Undergraduate Programs
B.S. in Communication
The Language, Literature, and Communication (LL&C) curriculum provides an interdisciplinary approach to the study of communication in today's "information society." The B.S. in Communication provides both a theoretical foundation in basic communication principles, and a hands-on education in applying those principles to communicating in a world driven by technology and new media.
To learn more about the B.S. in Communication at Rensselaer, please use our automated Inquiry Wizard. You can request further information be delivered to you as email attachments or by postal mail. You can also use the inquiry system to send an email directly to Kathy Colman, LL&C Recruitment Coordinator.
Degree Requirements
To earn a B.S. in Communication, students must take at least 124 total credit hours as follows:
- Major Requirements:
(LL&C Core, LL&C electives)
- H&SS Core Requirements:
- Math/Science Core Requirements:
- Open Electives:
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- 44 credit hours
- 24 credit hours
- 24 credit hours
- 32 credit hours
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The department also offers several programs of study that are more specialized than the general Communication degree, and they have more extensive and specific requirements. Students can take a general B.S. in Communication degree with a Concentration in Graphic Design: Theory, Research, Practice; and they can obtain a Certificate in Communication Design.
Students can also take a dual major in Design, Innovation & Society and Communication (DIS/COMM).
All Communication students must take the following courses (16 credit hours):
Humanities and Social Sciences Core
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Students must take 24 credits from Institute Humanities and Social Sciences courses, and must take at least one course at the 4000 level.
For complete information, please refer to:
 H&SS Core Program
Students must take 24 credits from Institute Math and Science courses in physical, life, and engineering sciences, including at least eight credit hours of mathematics.
For complete information, please refer to:
Science Core Program
Students must take 28 credit hours in Language, Literature, and Communication electives (courses prefixed with COMM, LANG, LITR, or WRIT).
LL&C offers students different tracks of study that target areas of expertise within the Department and provide coherent sets of courses to give students breadth and depth within a subject area. Tracks are recommendations for elective courses that fit together well; they are not requirements.
In addition, 32 additional credits will be taken as open electives (classes in any subject).
Media and Culture Track - 28 credit hours
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For the student who wants to understand how film, television, video, photography, print, and new media shape our global culture. Suggested courses include (but are not limited to) to the following 4-credit courses:
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Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Track - 28 credit hours
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For the student who is interested in designing and developing computer systems that are effective and easy for people to use. Emphasis is on principles of usability, user-centered design, prototyping, and evaluation of products and product interfaces. Suggested courses include (but are not limited to) to the following 4-credit courses:
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Professional Writing and Presentation Track - 28 credit hours
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For the student who is interested in developing the ability to write professionally and to create effective multimedia presentations in any chosen field. Suggested courses include (but are not limited to) to the following 4-credit courses:
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Literature and Expression Track - 28 credit hours
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For the student interested in the study and appreciation of literature. Suggested courses include (but are not limited to) to the following 4-credit courses:
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Languages and Culture Track - 28 credit hours
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For the student who is wants to incorporate intensive language study (Chinese, Japanese, French, Spanish) and cultural experience into his/her professional career. Suggested courses include (but are not limited to) to the following:
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- Language Study (at least 3 consecutive courses in one language; could take up to 6 courses with a second language)
- Language and Culture (COMM-4620)
- Courses in Culture Areas (up to 2 courses taken at Rensselaer or another college)
- Study Abroad or Internship Abroad
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Design Studio Track - 28 credit hours
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For the student who is interested is acquiring the practical skills and theoretical foundation necessary for employment in graphic design and other professional communication fields. Suggested courses include (but are not limited to) to the following 4-credit courses:
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Open Electives - 32 credit hours
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LL&C students may wish to take open electives in the following disciplines:
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- Computer Science
Courses in programming, software design, human-machine interface, and graphics.
- Electrical, Computer, and Systems Engineering
Courses in graphics, multimedia, and design.
- Economics
Courses in technological and managerial concerns.
- Management and Technology
Courses in entrepreneurship, marketing, and international business.
- Philosophy
Courses in the philosophy of technology and artificial intelligence.
- Psychology
Courses in general psychology, human factors in design, sensation and perception, and visual cognition and design.
- Science and Technology Studies
Courses in information, society, and culture; laws, values, and public policy; politics of design; and ethical issues in computing.
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Students may also wish to pursue a Minor.
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