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The Communication Studies program is dedicated to preparing students for seamless transfer to four-year colleges or universities, where they can pursue advanced degrees in Communication or related Social Science disciplines.
Department Overview
Communication skills are essential to forming and maintaining personal relationships, acquiring and excelling in a job, and relating to the world around us. Through the study and practice of interpersonal, professional, and intercultural communication skills, students will learn how their perceptions and self-esteem affect their interactions with others. Beyond this, students will improve their abilities to speak, write, and present information effectively, whether in face-to-face interactions or in public or mass-media settings.
Career Opportunities
A degree in Communications offers a broad range of career opportunities across various industries that rely on effective communication skills. Here are some potential career paths for individuals with a degree in Communications:
- Public Relations Specialist: Public relations specialists manage the public image and reputation of organizations or individuals. They write press releases, pitch stories to media outlets, coordinate events, and handle crisis communication to maintain positive relationships with stakeholders.
- Corporate Communications Specialist: Corporate communications specialists develop and implement communication strategies for businesses and organizations. They may write internal newsletters, create employee communication programs, and manage external communication channels such as social media, websites, and press releases.
- Marketing Coordinator: Marketing coordinators assist with the development and implementation of marketing campaigns and strategies. They write content for advertisements, email campaigns, social media posts, and promotional materials to attract and engage customers.
- Social Media Manager: Social media managers oversee an organization's presence on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. They create content, interact with followers, monitor trends, and analyze data to optimize social media performance.
- Content Writer/Editor: Content writers and editors create and edit written material for websites, blogs, newsletters, magazines, and other publications. They ensure that content is accurate, engaging, and aligned with the organization's brand voice and messaging.
- Journalist/Reporter: Journalists and reporters gather information, conduct interviews, and write news stories for newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and online media outlets. They cover a wide range of topics, from local events and politics to sports and entertainment.
- Advertising Copywriter: Advertising copywriters develop creative and persuasive messages for advertising campaigns across various media channels, including print, television, radio, and digital platforms. They collaborate with art directors, designers, and marketers to craft compelling ad copy that resonates with target audiences.
- Media Planner/Buyer: Media planners and buyers research, plan, and purchase advertising space and time for clients across different media channels. They analyze audience demographics, negotiate rates with media outlets, and track the effectiveness of advertising campaigns.
- Event Coordinator: Event coordinators plan and execute corporate events, conferences, trade shows, fundraisers, and other special events. They coordinate logistics, manage budgets, liaise with vendors and sponsors, and ensure that events run smoothly from start to finish.
- Market Research Analyst: Market research analysts collect and analyze data on consumer preferences, market trends, and competitive landscapes to help organizations make informed decisions about product development, pricing, and marketing strategies.
- Digital Content Strategist: Digital content strategists develop and implement strategies for creating, distributing, and managing digital content across websites, social media platforms, email campaigns, and other digital channels. They leverage analytics and user insights to optimize content performance and drive engagement.
- Public Affairs Specialist: Public affairs specialists work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups to communicate policies, programs, and initiatives to the public. They may draft speeches, prepare briefing materials, and engage with stakeholders to promote awareness and support for specific causes.
These are just a few examples of the diverse career opportunities available to individuals with a degree in Communications. Depending on their interests, skills, and career goals, graduates may explore various industries and roles that require strong communication, writing, research, and interpersonal skills. Internships, networking, and professional development opportunities can also help Communications graduates gain practical experience and advance their careers in their chosen fields.
Contact Us
Department Chair
Mariella Thaning
Email: mthaning@peralta.edu
Dean
Elizabeth Maher
Email: emaher@peralta.edu
Learning & Career Pathway
Language & Communication
Division
Liberal Arts
Degrees & Certificate
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This Degree is designed to prepare students for a seamless transfer with junior status and priority admission to their local CSU campus to a program or major in Communication Studies or similar major for completion of a baccalaureate degree.
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Coursework in Language Arts emphasizes both the form and content of linguistic communication. Students will learn to examine communicative acts within a wider social context, and to apply the principles of language and rhetoric toward the development of logical thought, precise and effective expression, and critical evaluation.
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Communication skills are essential to forming and maintaining personal relationships, acquiring and excelling in a job, and relating to the world around us. Through the study and practice of interpersonal, professional, and intercultural communication skills, students will learn how their perceptions and self-esteem affect their interactions with others.
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Unlock Financial Aid for College Expenses
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Laney College's AA-T and AS-T degrees guarantee junior standing admission to the CSU system, with priority for local CSU campuses in similar programs. Consult a counselor or transfer specialist for details.
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Counselors can help you create a Student Educational Plan (SEP) to outline the courses needed for an Associate’s degree, transfer, or certificate, even if you're unsure of your educational goals.
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We provide support with career exploration, self-assessment as well as the major and career decision making process to help all Laney students achieve career satisfaction and success.