Communication Studies

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Carleton’s Communication Studies program allows you to explore the role and development of communication in modern society. Students in the program can declare one of three concentrations. Image, Politics and Persuasion examines the impacts of marketing, advertising and public relations on political, cultural and economic life. Media Industries and Institutions addresses issues of technology, law and regulation, entertainment and other facets of media operations in both Canadian and international contexts. Communication and Identity examines the relationship of communication and media to such topics as nation, gender, youth, race and diaspora.

Our location in Ottawa offers multiple advantages. As the seat of the federal government, Ottawa is the decision-making centre for Canadian communication policies and regulations. Organizations such as the CBC, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) and Canadian Heritage are located here, as well as national cultural institutions such as the Museum of Civilization, and can provide valuable employment and research opportunities.

We offer Honours, Combined Honours and minor programs in Communication Studies. Students in the Journalism program can combine their studies with the Communication Studies program for a Bachelor of Journalism (Combined Honours). A co-op option is also available for students in the Communication Studies Honours program.

From Marshall McLuhan to social media, the Communication Studies program at Carleton combines a thorough understanding of theories of communication with an in-depth analysis of the presence of communication in every facet of our world. I have been able to gain valuable knowledge in all areas of communication, while also specializing in a concentration in the area of image, politics, and persuasion. Through Carleton’s capital location, I have also been able to gain valuable work and volunteer experience within the city of Ottawa. Within the communications program, I found a supportive community of both staff and students, making my experience that much more enriching!

Cailey McCormack Fourth-year student in Communication Studies and Human Rights