Communication & Media Studies
Investigate the relationship between culture and communication in our globally diverse society through the Communication & Media Studies program at RWU. Our students learn how to apply their writing, research and problem-solving skills to public advocacy and building community across cultures, cultivating a strong sense of social justice and civil responsibility that prepares them for work and life in an ever-changing world.
Degree Requirements
Student Learning Outcomes
While matriculating in the Communication & Media Studies program, students:
- Learn theories, models, and concepts that investigate the relationship between culture and communication.
- Develop research skills relevant to the study of culture and communication.
- Cultivate a concern for communication ethics, social justice, and civic responsibility.
- Understand the dynamics related to communication technologies and new media and develop appropriate applied skills.
- Refine and foster writing skills, critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
A statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The Communication & Media Studies program (CMS) focuses on communication as a fundamental and all-encompassing human activity involving the construction and sharing of messages and various meaning-making activities in our local and global contexts. In the classroom, we build supportive environments where diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential elements, and where communities of learners commit to upholding the inherent dignity of each other.
Incorporating Real-World Lessons
Kamille Gentles-Peart, Ph.D. Associate ProfessorAt RWU our faculty incorporate real world topics that underscore classroom lessons, making the work both relevant and impactful. Dr. Gentles-Peart strives to make her classwork applicable for all students.
Read full storyInternship Opportunities
- Providence Tourism Bureau
- Arnold Advertising
- RDW Group Advertising
- WPRI Channel 12
- Newport Tennis Hall of Fame
- East Bay Newspapers
- Hasbro, RI
- Tango Pix
- RI International Film Festival
Employers
- WCVB-TV
- ESPN
- Associated Press
- East Bay Newspapers
- Newport Tennis Hall of Fame
- Stop & Shop
- Hasbro, RI
- Olender Media
- Fama PR
- Mequoda Daily and Library
- Houghton Mifflin
- Citizens Bank
Graduate Study
- Emerson College
- Boston University
- Boston College
- University of Rhode Island
- Syracuse University
- Bentley University
- New York University
Clubs & Organizations
American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) is the oldest and largest professional membership organization for design and is now known simply as “AIGA, the professional association for design.”
Graphic Design Club is focused on the art of Graphic Design as well as visiting design firms and hosting speakers to discuss topics pertaining to this field.
Lambda Pi Eta, Alpha Gamma Ro is the National Communication Association's official Honor Society, This honor society recognizes, fosters, and rewards outstanding scholastic achievement while stimulating interest in the communication discipline.
Phi Beta Delta, Epsilon Rho Phi Beta Delta is the honor society for those engaged in International, Intercultural and Global scholarship, be they student, faculty or staff. The organization is unique on campus as the only honor society whose welcomes members from all parts of the University Community. Epsilon Rho, the Roger Williams University chapter of Phi Beta Delta, was formed in 2006. In May 2008, it held its first awarding of Honors Cords to graduating seniors at the University’s awards banquet.
Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) is the foremost organization for students interested in public relations and communications. We seek to advance the public relations profession by nurturing generations of future professionals. We advocate rigorous academic standards for public relations education, the highest ethical principles and diversity in the profession.
The Society for Professional Journalists (SPJ) at Roger Williams University is the only student chapter in Rhode Island proper. Our Journalism students have won national awards from SPJ for their streaming coverage of the 2012 National and local elections.
Juris Doctor/Bachelor's 3+3 Accelerated Program (J.D.)
Earn your bachelor’s and juris doctor degrees in six years through RWU’s Three-Plus-Three Law program. You’ll get a jump-start on your J.D. by integrating law courses into your undergraduate studies and completing undergraduate requirements in your first year of law school. Accepted students will take first-year courses in the School of Law along with legal electives to fulfill undergraduate fourth-year requirements. Interested students must indicate their intent to pursue a 3+3 pathway early in their undergraduate studies for curriculum planning and advising.