Why major in Communication Studies at Washburn?
Communication Studies is an ideal major for students with multiple interests and diverse talents. When you study communication studies at Washburn you'll learn about theories, tools, and techniques for analyzing, managing, and improving communication in every arena of human interaction. Whether your interests are in professional or personal communication contexts, you'll learn the skills needed to design, implement and measure effective communication plans.
Effective communication skills are in great demand in today's competitive job market and Communication Studies faculty at Washburn will help you strengthen your skills.
Learn to communicate effectively
It’s no secret that employers in a wide range of fields seek those who can communicate effectively with all types of audiences. In this program, you'll learn to do just that by mixing knowledge of theory with practical skill. Most students pair this degree with a minor and many opt for a second major in an area such as mass media, sociology, anthropology, or a natural science, depending on their unique goals.
Admissions Scholarships
Washburn University offers generous scholarships based on your interests, career aspirations, community service and academic success.Comm Studies Departmental Scholarships
The Communication Studies department awards multiple scholarships and fellowships to exemplary students each year.Departmental Scholarship Application
Download the Comm Studies departmental scholarship application.- Admissions ScholarshipsAdmissions Scholarships
- Comm Studies Departmental ScholarshipsComm Studies Departmental Scholarships
- Departmental Scholarship ApplicationDepartmental Scholarship Application
Tuition and fees
Depending on the courses you select, you’ll be taking either traditional undergraduate or undergraduate distance courses.Financial aid
Washburn University offers generous undergraduate financial aid, including scholarships and grants.Tuition waiver programs
If you don’t currently live in Kansas, learn about our Tuition Waiver programs that may qualify you for in-state tuition.- Tuition and feesTuition and fees
- Financial aidFinancial aid
- Tuition waiver programsTuition waiver programs
Meet D'Mya who found her home in the Communication Studies Department
D'Mya Valdivia didn't plan to major in Communication when she came to Washburn, but encouragement from one of her professors and success in an introductory class inspired her to make the switch. She enjoys the way her Communication Studies classes are close-knit and have classmates who offer different viewpoints to explore.
Graduate with experience:
- All students complete either an internship or an original research capstone. Some choose to do both.
- 20 percent of program graduates continue to graduate school.
- 57 percent of majors graduate in four years.
Courses: CN150, CN101
Pro tips: Take your general education courses from a variety of disciplines to get a taste of a lot of fields. Join a student organization and attend campus and community events.
Courses: CN302, CN electives.
Pro tips: Work with your advisor to tailor your experience through CN electives. Consider applying to be a First Year Experience (FYE) Peer Educator or a Summer Orientation Counselor.
Courses: CN304/305, CN electives
Pro tips: Take a leadership position within the Communication Club. Look into joining the Lambda Pi Eta honor society. Complete research and apply to attend a communication conference.
Courses: CN 491: Capstone Internship OR CN 498: Senior Capstone, remaining CN electives.
Pro tips: Investigate requirements for careers or professional schools related to your interests.
Jobs & Opportunities
Important qualities:
Curious about human behavior
Like to learn new things and explain them to others
Enjoy working in teams
Common entry-level job titles
Human Resources assistant
Social media manager
Assistant Account Manager (marketing, advertising)
Banking assistant
Marketing assistant
Training and development assistant
Communications assistant
Copy writer
Public Relations assistant
Public affairs assistant
Volunteer coordinator
Outreach assistant
Recent internship and research sites include:
Advisors Excel
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Capitol Federal Bank
Kansas Chamber
McGrew Real Estate
Topeka Zoo
GET IN TOUCH WITH Department of Communication Studies
Communication Studies Department
Morgan Hall, Room 206
1700 SW College Ave
Topeka, KS 66621
Phone & Email
Phone: 785-670-2230
communication@washburn.edu
