The School of Communication and Media offers students the opportunity to specialize in interpersonal and cultural communication, journalism and media studies, strategic communication and public relations, or communication studies.
Courses help students improve their skills in writing, speaking, and understanding the messages of others in interpersonal, group, organizational, and mass media contexts. To accomplish these goals, the curriculum addresses the theoretical, critical, and technical/applied aspects of communication.
Academic Programs
Graduate Programs
UIS offers graduate level programs in Communication and Digital Media and in Public Affairs Reporting. Both are available in an accelerated format.
Undergraduate Programs
Students studying Communication at UIS can focus their studies on Interpersonal and Cultural Communication, Journalism and Media Studies, Strategic Communication and Public Relations or Communication Studies.
Minors
The flexibility and varied topics of study in Communication apply to students of all disciplines, from Business to Legal Studies to Sociology. Hands-on, career-building experiences are available to students pursuing a minor in communication.
Student Involvement
The Observer is UIS's editorially independent, student-run news website, covering current events on and off campus. We're always looking for new voices and perspectives to feature. If you're interested in writing for the experience and/or course credit, contact Jason Piscia, student media director.
The Speech and Debate Team teaches students to communicate ideas, opinions and beliefs in a meaningful and impactful way. Through extensive competition and service opportunities, competitors acquire skills needed to be successful in the classroom and in their future workplace. Contact coach Claire Gordon.
Lambda Pi Eta, also known as the National Communication Association, is a Communication honor society. UIS's chapter allows students to network with each other and communication professionals, as well as receive special recognition at graduation. Contact faculty advisor Dusty Day for more information.
Featured Alumni
Senior Director, Media and Public Affairs
Illinois Health and Hospital Association
B.A., Communication; MPA, Public Administration
"I proudly served as a state government communications professional for 14 years before moving into the healthcare industry working for a well-respected and influential non-profit association. Thanks to my experiences at UIS, I was able to move into more prominent leadership roles, including serving as the Chief Communication and Civic Engagement Officer for the Illinois State Treasurer.
UIS has an outstanding reputation and truly changed the trajectory of my life in the most positive ways. I will be forever grateful to UIS for a great education, memorable experiences, lasting relationships, and a successful path forward."
Correspondent, Chicago Tonight
WTTW-TV
M.A. Public Affairs Reporting
"You’ll graduate with a master’s degree in PAR, but more importantly you’ll have the confidence, clips and real-world skills to back it up. PAR propelled my career and changed my life. This isn’t a 'fetch coffee and log tape' sort of internship; it’s an opportunity to do high stakes on-the-ground reporting ... from the marble floors of the state Capitol, where there’s a story behind every corner, committee and caucus. As an intern, I got to tell those stories on radio stations across Illinois. As an intern! If you can master covering politics – especially Illinois politics – you’ve got the foundation to cover any beat."
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