The Department of Communication and Media Studies plans to update its curriculum and implement a new concentration in Fall 2026.
The revised program includes new courses and curriculum requirements, but students can still choose to follow the existing regular curriculum. A fourth concentration, “communication and media studies,” has also been added.
Students currently enrolled are not required to switch to the new curriculum, though faculty recommend all students look into the transition.
To help students and faculty get an in-depth understanding, the department hosted information sessions on March 24-25 in D Vickers Hall.
Hunter Waddell, an instructor, academic advisor and the undergraduate coordinator, explained the new curriculum changes and the opportunities it offers.
“It is going to open a lot of different options and offer more flexibility for students. It is going to make advising and selecting courses a little easier, especially with communication elective classes. Students do not have to choose all those specific categories of classes,” Waddell said.
One of the most notable updates in the new curriculum is the reduction of foreign language requirements, with only two required credits now. Students will now be able to choose six elective courses totaling 18 credit hours, with at least three courses at the 3000-4000 level.
Courses such as COMM 3910, communication theory and research, and COMM 4530, communication law and ethics, are being reintroduced as required courses for all concentrations.
“We are bringing those classes back after an estimated six years. The main point for students to get comfortable with researching, writing, especially for students’ capstone projects. For media law, ethics, copyright and trademark you can get in trouble for that. We want to make sure students know these things before going into the career field,” Waddell said.
The new path also offers greater flexibility for students who want to combine multiple interests within a single field. Students may also have more room to pursue a minor if desired.
“To be honest, I’m excited I don’t have to take as many foreign language classes. If you want to get a minor, you can also. You’re getting skills for your degree and minors look great,” said Jenna Garner, a freshman communication major.
While feedback has been largely positive, Waddell said some students, especially seniors, have voiced concerns. Garner also said students might miss having more structured elective categories if they did choose to leave the regular curriculum.
The new curriculum will take effect in Fall 2026, giving students the option to stay on their current track or transition to the new track. Students are encouraged to contact their advisors with any questions or concerns.
Students can also contact [email protected], or Waddell at [email protected] or call (985) 549-5060 for more information on the new concentrations.
