Why major in Communications?
Penn State Altoona’s bachelor of arts degree in Communications provides the experience, knowledge, and skills you need to become a versatile media practitioner. The program emphasizes a balance of theory and practice as you develop hands-on skills (in a state-of-the-art production facility) while understanding the many complexities of today’s media landscape. The Communications major is a good fit for students interested in a career in media and those considering graduate school.
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Program Highlights
One of the best reasons to major in Communications at Penn State Altoona is the faculty. They have real-world experience in the field and bring that knowledge to you in the classroom. Their many accolades and accomplishments include published works, awards in documentary film and audio production, field production for NFL broadcasts, head of an international communication program in Kuwait, and editors of major scholarly journals.
Many opportunities exist to gain practical experience and build a portfolio of work. Communications students have produced media content for United Way of Blair County, YMCA, and PA Greenway Alliance. In addition, through internship opportunities, students have worked at CMT in Nashville, the National Football League, Major League Baseball, Comedy Central, and many local organizations. Other students have gained media work experience with local newspapers, community access television, and regional publications such as the Pittsburgh Sporting News, while another student-authored his own book while in the program.
Graduates of the Communications program excel in the job market and graduate school. The student acceptance rate among graduate programs exceeds 90%. In addition, graduates have achieved distinction in a variety of areas. Recent alumni have won Emmy Awards, the prestigious Murrow Award, and several AP awards.
