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Communication Studies BA

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  • Program Type

    Undergraduate Major

  • Delivery Type

    On Campus

Words are powerful. They shape our thoughts, influence our actions, and define our relationships. Our program believes in the transformative power of communication.

Our innovative curriculum equips you with the skills to express yourself confidently, lead effectively, and drive positive change in your community.

Gain the expertise to craft persuasive and ethical messages that resonate in today's dynamic world. Our students understand the impact of words on social, political, and cultural landscapes, and are prepared to wield this influence for the greater good. Discover how your words can make a difference.

Students out at the lawn presenting their projects.

An Education that Speaks Volumes

You'll gain a solid academic foundation with courses on topics ranging from public opinion and propaganda to politics and the media. You'll also learn the art of debate, persuasion, and informational speaking through forensics courses.

Major Options

  • Students gathered around a fire simulation table.

    Organizational Communication

    Master written and verbal skills to be the voice of an organization with external and internal audiences. Develop, maintain, and implement communication strategies to work toward a collective goal.

  • California state capitol building

    Communication and Public Affairs

    Whether you see a future in the halls of Congress or the boardroom of a nonprofit, you will learn to influence public policy, build relations with the public and the media, and speak about a wide variety of issues.

Forge Your Path

Open the door to a world of diverse career paths. From shaping public opinion as a communications director to driving change as a lobbyist, the skills you gain set you up for success in a range of dynamic and competitive roles. Our alumni cover almost every industry, including as:

  • Inside Sales Executive, Los Angeles Clippers
  • Training Coordinator, Communication & Organizational Development at Pandora
  • Communication Manager, Apple, Inc.
  • Recruiting Coordinator, Facebook
  • Human Resource Director, Boys & Girls Clubs of the North Valley
  • Chief Development Officer, The Child Abuse Prevention Center
Hockey coach standing next to a stack of hockey pucks in the shape of an S
I’ve never experienced community like I did in Chico [State]. I try to live my life with no regrets, but I do regret only going there for two years. That place is magic.
Ben Guerrero (Communication Studies, ’08)

Blending Theory and Practice

Don't just learn about your future—experience it firsthand. Explore career opportunities as you step on the competition stage, take on community service projects, and network with industry professionals.

  • The speech and debate class. Two students are sitting at desks in front of the class.

    Speech and Debate Team

    Strengthen your public speaking and debate skills on our nationally recognized team. Our team fosters a sense of community and belonging, as we work together to prepare for and compete in tournaments around the world.

  • Two students holding a voting information pamphlet.

    Service Learning and Civic Engagement Projects

    Use your communication expertise to engage with the community through activities like voter information and registration drives, as well as communication campaigns to promote services like Basic Needs.

  • Students arranged in order where they are standing in front of their partner inside of the classroom.

    Chico State Rookie Tournament

    This is the ideal place for beginners to engage in speech and debate formats, receive constructive feedback, and build confidence, all while making friends and earning college credits.

Find Your Community

  • Graduate standing in the middle with two staff membors in graduation memorabilia standing on each side.

    Lambda Pi Eta

    Join our honor society to get opportunities for academic recognition, networking, and professional development. We also host social events and activities that promote a sense of belonging.

  • Instructor is standing in front of a class giving a lecture.

    Students of Communication Studies Club

    Attend guest speaker sessions, career development workshops, and social events to help you connect with peers, faculty, and professionals in the field.

Discover Stories and More

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