Communication

The Communication program combines the liberal arts philosophy of Ottawa University with knowledge within the discipline of communication to help students perform effectively in a wide range of personal, professional and educational settings. It promotes analysis, synthesis and evaluation of communication theory such as interpersonal, small group, organizational, intercultural, and mediated communication (e.g. journalism, advertising, radio, film, and web media). Students in this major develop critical-thinking skills and an awareness of cultural and social diversity; students develop their communication abilities and learn processes to achieve desired outcomes in a variety of settings and audiences. As part of the major, students will develop a philosophy for ethical, moral and lawful treatment of communication stakeholders. Students may engage in a dynamic range of academic specializations and/or practical activities that support the major. At the College, eight concentrations are offered in mass media, strategic communication and the communication arts. Extracrurricular and cocurricular organizations and honor societies provide opportunities for student development including intercollegiate speech and debate, journalism competition, newspaper, broadcasting, advertising & sales, film & video, web media, disaster communication, pre-law preparation, and professional internships. Non-traditional students at Ottawa’s adult campuses are encouraged to apply their knowledge and skills toward analyzing and improving communication in the organizations where they work. The major prepares students for graduate study and/or such careers as public relations, sales, radio, television, film, journalism, photography, publishing, advertising, consulting, arts communication, government, business and law.