have acquired the knowledge, understanding and skills to become a valued asset in non-profit organizations, corporations, and beyond. The ability to communicate is one of the most highly sought skills by employers. The 2018 National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) survey of 201 employers found that the knowledge and skills taught in communication courses are essential to being hired.

Production-based courses including photography, video production, graphic design, production and publication, all have hands-on learning components. In addition, the required media and information literacy class is ‘flipped’ and highly interactive, as is the skills-based public speaking course. The required senior seminar project may include a production component, such as a video, webpage, etc. Optional communications-related internships are another opportunity for experiential learning.

We recently added a sports communication minor and there are plans to continue to enhance the skills-based production aspects of the program, including a new advanced video production course. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment of media and communication occupations is projected to grow 6 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations, which will result in about 43,200 new jobs. Demand for media and communication occupations is expected to arise from the need to create, edit, translate, and disseminate information through a variety of different platforms.”

We have an audio-visual production studio which includes a podcasting station, video cameras, studio lights, video editing station, and a green screen. The internet radio station is located in Bothwell.

Programs Include:

  • Communications Major/Minor
  • Sports Communications Minor


Work Program Connections

Blackburn connects your classroom knowledge with career-specific skills, insight, experiences, and connections — everything you need for a successful career launch. In the Work Program, Communications students have an opportunity to:

  • Grow and gain experience in the workforce
  • Work in positions that support their area of academic interest
  • Be a contributing member of the community
Work Program