Communication
About
Communication
Degree: BA
Campus: Columbus
College: Arts and Sciences
There is no greater tool in the world than successful communication in all forms—written, spoken and conceptual. The Ohio State University’s School of Communication provides students with the training and skills to harness the power of communication. The program emphasizes the power and influence of communication on society and equips students with practical and analytical skills and knowledge related to communication principles—how to understand audiences, shape messages and interact with individuals and technologies. Graduates of the program have a broad knowledge of contemporary communication challenges and are equipped to apply their knowledge and understanding to a variety of practical situations.
Get started
Upon admission to the university, students interested in the communication major typically begin in the pre-major program in the School of Communication. As pre-majors, students complete introductory course work that prepares them to apply to the major. To be considered for admission to the major and specialization, students must complete two pre-major courses, COMM 1100 and COMM 1101, and earn a grade of C- or better in both. Find pre-major information at comm.osu.edu/undergraduate/pre-major/declaring.
Admission to the communication major is competitive and based on cumulative grade point average, pre-major course completion and enrollment capacity. Select first-year students at the Columbus campus are offered direct admission to the major program based on their high school academic profile. Eligibility is deterÂmined during the Ohio State Undergraduate Admissions application process and eligible students are notified by the School of Communication by April 15.
Curriculum
Students pursuing a communication major will complete a specialization within one of three areas of study: communication analysis and engagement, communication technology, or strategic communication. Each specialization is comprised of 34–35 credit hours of course work.
Students in all three areas of study will take communication research methods along with an experiential learning course, which are critical foundations for careers in communication. Remaining courses in the major are chosen from those that define the various specializations, including electives that allow students to take course work to broaden their knowledge in communication issues.
Internship
Communication students can earn academic credit for communication or news-related experiences through COMM 4191. Students have interned at a variety of businesses and organizations, including media outlets (news stations, radio, magazines and newspapers), sports organizations, health care establishments, nonprofit organizations, public relations and marketing firms, political groups and organizations, local businesses, and Ohio State.
For more internship information, visit comm.osu.edu/undergraduate/internships.
Honors and Scholars
High-ability communication students may be interested in the College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program. In this program, students construct an enhanced curriculum of rigorous honors and upper-division courses and course sequences, honors seminars, and a minor or second major.
Students may also be interested in the Media, Marketing and Communication Scholars program. This program focuses on communication in our society and the critical role of technology in today’s world. Students can explore careers through internships with practicing professionals in fields such as news production, media management, advertising and public relations.
Research
The School of Communication has leading researchers in the areas of health communication, public opinion, political communication, communication technology and mass media effects. Students can get involved in the research programs of faculty and graduate students as undergraduate research assistants.
Student organizations
The following student organizations are associated with the School of Communication and advised by its faculty:
- The Society of Professional Journalists student chapter at Ohio State has existed for more than 100 years. The purpose of this organization is to be a forum for intellectual exchange about issues related to journalism and mass communication. Student chapters seek to foster relationships between professionals and future journalists.
- The National Association of Black Journalists - Ohio State is a professional organization and advocacy group that seeks to support the experiences and advancement of journalists of color and media professionals globally. This organization is also appropriate for those who have an interest in telling the stories of marginalized communities.
- The Public Relations Student Society of America meets biweekly to hold educational programs, visit local and regional public relations firms and media outlets, and provide opportunities for social interaction with students of like interests and career goals.
- The PRactice is a PRSSA-accredited, student-run public relations firm that provides a professional environment for students to excel and learn skills pertaining to the public relations industry.
- Kappa Tau Alpha is an honorary for students planning careers in journalism and mass communication. Kappa Tau Alpha supports and promotes the academic achievement of its members and sponsors two annual scholarships for journalism and communication students at Ohio State.
- The Black Advertising & Strategic Communication Association is a partnership between students, faculty and professionals intended to develop and prepare students of color for careers in advertising, public relations and marketing.
Possible careers
Students in communication technology are prepared for careers as managers of technology-based communication campaigns, social media specialists, usability analysts, online content developers, and web and multimedia designers.
Graduates of strategic communication train for careers in business and management or as communication specialists in organizations. They can find careers as public relations specialists, communication specialists, marketing, communication campaign and information managers, and as communication consultants.
Graduates from the communication analysis and engagement specialization are prepared to become critical thinkers and effective problem solvers for careers in both the public and private
sectors, such as in business management, government relations, or as communication specialists in a health or political organization. The specialization also provides excellent preparation for graduate school or law school.
Requirements
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Fee Information
How to Apply
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus