Bachelor of Science - Communication (optional co-op)

Program Description

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Bachelor of Science in Communication requires students to integrate knowledge of science and technology with practice in communication. In this program, students learn how scientists think, how they frame research questions, and how they use various methodologies to pursue their goals. Communication students additionally practice gathering, analyzing, and disseminating scientific and technological information to a variety of audiences. A significant element of the program is the capstone experience, an internship in which students put theory into practice.

A typical first year might include core courses like Science and Technology Communication and Introduction to News Writing, plus courses in mass communication, law and ethics, and media relations, along with elective courses such as digital photography or web design.

The Daytona Beach area itself offers students opportunities to work in the communications field while they complete their degree, with nearby companies such as Daytona International Speedway, the Volusia Health Department and various local businesses and nonprofit organizations.

The program’s focused, yet flexible, course of study requires students to hone specialized communication skills and positions them to enter career paths such as

• Communicating science information to specific and general audiences through a variety of mass media,
• Representing companies and organizations through media relations, using written, oral, and visual media,
• Communicating news to general audiences through print and electronic media, and
• Communicating weather-related information to general audiences as broadcast meteorologists.

By learning how scientists think and work, students develop skills to communicate scientific and technological information to a variety of audiences accurately and effectively. Students in this program have gone on to work as professional communicators at NASA, Boeing, Lockheed-Martin, Delta Airlines, the U.S. Department of State, Daytona International Speedway and many others.