About Us
The Department of Communication, which is in the College of Fine and Applied Arts at Appalachian State University, is currently one of the largest majors on campus, with over 800 students. We offer concentrations in advertising, communication studies, electronic media/broadcasting, journalism, and public relations.
Our department has an internship program to give students the opportunity to acquire practical work experience in the field for which they are preparing. Students are given one semester hour of credit for every 40 hours of work they do at their internship. Each intern is supervised by a faculty advisor, who meets with the student and the student's supervisor to discuss progress and potential.
Several departmental scholarships are available to students. Scholarships and grants from outside sources are also advertised for students to pursue.
Graduates of our department work in a wide range of positions in media, corporate, agency, government, and nonprofit organizations. We encourage our alumni to stay in touch, because they are a valuable connection to the work world. Alumni can serve on the Alumni Board and often come back to guest lecture in classes. If this sounds interesting to you, check out the Alumni page.
Several student organizations are active in the Department. These include the Forensics Union, the Ad Club, the Public Relations Student Society of America, the Society of Professional Journalists, WASU (the student-run campus radio station), the National Broadcasting Society, and APP.COM. Check out their pages for more information on how you can get involved.
Message from the Chair
Dr. Janice Pope, Interim Chair
In the upcoming year, we will continue to revise our curriculum to meet the demands of a converging media and seek support for the new Beasely Broadcasting Complex in the Old Depot Building, including funding for renovations to the facility and equipment needs.
Our Alumni Council and Communication Professional Advisory Board continue to help us keep our program on the cutting edge of the field of communication. Both of these groups are vital to our ability to provide the best education possible to our students. They keep us informed of changes in the field, provide an outlet for internships and job opportunities for our students, and help us find funding for the numerous projects within the department.
If you are a graduate of the department, please come by and say hello. If you are a prospective student, please come by and let us introduce ourselves. We are moving forward; come be a part of the excitement!
