BA in Communication
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication provides a rigorous introduction to the study of communication from both the social scientific and humanistic perspectives. Courses examine the theory behind interactions and relationships in many contexts, and some professors also incorporate networking opportunities with professionals in the field.
Communication is a critical factor in any individual’s or organization’s success. As a field of study, students explore the theories behind and approaches to effective communication. It is distinct from communications programs in other departments, which generally cover the methods and strategies behind implementing communication campaigns.
For questions about requirements, please contact the program director for the Communication Program.
What Can You Do with a Communication Major?
Visit the GW Career Services site to learn more about the paths our alumni have taken with a degree in communication.
"I loved the wide variety of courses available to explore. I learned about everything from high-profile marketing campaigns and sociology of families to crisis management and theories of online communications."
Rachael Paul
BA '17, Communication
Apply to the Major
Students are accepted as communication majors through a selective application process that commences only after the student is admitted to the University. Students must reside in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences in order to apply for a Communication major. Applications are not accepted from students with more than 75 credit hours. Students may apply no more than twice to the major. Expectations for admission include a GPA of 3.0 and completion of, or current enrollment in, one of three courses: COMM 1025, 1040 or 1041. Because the acceptance process is selective, achievement of the minimum GPA does not guarantee admission to the major. Students are encouraged to have a GW GPA before applying, but it is NOT required.
- Applications to become a communication major are accepted twice a year.
- Fall semester applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday of the first full week of October.
- Spring semester applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday of the last full week of February.
- The application link is made available approximately three weeks before the due dates via the green Communication Application button below.
- Note: Applicants should expect to hear whether they are accepted to the program within two weeks after the application period is closed.
Course Requirements
The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Undergraduate Programs.
Program-specific curriculum:
Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Required (21 credits) | ||
COMM 1025 | Introduction to Communication Studies | |
COMM 1040 | Public Communication | |
COMM 1041 | Interpersonal Communication | |
COMM 2100 | Communication Theory | |
COMM 3110 | Research Methods in Communication | |
COMM 4150 | Persuasion | |
COMM 4199W | Senior Seminar | |
Electives (18 credits) | ||
Six additional Communication (COMM) courses at the 2000 level or above. | ||
Courses in related areas (15 credits) | ||
15 credits in upper-division courses in one other department, program, or field of study, as approved by the major advisor. This requirement may be fulfilled by completion of a second major, a minor, or a field of study other than oganizational communication. |