Academics > Majors and Areas of Study > Business Administration and Accounting > Business Communication

The Curriculum l Career Opportunities l Special Opportunities l Major Requirements

Thiel's undergraduate degree progam in business communication is a unique major that combines two very strong fields of study. Employers in a wide range of endeavors are seeking individuals who can communicate effectively as well as understand the aspects of business. Many fields, such as marketing, advertising and public relations require a mix of skills. This innovative program can give Thiel business students an advantage over traditional majors in their preparation for the 21st century.

The business communication major seeks:

• To provide a broad understanding of the American business system and establish a base for good citizenship in our democratic society.
• To teach basic business principles and fundamental skills essential for success.
• To introduce student to the theories and practices of communication.
• To present communication as decision-making that must be guided by ethics and effectiveness.

The Curriculum
The business communication curriculum is nearly evenly divided between coursework in the major, in business communication electives and in a liberal arts core.

The liberal arts core is an essential component to the business communication major, in that it teaches students to think critically, communicate effectively, gain important quantitative skills, adapt to change in a global society and develop a well-rounded understanding of the physical and social sciences, humanities and fine arts. Students study business ethics to form personal beliefs about ethical responsibilities in business.

Required courses in the major teach students foundational knowledge and competencies required in business, including accounting, economics, statistics, data management and analysis, business law, finance, management and marketing.

Students can assemble elective courses in business around specific career or professional interests. Business communication majors are also encouraged to participate in coorperative work experience or internships at a network of businesses, corporations, government agencies and organizations that Thiel has assembled.

Career Opportunities
Skilled communicators are extremely important to the continued success of a business. Firms large and small must present themselves to the public through written and personal contact. Career fields exist within large multinational corporations in such areas as employee relations as well as external marketing. Increasingly, professional services agencies are using public media to explain their operations. Local, state and federal governments rely on communication with the public.

Special Opportunities
The combination of business and communication into one major is in itself a unique educational opportunity. In addition to course work, Thiel provides hands-on experience with the student newspaper, The Thielensian; the student radio station, WTGP-FM; and the yearbook, The Endymion. Managerial as well as staff positions allow students to gain experience in these different skills. Internships may be developed to allow practical application of course work. They give students opportunities to gain understanding of actual communication and business practices. Membership is open in honorary societies, Chi Eta Sigma for commerce, and the Society for Collegiate Journalists for communication.