Communication
About the Program
Bachelor of Science: 182.0 quarter credits
Bachelor of Arts: 182.0 quarter credits
The Culture and Communication department offers a major in Communication, with concentrations in Corporate and Public Relations, Technical and Science Communication, and Global Journalism.
The department is committed to helping students become broadly educated and professionally competent individuals. Students are exposed to a variety of media and are guided in the development of their interpretive and expressive skills.
All Communication majors take a common core of courses that emphasize communication theory and methods. Then, they specialize in one of three concentrations. Students in the Corporate and Public Relations concentration pursue careers in public relations, corporate training, and corporate communication. Those who choose the Technical and Science Communication concentration go on to work in technical writing, science writing, publishing, and software and hardware documentation. Global Journalism students pursue careers in journalism and news. Many communication graduates also go on to law school, to business school for an MBA, or to graduate school.
Students who elect the Corporate and Public Relations concentration have the option of pursuing either a Bachelor of Arts degree or a Bachelor of Science degree. Students who elect the Technical and Science Communication concentration must pursue the Bachelor of Science degree. Students in Global Journalism must complete the requirements for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
Degree Requirements: Corporate and Public Relations (BA)
The concentration in Corporate and Public Relations covers a broad range of activities that help an organization and its public communicate with one another. The field includes public relations, media relations, financial writing, publication design, employee and customer communication, desktop publishing, and government relations.
Skills in this field run the gamut from written to spoken to visual communication. A corporate communication specialist might be called on to write articles for an in-house newsletter, to research and write an annual report to shareholders, to publicize a special event, to write a speech for an executive, to plan a press conference, to develop a media plan for an organization, or to script a video for an employee orientation session.
| General Requirements | ||
| ANTH 101 | Introduction to Cultural Diversity | 3.0 |
| COM 150 | Mass Media and Society | 3.0 |
| COM 360 | International Communication | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Expository Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Persuasive Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Analytical Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 3.0 |
| Two mathematics courses | 6.0-8.0 | |
| Two science courses | 6.0-8.0 | |
| Foreign language courses (at least one must be at the 200-level.) | 6.0-16.0 | |
| Three humanities/ fine arts courses | 9.0 | |
| One social/behavioral sciences course | 3.0 | |
| One international studies elective | 3.0 | |
| Two studies in diversity electives | 6.0 | |
| Communication Core Requirements | ||
| Theory Sequence | ||
| COM 101 | Human Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 210 | Theory and Models of Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 400 | Seminar in Communication | 3.0 |
| SOC 260 [WI] | Classical Social Theory | 3.0 |
| Methods Sequence | ||
| COM 220 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3.0 |
| SOC 250 | Research Methods I | 3.0 |
| SOC 364 | Computer-Assisted Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| Additional Core Requirements | ||
| COM 230 | Techniques of Speaking | 3.0 |
| COM 240 | New Technologies In Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 380 | Special Topics in Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 491 | Senior Project in Communication I | 3.0 |
| COM 492 | Senior Project in Communication II | 3.0 |
| PHIL 305 | Communication Ethics | 3.0 |
| Corporate and Public Relations Concentration Requirements | ||
| COM 260 [WI] | Fundamentals of Journalism | 3.0 |
| COM 280 | Public Relations Principles and Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 282 [WI] | Public Relations Writing | 3.0 |
| COM 284 | Public Relations Research, Measurement and Evaluation | 3.0 |
| COM 286 | Public Relations Strategies and Tactics | 3.0 |
| COM 386 | Public Relations Campaign Planning | 3.0 |
| MKTG 301 | Introduction to Marketing Management | 4.0 |
| ORGB 300 [WI] | Organizational Behavior | 4.0 |
| LING 101 | Introduction to Linguistics | 3.0 |
| or LING 102 | Language and Society | |
| Select one of the following Visual Communication courses: ** | 3.0 | |
| Electronic Publishing | ||
| Desktop Publishing | ||
| Culture and Communication Electives | ||
| Culture electives (Any two courses with a SOC, ANTH or CJ rubric. At least one course must be at the 200-level or higher.) | 6.0 | |
| Communication electives (Any four courses with a COM or LING rubric at the 200-level or higher) | 12.0 | |
| Additional Electives | ||
| Free electives | 24.0 | |
| Total Credits | 182.0 | |
| * | Or other courses as appropriate in COM or in the College of Media Arts and Design. |
Writing-Intensive Course Requirements
In order to graduate, all students must pass three writing-intensive courses after their freshman year. Two writing-intensive courses must be in a student's major. The third can be in any discipline. Students are advised to take one writing-intensive class each year, beginning with the sophomore year, and to avoid “clustering” these courses near the end of their matriculation. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
A "WI" next to a course in this catalog may indicate that this course can fulfill a writing-intensive requirement. For the most up-to-date list of writing-intensive courses being offered, students should check the Writing Intensive Course List at the University Writing Center. Students scheduling their courses can also conduct a search for courses with the attribute "WI" to bring up a list of all writing-intensive courses available that term. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
Sample Plan of Study
Corporate and Public Relations Concentration (BA)
| Term 1 | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| COM 101 | Human Communication | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Expository Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Mathematics course | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0-17.0 | |
| Term 2 | ||
| COM 150 | Mass Media and Society | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Persuasive Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Humanities/Fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| Foreign language course* | 4.0 | |
| Mathematics course | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Term Credits | 17.0-18.0 | |
| Term 3 | ||
| ANTH 101 | Introduction to Cultural Diversity | 3.0 |
| COM 280 | Public Relations Principles and Theory | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Analytical Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| Language course* | 4.0 | |
| International studies elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 4 | ||
| COM 210 | Theory and Models of Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 230 | Techniques of Speaking | 3.0 |
| Culture elective* | 3.0 | |
| Science elective | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Free elective/language | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0-17.0 | |
| Term 5 | ||
| COM 220 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3.0 |
| COM 282 [WI] | Public Relations Writing | 3.0 |
| COM 260 [WI] | Fundamentals of Journalism | 3.0 |
| Science elective | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Free elective/language | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0-17.0 | |
| Term 6 | ||
| COM 240 | New Technologies In Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 284 | Public Relations Research, Measurement and Evaluation | 3.0 |
| SOC 260 [WI] | Classical Social Theory | 3.0 |
| Diversity studies elective | 3.0 | |
| Social and behavioral sciences elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 7 | ||
| COM 286 | Public Relations Strategies and Tactics | 3.0 |
| SOC 250 | Research Methods I | 3.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Culture elective* | 3.0 | |
| Diversity studies elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 8 | ||
| ORGB 300 [WI] | Organizational Behavior | 4.0 |
| PHIL 305 | Communication Ethics | 3.0 |
| SOC 364 | Computer-Assisted Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| LING 102 or 101 | Language and Society Introduction to Linguistics | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 17.0 | |
| Term 9 | ||
| COM 380 | Special Topics in Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 386 | Public Relations Campaign Planning | 3.0 |
| MKTG 301 | Introduction to Marketing Management | 4.0 |
| Visual communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Humanities/Fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 10 | ||
| COM 400 | Seminar in Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 360 | International Communication | 3.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Humanities/Fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 11 | ||
| COM 491 | Senior Project in Communication I | 3.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Free electives | 7.0 | |
| Term Credits | 13.0 | |
| Term 12 | ||
| COM 492 | Senior Project in Communication II | 3.0 |
| Free electives | 9.0 | |
| Term Credits | 12.0 | |
| Total Credit: 182.0-188.0 | ||
| * | See degree requirements. |
Degree Requirements: Corporate and Public Relations (BS)
The concentration in Corporate and Public Relations covers a broad range of activities that help an organization and its publics communicate with one another. The field includes public relations, media relations, financial writing, publication design, employee and customer communication, desktop publishing, and government relations.
Skills in this field run the gamut from written to spoken to visual communication. A corporate communication specialist might be called on to write articles for an in-house newsletter, to research and write an annual report to shareholders, to publicize a special event, to write a speech for an executive, to plan a press conference, to develop a media plan for an organization, or to script a video for an employee orientation session.
| General Requirements | ||
| ANTH 101 | Introduction to Cultural Diversity | 3.0 |
| or ANTH 110 | Human Past: Anthropology and Prehistoric Archeology | |
| COM 150 | Mass Media and Society | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Expository Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Persuasive Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Analytical Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 3.0 |
| Political Science (PSCI) elective | 4.0 | |
| Economics elective | 4.0 | |
| Two History electives | 6.0 | |
| Two English (ENGL) electives (200-level or above) | 6.0 | |
| Fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| Philosophy elective | 3.0 | |
| Select one of the following Science Sequences: | 8.0 | |
Biology Sequence | ||
| Cells, Genetics & Physiology | ||
| Cells, Genetics and Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Biological Diversity, Ecology & Evolution | ||
| Biological Diversity, Ecology and Evolution Laboratory | ||
Chemistry Sequence | ||
| General Chemistry I | ||
| General Chemistry II | ||
Physics Sequence | ||
| General Physics I | ||
| General Physics II | ||
| Select one of the following Mathematics Sequences | 8.0 | |
Analysis Sequence | ||
| Introduction to Analysis I | ||
| Introduction to Analysis II | ||
Calculus Sequence | ||
| Calculus I | ||
| Calculus II | ||
| Communication Core Requirements | ||
| Theory Sequence | ||
| COM 101 | Human Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 210 | Theory and Models of Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 400 | Seminar in Communication | 3.0 |
| SOC 260 [WI] | Classical Social Theory | 3.0 |
| Methods Sequence | ||
| COM 220 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3.0 |
| SOC 250 | Research Methods I | 3.0 |
| SOC 364 | Computer-Assisted Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| Additional Core Requirements | ||
| COM 230 | Techniques of Speaking | 3.0 |
| COM 240 | New Technologies In Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 380 | Special Topics in Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 491 | Senior Project in Communication I | 3.0 |
| COM 492 | Senior Project in Communication II | 3.0 |
| PHIL 305 | Communication Ethics | 3.0 |
| Corporate and Public Relations Concentration Requirements | ||
| COM 260 [WI] | Fundamentals of Journalism | 3.0 |
| COM 280 | Public Relations Principles and Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 282 [WI] | Public Relations Writing | 3.0 |
| COM 284 | Public Relations Research, Measurement and Evaluation | 3.0 |
| COM 286 | Public Relations Strategies and Tactics | 3.0 |
| COM 386 | Public Relations Campaign Planning | 3.0 |
| MKTG 301 | Introduction to Marketing Management | 4.0 |
| ORGB 300 [WI] | Organizational Behavior | 4.0 |
| LING 101 | Introduction to Linguistics | 3.0 |
| or LING 102 | Language and Society | |
| Visual Communication Courses * | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Electronic Publishing | ||
| Desktop Publishing | ||
| Culture and Communication Electives | ||
| Communication Electives (Any four courses with a COM or LING rubric at the 200-level or higher) | 12.0 | |
| Culture Electives (Any two courses with a SOC, ANTH or CJ rubric. At least one course must be at the 200-level or higher.) | 6.0 | |
| Additional Electives | ||
| Free Electives | 27.0 | |
| Total Credits | 182.0 | |
| * | Or other courses as appropriate in COM or the College of Media Arts and Design. |
Writing-Intensive Course Requirements
In order to graduate, all students must pass three writing-intensive courses after their freshman year. Two writing-intensive courses must be in a student's major. The third can be in any discipline. Students are advised to take one writing-intensive class each year, beginning with the sophomore year, and to avoid “clustering” these courses near the end of their matriculation. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
A "WI" next to a course in this catalog may indicate that this course can fulfill a writing-intensive requirement. For the most up-to-date list of writing-intensive courses being offered, students should check the Writing Intensive Course List at the University Writing Center. Students scheduling their courses can also conduct a search for courses with the attribute "WI" to bring up a list of all writing-intensive courses available that term. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
Sample Plan of Study
Corporate and Public Relations Concentration (BS)
| Term 1 | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| COM 101 | Human Communication | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Expository Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| MATH 121 or 101 | Calculus I Introduction to Analysis I | 4.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Term Credits | 17.0 | |
| Term 2 | ||
| COM 150 | Mass Media and Society | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Persuasive Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| MATH 122 or 102 | Calculus II Introduction to Analysis II | 4.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| History elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 17.0 | |
| Term 3 | ||
| ANTH 101 | Introduction to Cultural Diversity | 3.0 |
| COM 280 | Public Relations Principles and Theory | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Analytical Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| Political Science (PSCI) elective | 4.0 | |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 4 | ||
| COM 210 | Theory and Models of Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 230 | Techniques of Speaking | 3.0 |
| Science sequence course 1* | 4.0 | |
| English (ENGL) course (200-level or above) | 3.0 | |
| Culture elective * | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 5 | ||
| COM 220 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3.0 |
| COM 260 [WI] | Fundamentals of Journalism | 3.0 |
| COM 282 [WI] | Public Relations Writing | 3.0 |
| Science sequence course 2* | 4.0 | |
| History elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 6 | ||
| COM 284 | Public Relations Research, Measurement and Evaluation | 3.0 |
| SOC 260 [WI] | Classical Social Theory | 3.0 |
| Communication elective * | 3.0 | |
| Economics (ECON) elective | 4.0 | |
| Philosophy (PHIL) elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 7 | ||
| COM 240 | New Technologies In Communication | 3.0 |
| SOC 250 | Research Methods I | 3.0 |
| COM 286 | Public Relations Strategies and Tactics | 3.0 |
| Visual Communication elective | 3.0 | |
| Culture elective* | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 8 | ||
| ORGB 300 [WI] | Organizational Behavior | 4.0 |
| PHIL 305 | Communication Ethics | 3.0 |
| SOC 364 | Computer-Assisted Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| LING 102 or 101 | Language and Society Introduction to Linguistics | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Term Credits | 14.0 | |
| Term 9 | ||
| COM 380 | Special Topics in Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 386 | Public Relations Campaign Planning | 3.0 |
| MKTG 301 | Introduction to Marketing Management | 4.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 10 | ||
| COM 400 | Seminar in Communication | 3.0 |
| English (ENGL) course (200-level or above) | 3.0 | |
| Communication elective | 3.0 | |
| Free electives | 6.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 11 | ||
| COM 491 | Senior Project in Communication I | 3.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Free electives | 6.0-9.0 | |
| Term Credits | 12.0-15.0 | |
| Term 12 | ||
| COM 492 | Senior Project in Communication II | 3.0 |
| Free electives | 9.0 | |
| Term Credits | 12.0 | |
| Total Credit: 182.0-185.0 | ||
| * | See degree requirements. |
Degree Requirements: Global Journalism (BA)
Global journalism provides students with the skills and theoretical perspective they need to practice journalism on an international stage. Journalism is an international business, and the range of potential jobs for graduates grows almost daily. An extension of the program's core curriculum, the concentration hones the student's ability to write and edit while at the same time exposing the student to new and evolving aspects of the field.
| General Requirements | ||
| ANTH 101 | Introduction to Cultural Diversity | 3.0 |
| or ANTH 110 | Human Past: Anthropology and Prehistoric Archeology | |
| COM 150 | Mass Media and Society | 3.0 |
| COM 345 | Intercultural Communication | 3.0 |
| or ANTH 312 | Approaches to Intercultural Behavior | |
| COM 360 | International Communication | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Expository Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Persuasive Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Analytical Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 3.0 |
| Two mathematics courses | 6.0-8.0 | |
| Two science courses | 6.0-8.0 | |
| Foreign language courses * | 8.0-16.0 | |
| Three humanities and fine arts electives | 9.0 | |
| One social and behavioral sciences elective | 3.0 | |
| One international studies elective | 3.0 | |
| One studies in diversity elective | 3.0 | |
| Communication Core Requirements | ||
| Theory Sequence | ||
| COM 101 | Human Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 210 | Theory and Models of Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 400 | Seminar in Communication | 3.0 |
| SOC 260 [WI] | Classical Social Theory | 3.0 |
| Methods Sequence | ||
| COM 220 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3.0 |
| SOC 250 | Research Methods I | 3.0 |
| SOC 364 | Computer-Assisted Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| Additional Core Requirements | ||
| COM 230 | Techniques of Speaking | 3.0 |
| COM 240 | New Technologies In Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 380 | Special Topics in Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 491 | Senior Project in Communication I | 3.0 |
| COM 492 | Senior Project in Communication II | 3.0 |
| PHIL 305 | Communication Ethics | 3.0 |
| Global Journalism Concentration Requirements | ||
| COM 260 [WI] | Fundamentals of Journalism | 3.0 |
| COM 280 | Public Relations Principles and Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 300 [WI] | On-line Journalism | 3.0 |
| COM 315 | Investigative Journalism | 3.0 |
| COM 365 | Journalists, the Courts, and the Law | 3.0 |
| COM 390 [WI] | Global Journalism | 3.0 |
| TVPR 220 | TV News Writing | 3.0 |
| LING 101 | Introduction to Linguistics | 3.0 |
| or LING 102 | Language and Society | |
| Select one of the following: | 3.0-4.0 | |
| International Politics | ||
| International Business Law | ||
| International Negotiations | ||
| Globalization | ||
| Culture and Communication Electives | ||
| Culture electives (Any two courses with a SOC, ANTH or CJ rubric. At least one course must be at the 200-level or higher.) | 6.0 | |
| Communication electives (Any four courses with a COM rubric at the 200-level or higher.) | 12.0 | |
| Additional Electives | ||
| Free Electives | 30.0 | |
| Total Credits | 182.0-195.0 | |
| * | At least one foreign language course must be at the 200-level. |
Writing-Intensive Course Requirements
In order to graduate, all students must pass three writing-intensive courses after their freshman year. Two writing-intensive courses must be in a student's major. The third can be in any discipline. Students are advised to take one writing-intensive class each year, beginning with the sophomore year, and to avoid “clustering” these courses near the end of their matriculation. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
A "WI" next to a course in this catalog may indicate that this course can fulfill a writing-intensive requirement. For the most up-to-date list of writing-intensive courses being offered, students should check the Writing Intensive Course List at the University Writing Center. Students scheduling their courses can also conduct a search for courses with the attribute "WI" to bring up a list of all writing-intensive courses available that term. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
Sample Plan of Study
Global Journalism (BA)
| Term 1 | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| COM 101 | Human Communication | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Expository Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Math elective | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0-17.0 | |
| Term 2 | ||
| COM 150 | Mass Media and Society | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Persuasive Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Foreign language course | 4.0 | |
| Humanities and fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 14.0 | |
| Term 3 | ||
| COM 260 [WI] | Fundamentals of Journalism | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Analytical Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| ANTH 110 or 101 | Human Past: Anthropology and Prehistoric Archeology Introduction to Cultural Diversity | 3.0 |
| Foreign language course | 4.0 | |
| International studies elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 4 | ||
| COM 210 | Theory and Models of Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 240 | New Technologies In Communication | 3.0 |
| LING 102 or 101 | Language and Society Introduction to Linguistics | 3.0 |
| Foreign language course/Free elective | 4.0 | |
| Culture elective* | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 5 | ||
| COM 220 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3.0 |
| COM 280 | Public Relations Principles and Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 300 [WI] | On-line Journalism | 3.0 |
| Foreign language/Free elective | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Science elective* | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0-17.0 | |
| Term 6 | ||
| COM 230 | Techniques of Speaking | 3.0 |
| COM 345 or ANTH 312 | Intercultural Communication Approaches to Intercultural Behavior | 3.0 |
| SOC 250 | Research Methods I | 3.0 |
| TVPR 220 | TV News Writing | 3.0 |
| Science elective* | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 7 | ||
| COM 315 | Investigative Journalism | 3.0 |
| SOC 260 [WI] | Classical Social Theory | 3.0 |
| Social and behavioral sciences elective | 3.0 | |
| Communication elective * | 3.0 | |
| Humanities/Fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 8 | ||
| COM 365 | Journalists, the Courts, and the Law | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Select one of the following: | 4.0 | |
| International Business Law | ||
| Globalization | ||
| International Politics | ||
| Communication elective * | 3.0 | |
| Diversity studies elective | 3.0 | |
| Humanities/Fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 17.0 | |
| Term 9 | ||
| SOC 364 | Computer-Assisted Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Culture elective * | 3.0 | |
| Free electives | 6.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 10 | ||
| COM 360 | International Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 380 | Special Topics in Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 390 [WI] | Global Journalism | 3.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 11 | ||
| COM 400 | Seminar in Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 491 | Senior Project in Communication I | 3.0 |
| PHIL 305 | Communication Ethics | 3.0 |
| Free electives | 4.0-6.0 | |
| Term Credits | 13.0-15.0 | |
| Term 12 | ||
| COM 492 | Senior Project in Communication II | 3.0 |
| Free electives | 9.0 | |
| Term Credits | 12.0 | |
| Total Credit: 179.0-184.0 | ||
| * | See degree requirements. |
Degree Requirements: Technical & Science Communication (BS)
Students learn to communicate scientific and technical information to various audiences. The program combines courses that develop communication skills with courses that enhance understanding of science and technology.
Students in this concentration find work in a wide range of areas, including providing written documentation for software or hardware products, developing materials for the Web, writing proposals, researching and composing materials to accompany pharmaceutical submissions to the FDA, and writing in the fields of general medicine or science.
| General Requirements | ||
| ANTH 101 | Introduction to Cultural Diversity | 3.0 |
| or ANTH 110 | Human Past: Anthropology and Prehistoric Archeology | |
| COM 150 | Mass Media and Society | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Expository Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Persuasive Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Analytical Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 3.0 |
| Economics elective | 4.0 | |
| Two History electives | 6.0 | |
| English elective | 3.0 | |
| Fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| Political Science (PSCI) elective | 4.0 | |
| Philosophy elective | 3.0 | |
| Science Sequences | ||
| Select one of the following: | 8.0 | |
| Biology Sequence | ||
| Cells, Genetics & Physiology | ||
| Cells, Genetics and Physiology Laboratory | ||
| Biological Diversity, Ecology & Evolution | ||
| Biological Diversity, Ecology and Evolution Laboratory | ||
| Chemistry Sequence | ||
| General Chemistry I | ||
| General Chemistry II | ||
| Physics Sequence | ||
| General Physics I | ||
| General Physics II | ||
| Mathematics Sequence | ||
| Select one of the following: | 8.0 | |
| Analysis Sequence | ||
| Introduction to Analysis I | ||
| Introduction to Analysis II | ||
| Calculus Sequence | ||
| Calculus I | ||
| Calculus II | ||
| Communication Core Requirements | ||
| Theory Sequence | ||
| COM 101 | Human Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 210 | Theory and Models of Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 400 | Seminar in Communication | 3.0 |
| SOC 260 [WI] | Classical Social Theory | 3.0 |
| Methods Sequence | ||
| COM 220 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3.0 |
| SOC 250 | Research Methods I | 3.0 |
| SOC 364 | Computer-Assisted Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| Additional Core Requirements | ||
| COM 230 | Techniques of Speaking | 3.0 |
| COM 240 | New Technologies In Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 491 | Senior Project in Communication I | 3.0 |
| COM 492 | Senior Project in Communication II | 3.0 |
| PHIL 305 | Communication Ethics | 3.0 |
| Technical and Science Concentration Requirements | ||
| COM 280 | Public Relations Principles and Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 310 [WI] | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| COM 335 | Electronic Publishing | 3.0 |
| COM 340 | Desktop Publishing | 3.0 |
| COM 350 [WI] | Message Design and Evaluation | 3.0 |
| COM 380 | Special Topics in Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 420 | Technical Editing | 3.0 |
| Other Program Requirements | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| History of Science: Ancient to Medieval | ||
| History of Science: Enlightenment to Modernity | ||
| Technology in Historical Perspective | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Introduction to Linguistics | ||
| Language and Society | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Literature & Science | ||
| Environmental Literature | ||
| Philosophy of Science | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Cognitive Psychology | ||
| Human-Computer Interaction | ||
| Culture and Communication electives | ||
| Communication Electives (Any four courses with a COM rubric at the 200-level or higher) | 12.0 | |
| Culture electives (Any two courses with a SOC, ANTH, or CJ rubric. At least one course must be at the 200-level or higher.) | 6.0 | |
| Free electives | 29.0 | |
| Additional Electives | ||
| Total Credits | 182.0 | |
Writing-Intensive Course Requirements
In order to graduate, all students must pass three writing-intensive courses after their freshman year. Two writing-intensive courses must be in a student's major. The third can be in any discipline. Students are advised to take one writing-intensive class each year, beginning with the sophomore year, and to avoid “clustering” these courses near the end of their matriculation. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
A "WI" next to a course in this catalog may indicate that this course can fulfill a writing-intensive requirement. For the most up-to-date list of writing-intensive courses being offered, students should check the Writing Intensive Course List at the University Writing Center. Students scheduling their courses can also conduct a search for courses with the attribute "WI" to bring up a list of all writing-intensive courses available that term. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
Sample Plan of Study
Technical and Science Communication (BS)
| Term 1 | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| COM 101 | Human Communication | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Expository Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| MATH 121 or 101 | Calculus I Introduction to Analysis I | 4.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Term Credits | 14.0 | |
| Term 2 | ||
| COM 150 | Mass Media and Society | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Persuasive Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| MATH 122 or 102 | Calculus II Introduction to Analysis II | 4.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Term Credits | 11.0 | |
| Term 3 | ||
| ENGL 103 | Analytical Writing and Reading | 3.0 |
| PSCI 100 | Introduction to Political Science | 4.0 |
| ANTH 110 or 101 | Human Past: Anthropology and Prehistoric Archeology Introduction to Cultural Diversity | 3.0 |
| Fine arts elective | 3.0 | |
| Political Science (PSCI) elective | 4.0 | |
| Term Credits | 17.0 | |
| Term 4 | ||
| COM 220 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3.0 |
| Philosophy (PHIL) elective | 3.0 | |
| Science elective* | 4.0 | |
| History elective | 3.0 | |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 5 | ||
| COM 230 | Techniques of Speaking | 3.0 |
| COM 240 | New Technologies In Communication | 3.0 |
| SOC 260 [WI] | Classical Social Theory | 3.0 |
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Literature & Science | ||
| Philosophy of Science | ||
| Environmental Literature | ||
| Science elective* | 4.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 6 | ||
| COM 280 | Public Relations Principles and Theory | 3.0 |
| COM 335 | Electronic Publishing | 3.0 |
| Economics (ECON) elective | 4.0 | |
| Culture elective * | 3.0 | |
| English (ENGL) elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 7 | ||
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| COM 340 | Desktop Publishing | 3.0 |
| UNIV H101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Free electives | 6.0 | |
| Term Credits | 16.0 | |
| Term 8 | ||
| COM 210 | Theory and Models of Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 310 [WI] | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| SOC 250 | Research Methods I | 3.0 |
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| History of Science: Ancient to Medieval | ||
| History of Science: Enlightenment to Modernity | ||
| Technology in Historical Perspective | ||
| LING 101 or 102 | Introduction to Linguistics Language and Society | 3.0 |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 9 | ||
| COM 350 [WI] | Message Design and Evaluation | 3.0 |
| COM 420 | Technical Editing | 3.0 |
| SOC 364 | Computer-Assisted Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| History (HIST) elective | 3.0 | |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 10 | ||
| COM 380 | Special Topics in Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| PSY 337 or 330 | Human-Computer Interaction Cognitive Psychology | 3.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Free electives | 6.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 11 | ||
| COM 400 | Seminar in Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 491 | Senior Project in Communication I | 3.0 |
| PHIL 305 | Communication Ethics | 3.0 |
| Communication elective* | 3.0 | |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Term 12 | ||
| COM 492 | Senior Project in Communication II | 3.0 |
| Free electives | 11.0 | |
| Term Credits | 14.0 | |
| Total Credit: 180.0 | ||
| * | See degree requirements. |
Co-op/Career Opportunities
Corporate and Public Relations
Graduates with a concentration in Corporate and Public Relations find employment in a wide variety of fields, including public relations, advertising, special events planning, writing and editing, and public information. In addition, the strong communication and management skills stressed by this concentration enable the graduates to find administrative positions in various business areas with an indirect relationship to corporate communication such as marketing, sales, human resources consulting, or publishing.
Although graduate study is not necessary for those who pursue careers in corporate communication, students have used the major as a basis for graduate work in a variety of areas, including communication, business, and law.
Co-op Experiences in Corporate and Public Relations
Co-operative education opportunities are available with a variety of corporations and nonprofits in such positions as corporate communication specialist, public relations assistant, and newsletter writer. The following are samples of past co-op experiences:
- Advertising and Promotions Assistant, CoreStates Bicycle Championships, Philadelphia.
- Corporate Communications Co-op, Philadelphia Electric Company, Philadelphia.
- Advertising/ Promotions Co-op, U.S. Marketing Division, Mobil Oil Corp. , Fairfax, VA.
- Assistant Coordinator, Communications Bureau, United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.
Global Journalism
Global journalism students pursue degrees in journalism and news. Many communication graduates also go on to law school, to business school for an MBA, or to graduate school. Graduates of this program are also in demand by news and information services as they expand their global reach.
Sample Global Journalism Co-op Experiences
- Production assistant, WPVI-TV (Channel 6) Philadelphia
- Staff writer, Delaware County Daily Times
- Promotions department, WPLY-FM (Y-100)
- Production assistant, sports department, FOX-29 (WTFX-TV)
Sample Global Journalism Senior Projects
- Content analysis of New York Times coverage of Rwanda tragedy
- Creation of http://www.abinka.org, a fully realized webzine
Technical and Science Communication
Students who study technical and science communication are prepared for a variety of career options. Currently there is a shortage of people qualified to write about the technology. Many students become technical writers and editors who produce manuals and reports about high-technology products and services. Many students go on to write specifications and in-house organs for business, industry, and government. Other students conduct and interpret surveys for business. Many students quickly rise to managerial and executive positions, in which they participate in the research and development of new products. Some students become science writers for newspapers.
In addition, this program is excellent preparation for graduate study in a number of fields, such as law and medicine.
Co-op Experiences in Technical and Science Communication
Communication students have worked for corporations and nonprofit organizations. The following are some samples of past co-op experiences:
- Technical writer, Unisys Corp. and Hewlett Packard
- Web page writer, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
- Pharmaceutical writer, GlaxoSmithKline
- Medical writer, Medcases Corp.
Visit the Drexel Steinbright Career Development Center page for more detailed information on co-op and post-graduate opportunities.
Minor in Communication
The minor in communication is a 24.0 credit curriculum designed to familiarize students with communication theory while providing training in print and electronic communication skills. The minor can provide a strong complement for majors that emphasize presentations, interpersonal skills, publicity, and marketing. Students minoring in communication can focus on Corporate and Public Relations, Journalism, Technical and Science Communication or Environmental Communication.
First, three core courses in Communication Studies are required for the minor. Second, students focus on one of the following areas:
- Journalism
- Corporate and Public Relations
- Technical and Science Communication
- Environmental Communication
Finally, students complete three additional electives from the area that fits their interest.
| Core Courses | ||
| COM 210 | Theory and Models of Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 380 | Special Topics in Communication Theory | 3.0 |
| Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
| Human Communication | ||
| Principles of Communication | ||
| Focus Areas | 6.0 | |
| Select one of the following areas of focus (2 courses): | ||
| Journalism | ||
| Fundamentals of Journalism | ||
Select one of the following: | ||
| On-line Journalism | ||
| Investigative Journalism | ||
| Global Journalism | ||
| Corporate and Public Relations | ||
| Public Relations Principles and Theory | ||
Select one of the following: | ||
| Business Communication | ||
| Public Relations Writing | ||
| Public Relations Research, Measurement and Evaluation | ||
| Technical and Science Communication | ||
| Technical Communication | ||
Select one of the following: | ||
| Science Writing | ||
| Grant Writing | ||
| Environmental Communication | ||
| Environmental Communication | ||
Select one of the following: | ||
| Campaigns for Health & Environment | ||
| Film, Celebrity and the Environmental Movement | ||
| Three Additional Courses | ||
| Three Communication (COM) or Linguistics (LING) Electives | 9.0 | |
| Total Credits | 24.0 | |






