BA in Communication

Undergraduate students sitting around a table working on a piece of paper together

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.

GW Career Services


Rachael Paul

"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 10251040 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.  

Apply here!

 

Grad students at table
 
 
Three students in kogan
 

Course Requirements

The following requirements must be fulfilled:

The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Undergraduate Programs.

Program-specific curriculum:

Required
COMM 1025Introduction to Communication Studies
COMM 1040Public Communication
COMM 1041Interpersonal Communication
COMM 2100Communication Theory
COMM 3110Research Methods in Communication
COMM 3170Organizational Communication
COMM 4150Persuasion
COMM 4199WSenior Seminar
Electives
15 credits in five Communication (COMM) courses taken at the 2000 level or above selected from the following:
COMM 2120Small Group Communication
COMM 2140Nonverbal Behavior
COMM 3171Professional Communication
COMM 3172Health Communication
COMM 3173Communication in a Mediated World
COMM 3174Intercultural Communication
COMM 3175Strategic Communication
COMM 3176Issues and Image Management
COMM 3177Corporate Ethical Communication
COMM 3180Communication Criticism
COMM 3181WFoundations of Professional Writing in Communication Roles
COMM 3190Selected Topics
COMM 4196Independent Study
COMM 4197Internship
Courses in related areas
15 credits (five courses) taken at the 2000 level or above in a single department, major, or area of study outside this program, as approved by the major advisor. This requirement can be fulfilled by completing a second major or a minor program, except for the organizational communication and communication minors.