Communication Studies Concentration
Program Description
The Communication Studies Concentration within the Associate in Science in Media, Communication, and Design is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in communication, media studies, public relations, journalism, or a related field.
This concentration focuses on how individuals and organizations communicate ideas across interpersonal, organizational, and media environments. Students explore topics such as public speaking, media literacy, interpersonal communication, and the role of communication in shaping public discourse. Coursework emphasizes critical thinking, persuasive communication, research, and the analysis of communication strategies in professional and social contexts.
The program provides a strong academic foundation for students interested in careers that require effective communication, media awareness, and strategic messaging.
Transfer Information
The Communication Studies concentration is structured to align with bachelor’s degree programs in communication, media studies, journalism, public relations, and related disciplines.
Students are encouraged to work closely with faculty and Advising & Transfer Services to ensure coursework aligns with the requirements of their intended transfer institution. Students planning to transfer within New Jersey should explore the “Transfer Programs” feature on NJ Transfer (www.njtransfer.org) to review articulation agreements and institutional requirements.
Early academic planning is recommended, particularly for students interested in communication-focused careers that require strong writing, presentation, and media analysis skills.
Career Information
The A.S. in Media, Communication, and Design – Communication Studies Concentration is designed primarily for transfer. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for professional roles in communication and media-related fields.
With further education, graduates may pursue careers such as:
- Public Relations Specialist
- Communications Coordinator
- Journalist or Media Writer
- Social Media Manager
- Corporate Communications Professional
- Marketing or Media Strategist
Students are encouraged to consult with faculty and Career Services early in their academic journey to explore transfer pathways, internships, and career opportunities in communication and media industries.
| First Semester | Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| ENGL 151 | English I | 3 |
| STSC 150 | Student Success Seminar | 2 |
| COMM 151 | Media Writing I | 3 |
| COMM 154 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | 3 |
| Mathematics Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 14 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| ENGL 152 | English II | 3 |
| COMM 110 | Introduction to Communications | 3 |
| COMM 281 | Mass Communications | 3 |
| Humanities Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Lab Science Gen. Ed. Requirement | 4 | |
| Credit Hours | 16 | |
| Third Semester | ||
| Diversity Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Intercultural Communication (Recommended) | ||
| COMM 172 | Communication Law | 3 |
| COMM 140 or COMM 242 | 3 | |
| Mathematics Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Social Science Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Fourth Semester | ||
| COMM 285 | 3 | |
| Social Science Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Race and Ethnicity (Recommended) | ||
| History Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Humanities Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Technology Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 60 | |