Applied Communication Two-Year Plan

The Applied Communication accelerated online degree completion program facilitates the fulfillment of the requisite major-specific credit hours within a 21-month timeframe. This program equips students for a lucrative career within the contemporary information economy. Whether aspiring to orchestrate communication strategies for non-profit entities or spearhead public relations and social media initiatives for major corporations, a major in the Applied Communication accelerated online degree will earn students a Bachelor's degree in Communication, and is instrumental in preparing individuals for gratifying professional careers.

The Applied Communication accelerated online degree program offers a course roadmap that integrates theoretical frameworks with practical, real-world applications. Students will explore core areas such as interpersonal communication, sports communication, media studies, public relations, digital media, organizational communication, and strategic communication. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that students gain a complete understanding of the importance of various areas of communication and their impact on society.

Throughout the program, students will engage in hands-on learning experiences, including internships, collaborative projects, and real-world case studies. These opportunities are designed to enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning skills, which are essential for success in any communication-related field, or for employment in general. Whether you are interested in pursuing a career in journalism, corporate communication, social media management, or public relations, the Applied Communication accelerated online degree program provides the tools and knowledge you need to excel.

For individuals who have accomplished the Illinois Articulation Initiative General Education Core Curriculum or possess an associate's degree, the Applied Communication accelerated online degree program presents an expedited avenue for degree completion within a two-year span. All courses are conveniently conducted online in an accelerated eight-week format to accommodate students' busy schedules.

All students must complete Philosophy 150 at a Religious Studies Elective at SXU and complete a total of 120 hours (which can include up to 90 hours of transfer credit).

The outlined academic plan below serves as a guideline for expeditiously completing the Bachelor of Communication Fast-Track program in two years or less. Those lacking prerequisite courses may avail themselves of the opportunity to enroll in the requisite courses, all of which are offered online in an accelerated format. Moreover, avenues for the recognition of life experience credit are extended, facilitating the attainment of a Bachelor's degree in Communication.

The eight-week, online asynchronous courses in the program are as follows:

Required:

• COMM 200: Perspectives on Human Communication
• COMM 205: Mediated Message Production
• COMM 211: Intro to Mass Communication
• COMM 333: Communication Topics and Problems (A Capstone Course)

Major Electives: Select any six communication courses in consultation with your advisor.

 

Newswriting and Reporting, Communicating with Social Media