Long Island Department of Communication Studies

Follow your passion for clear and effective communication.

The ability to communicate effectively has become a sought-after skill in virtually every organization and industry. In fact, in today’s competitive job market, employers identify effective communication as an essential skill in selecting successful candidates. The Bachelor of Arts degrees in Communication Studies open doors to successful careers in education, social media, speech therapy, law enforcement, entertainment, marketing, government, business and more.

The SJNY Communication Studies Department offers two B.A. degrees, a B.A. in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, and a B.A. in Communication Studies. Students in the Communication Studies major also have the option to personalize their degree with a specialization in one of the following three dynamic areas: Communication Studies and Media, Organizational and Professional Communication, or Theatre.

SJNY also offers a dual-degree in which students can obtain their B.A. and a Master’s degree in just five years.

In both of our B.A. degree programs, as well as our minors, SJNY students work closely with our roster of dedicated faculty who are accomplished experts, skilled researchers and working professionals in their chosen fields. Through a personalized selection of courses, a vibrant campus-community of engaged students, and curriculum-related extracurriculars and internships, students will graduate with the skills necessary for success.

Julia W. ’26

B.A. in Communication Studies

"One of my favorite things about the Communication Studies major at SJNY is the variety of classes you can take. Some that I've especially enjoyed are Voice and Diction, Nonverbal Communication, Interpersonal Communication, and Intro to Human Communication. I’ve loved all the courses I have taken so far!"

Featured Students

The Long Island Communications Studies Experience

Extensive Career Options: Specializations allow you to personalize your course of study, leading to success in diverse fields such as education, business, marketing, healthcare, media, public relations, the performing and creative arts, law, sales and more.

Enhanced Expertise: Communication Studies majors pair well with other subjects, including minors in psychology, business administration, marketing, sociology, English and political science.

Research and Internship Opportunities: SJNY’s program supports students in conducting, developing and presenting research, as well as in engaging in practical work-related experiences while completing internships in their professional field.

Communication Studies Programs

Majors
Prepare for your future.

Communication Studies Major

The B.A. in Communication Studies prepares students to either transition to graduate study or move directly into the workplace in fields such as public relations, education, media, law, entertainment, marketing, counseling, business, and more.

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Curriculum

Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Major

A B.A. in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from St. Joseph’s University prepares students first for a top graduate program, then for one of two distinct careers paths: Diagnosing and treating individuals with hearing loss and hearing-related disorders as an audiologist, or evaluating and providing therapy to people with a wide range of communication disorders as a speech-language pathologist.

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Minors
Broaden your academic experience.

Communication Studies and Media Minor

This minor enables students to craft a versatile skill set for effective communication through diverse media and digital platforms. Courses in interpersonal communication and public speaking coupled with media literacy and production, providing a solid foundation in practical communication and media literacy skills to communicate effectively.

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Theatre and Communication Studies Minor

Students in this minor have opportunities to personalize their course selection in this minor to explore many aspects of theatre as it relates to their unique individual interests and career aspirations. Coursework provides students with the skills necessary for success in the quick pace of the professional world while providing multiple paths to the practice and study of confident public speaking skills, quick thinking and creative expression.

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Organizational and Professional Communication Minor

This minor focuses on effective communication in professional settings, enabling students to fine-tune their practical skills while fostering an understanding of how communication operates within formal organizations. Combining Business and Communication classes, the coursework for this minor facilitates the development of key skills in areas including verbal and written communication, interpersonal interactions, and intercultural competence, all of which enables students to communicate clearly, ethically, and confidently in professional settings.

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Speech and Communication Studies Minor

Students in this minor take three required courses (SPC 102, SPC 115 and SPC 204 or SPC 218), and select an additional three elective courses on an individual basis and with departmental advisement, to complement their unique specific interests within the fields of communication studies and speech language pathology and audiology. This minor complements any major by enhancing presentation abilities, gaining leadership skills, and analyzing differences in communication.

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Concentration for Child Study
Boost your already-impressive teaching résumé.

Speech Communication Concentration for Child Study

Students are encouraged to enhance their Child Study major with a concentration in “Speech Communication.” This concentration supports the development of speech-related awareness and effective classroom communication. Education students may also consider a double major, in either Communication Studies or Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology, to enhance their skills and marketability.

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Dual Degrees
Get a B.A. and a Master’s degree in just five years.

Long Island B.A. in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology/M.A. in Infant Toddler Early Childhood Special Education Dual Degree

Earn a B.A. in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and an M.A. in Infant Toddler Early Childhood Special Education from St. Joseph’s University, saving time and money with our five-year dual degree as you prepare for a rewarding and lifelong career.

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