Department of Mass Communication

Return to: Departments

To Be Named, Head
Faculty: Buchanan, Kay, Luster, Markstrom, Standley, Stephens, Stratton, Veuleman, Vinson

Purpose

The Department of Mass Communication supports the educational goals of the University and the College of Liberal Arts through excellence in teaching, scholarly achievement in mass communication, close working relationships with professional media organizations, and appropriate service to the university and community. 

The Department educates students in the processes and techniques of mass communication preparing them for socially responsible careers in broadcasting, public relations, and journalism.

The department also offers programs in Speech, Speech Education—Grades 6-12, and a concentration in Professional Sales Communication. 

Students majoring in Mass Communication who will seek admission to law school should see the recommendations under “Preparation for Law School” and should ask their academic advisors to integrate the recommended courses into their curricula.

The Speech communication curriculum is designed to build a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge and research and communication skills. Courses focus on the development of 1) A clear understanding of the theoretical foundations from which human communication can be understood; 2) Research skills using surveys, focus groups, interviews, content analyses, and experimental design; 3) Effective communication skills in such contexts as public speaking, interpersonal situations, business and professional environments, communication in the workplace, public relations campaigns, and the classroom.

Participation in extracurricular activities such as Debate Council, Public Relations, Focus, Students Society of American, and Lamda Pi Eta provide valuable experiences.

The Speech Education—Grades 6-12 curriculum is designed to prepare students for the teaching profession. Students interested in teacher education programs should see the department for advising.

Grade Requirements

Courses in Mass Communication or Speech must have a grade of “C” or higher to be used as completed prerequisites or applied towards graduation requirements. Courses transferred to McNeese State University from another institution must satisfy the same requirements. All students in the Department of Mass Communication (including minors and associates) must receive a grade of “C” or higher in English 101, 102, or equivalent courses. See the department for advising.

Return to: Departments