As a communication major, you gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles that guide communication in a fast-paced, ever-changing world. The program promotes the technical, creative, and critical-thinking skills necessary to become a professional in the field as well as an engaged citizen.

Concentration Areas

You have the flexibility to select the area of focus that's the best fit for your career aspirations.

Communication Studies

Examine the theories and practices of human communication from perspectives of rhetoric and social science. This concentration prepares students for careers in management, consulting, research, as well as graduate or professional school.

Journalism

Learn how to analyze, interpret, and critique civic issues by writing and producing content for the new convergent media environment. Here you can gain experience in the areas of newspaper, online, magazine, radio, television, and more.

Public Communication

Discover the formation of public opinion and build practical skills while preparing for careers in public policy, politics, public relations, advertising, integrated and social marketing, non-profit activism, and other areas of social influence.

Career Paths

With a communication degree from Truman, you'll be ready to take on a variety of jobs as a journalist, writer, editor, and numerous other career options as well as graduate school or law school.

Featured Courses

Develop an understanding of the fundamental principles and processes of human communication.
Explore the crucial roles that media play in modern society, with emphasis on theoretical perspectives and ethical clarification.
Study the major developments and status of modern theories in communication with a focus on social/behavioral theories that inform our understanding of communication between and among individuals and the media.
Survey the nature, processes, and consequences of communication between individuals and groups from different cultures and subcultures; learn to recognize and evaluate the behavioral, communicative, political, and ethical consequences in such interactions.
Examine the ever-changing uses of social media and their effects on their audiences and on the process of human communication.
Learn about the social and psychological variables that influence values, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.
Explore the fundamentals of information gathering and writing used by newspapers, television, radio, and online reporters, and public relations practitioners..

Experiences and Opportunities

Practical Experience

At Truman, you can explore the many fields of communication through student media or other communication organizations. From writing for a travel magazine to covering a beat for the student newspaper or anchoring newscasts on a weekly TV show; from radio announcing, talk shows, and sports to writing a column for the Truman Media Network (TMN), new experiences await you.

Meaningful Outcomes

Alumni of Truman's communication program value the breadth of experience and knowledge they obtain. Learn how graduates apply the versatility of this discipline to a variety of different career realms.

Our Facilities

Housed in Barnett Hall, the Communication Department has facilities and equipment that allow communication students to run a radio station, TV studio, newspaper, and travel magazine. You can get involved starting your first year.