About Communication (ba) in Stanford University

The mission of the undergraduate program in Communication is to expose students to a broad-based understanding of communication theory and research. Students in this major are expected to become familiar with the fundamental concerns, theoretical approaches, and methods of the field, and to acquire advanced knowledge in one or more sub-areas of the discipline. This is accomplished by several levels of study: a core curriculum; intermediate-level electives; and optional internships. Majors also have the opportunity to do advanced research projects. The department is committed to providing students with analytical and critical skills needed for success in graduate programs, professional schools, or immediate career entry.

The Department of Communication offers a Bachelor of Arts in Communication. Eligible students may also pursue a Bachelor of Arts with Honors. The department also offers a minor in Communication (COMMU-MIN).

The undergraduate curriculum is intended for liberal arts students who wish to develop an understanding of communication in society, drawing on the perspective of the social sciences. Undergraduates majoring in Communication are expected to become acquainted with the fundamental concerns, theoretical approaches and methods of the field, and to acquire advanced knowledge in one or more of the sub-areas of communication: institutions, processes, and effects.

While the department does not attempt to provide comprehensive practical training at the undergraduate level, the curriculum provides a diverse range of internship opportunities, including professional print journalism, some of which are funded by the department's Rebele Internship Program. The department is committed to providing students with analytical and critical skills for future success in graduate programs, professional schools, or immediate career entry.

The major is structured to provide several levels of study: a core curriculum intended to expose students to a broad-based understanding of communication theory and research, and a number of intermediate-level options and electives. Majors also have the opportunity to do advanced research in the form of an honors thesis.

Program Requirements

To be recommended for the B.A. degree in Communication, the student must complete at least 60 units (approximately 12 courses) in the department. No more than 10 units of course work outside of the department or transfer credit may be applied to meet department requirements.

Communication majors must receive a letter grade for all Communication courses unless they are offered only for satisfactory/no credit (S/NC), and must maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (C) in courses towards the major. Only courses with a grade of 'C-' or above count towards the major. Therefore, majors who receive a grade of 'D+' or below in one of the core courses must repeat the course.

Preparation for the Major

Before declaring the major, students must have completed or be concurrently enrolled in one of the following core courses. Completion of any of these courses counts toward major requirements.

COMM1 - Introduction to Communication OR COMM1B - Media, Culture, and Society

COMM106 - Communication Research Methods

COMM108 - Media Processes and Effects

How to Declare the Major in Communication

Students interested in declaring the major should apply via Axess and set up a meeting with the student services administrator in Building 120, Room 110A, or via Zoom.

The department expects undergraduate majors in the program to be able to demonstrate the following learning outcomes. These learning outcomes are used in evaluating students and the department's undergraduate program. Students are expected to demonstrate:

1. an understanding of core knowledge within the discipline of communication.

2. the ability to communicate ideas clearly and persuasively in writing.

3. the ability to analyze a problem and draw correct inferences using qualitative and/or quantitative analysis.

4. the ability to evaluate theory and critique research within the discipline of communication.

Academic qualification equivalents

• International applicants must provide official copies of academic records from all secondary or senior secondary schools, pre-university programs, and colleges and universities attended.
• Applicants should:Have all academics records sent directly from the schools (whenever possible).

English language requirements

• TOEFL (or TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition) with a minimum score of 100 and no less than a score of 20 in each section.
• IELTS (or IELTS Indicator) score of 6.5.
• PTE score of 68.

Stanford University Cost of Attendance

• The cost of attendance varies depending on the type of programme chosen and the student's personal preferences.
• Additional fees, transportation, and style of lodging can all have a big impact on overall costs at Stanford.
• The following is an estimated budget for international students interested in studying at Stanford University in the United States: