Communication is the foundation that helps us form meaningful connections, build community,
and inspire others to engage with the world in new and exciting ways. It is through
authentic human connections and effective communication that large-scale societal
change is possible. In the Bachelor of Arts in Communication you will learn the science
behind how people communicate, and think critically about how communication shapes
and reinforces identities, cultures, and worldviews. You will blend social science
theory and research with practice, to design effective communication that unites people
rather than tears them apart. As engaged leaders, collaborators, and problem solvers
who are proficient in overcoming communication challenges, students become capable
of working across disciplines and industries to solve complex societal issues.
Become An Engaged Leader, Collaborator, and Problem Solver
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication will prepare you to:
Understand the role of communication in the formation of individual and cultural identities
and how those identities influence communication.
Demonstrate interpersonal competency in teamwork and collaboration.
Deliver audience-centered presentations adapted for the social and cultural context
in which they are delivered.
Conduct theoretically grounded research and scholarship in the field of communication.
Synthesize communication theories, perspectives, principles, and concepts.
Create high-quality, professional communication projects grounded in critical thinking
skills and research competencies.
Program Requirements and Coursework
An ideal double major or minor to complement STEM and health sciences majors.
Communication is an ideal double major or minor option for students in STEM and health
sciences majors looking to master communication competencies to advance their scientific
training and expertise. The Department of Communication is closely partnered with
the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science, a trusted global leader in science communication for over 15 years. Communication
majors and minors have direct access to coursework that integrates the Alda Method®, the Alda Center's signature communication training approach that delivers authentic,
human connections.
The major is especially designed to help students complete a variety of Stony Brook Curriculum (SBC) general education requirements within the major to increase efficiency in degree
completion. Students interested in a communication minor will gain fundamental communication
skills that will set them apart from other graduates on the job market.
Required Courses (24 credits)
COM 100: Introduction to Communication (SBS, HUM)
COM 120: Fundamentals of Public Speaking (SPK)
COM 202: Intercultural Communication (DIV, GLO)
COM 206: Interpersonal Communication
COM 314: Communication Research (SBS, CER)
COM 315: Communication Theory
COM 351: Team Collaboration (EXP+)
COM 495: Communication Senior Project (ESI, WRTD)
Elective Courses (12 credits)
Choose four of the following courses:
COM 346: Race, Class, and Gender in Media
COM 357: Health Communication
COM 358: Nonverbal Communication
COM 365: Communicating Science (SPK)
COM 386: Special Topics - Issues in Communication
COM 391: Studio Production
COM 400: Advanced Communication Research
COM 401: Organizational Communication
COM 402: Crisis Communication
COM 403: Strategic Communication
COM 404: Communication for Social Change and Public Advocacy
Engaging courses and a wide variety of elective offerings to fit your interests.
Review our course offerings to understand why communication makes an ideal second
major or minor, and find a plan of study that works best for you.
Our faculty are leading experts in the field of communication. Sample research areas
include climate change, message processing, health equity, advocacy, leadership, technology,
media, and AI.
Internships are available in a wide variety of fields. Students get support in finding,
preparing for, and succeeding in internships, both paid and for-credit, from faculty
and staff as well as the team at the Stony Brook University Career Center.
Academic advisors help you select courses you need to graduate on time and launch
your dream career. The SoCJ works closely with Stony Brook's Academic Transfer and
Advising Services (ATAS) to ensure a seamless advising experience from admission to
graduation.