Communication and Media Studies
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science (B.A., B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • 120 Credits
Communication and media studies explore the creation, reception, and interpretation of human communication.
Overview
Students learn and apply effective communication strategies through speaking, listening, writing, and nonverbal outlets across various subjects. Study the ways messages are sent and received and the countless ways internal and external forces drive interpretation. The curriculum closely examines the effects of space, time, media, and humanity on communication while offering a robust liberal education.
Core courses include concepts of communication, speech, and communication theory. You will explore argument and analysis, media literacy, and intercultural communication to gain an understanding of the multifaceted nature of all communication. Electives offer further specialization in advertising and public relations, health communication, journalism, broadcasting, and digital media.
Studying communication at Grand Valley offers a dynamic and flexible curriculum guided by enthusiastic faculty who are both dedicated teachers and active scholars. You will have numerous opportunities to develop your skills and gain professional experience through the campus newspaper (Lanthorn), student-run television (GVTV), radio (Whale), visual and performing arts, research, and internships with organizations like PBS/NPR. This comprehensive approach prepares you for a wide range of career and higher education opportunities after graduation.
gvsu.edu/soc
290 Lake Superior
Hall
(616) 331-3668
Admissions and Recruitment Office
Career Opportunities
Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Speaking
- Active Listening
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 69,918.19 | 10% |
| $ 96,395.23 | 25% |
| $128,093.95 | 50% |
| $168,906.15 | 75% |
| $217,578.98 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities to solicit and maintain funds for special projects or nonprofit organizations.
Top skills- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Social Perceptiveness
- Active Listening
- Persuasion
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 72,971.24 | 10% |
| $ 86,123.97 | 25% |
| $106,574.05 | 50% |
| $142,328.23 | 75% |
| $179,376.97 | 90% |
Write technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions. May assist in layout work.
Top skills- Writing
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 45,392.10 | 10% |
| $ 58,645.38 | 25% |
| $ 77,950.35 | 50% |
| $102,689.65 | 75% |
| $129,736.26 | 90% |
Research conditions in local, regional, national, or online markets. Gather information to determine potential sales of a product or service, or plan a marketing or advertising campaign. May gather information on competitors, prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution. May employ search marketing tactics, analyze web metrics, and develop recommendations to increase search engine ranking and visibility to target markets.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 38,175.54 | 10% |
| $ 48,683.50 | 25% |
| $ 67,115.94 | 50% |
| $ 95,732.73 | 75% |
| $129,832.28 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate advertising policies and programs or produce collateral materials, such as posters, contests, coupons, or giveaways, to create extra interest in the purchase of a product or service for a department, an entire organization, or on an account basis.
Top skills- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Social Perceptiveness
- Reading Comprehension
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 55,652.52 | 10% |
| $ 73,429.61 | 25% |
| $ 94,358.28 | 50% |
| $133,221.92 | 75% |
| $187,345.88 | 90% |
#1
University in Michigan by Employers
79%
GVSU Students Receive Offers Before Graduation
A "Best Bang for Your Buck"
By Washington Monthly
The Institute of General Semantics
GVSU School of Communications students can apply for The Study and Practice of General Semantics Scholarship until 3/15/2026. Professor Corey Anton serves as vice president of the Institute of General Semantics (IGS), an educational organization promoting the advancements of critical thinking, rational behavior, and general sanity through a scientific understanding of human behavior.
Study Abroad
Professor Peter Zhang leads the annual UK Communications Study Abroad. Spend a month living in the heart of London, around the corner from a tube station with music, food, sights, and shops all within walking distance. Coursework and daily field trips enhance the cultural experiences that you will study and practice. Eligibility and course offerings information is available at gvsu.edu/studyabroad.
"Over time, one becomes at one with the rhythms, tonality, and atmosphere of the city, making it hard to leave and unacceptable to not go back."
-Peter Zhang
Student Organizations
Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Attending student life events, joining a student organization, or participating in campus recreation opportunities are all fantastic ways to maximize your college years
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