Communication BA - Academic Experience

Since 2005, UB's Department of Communication has offered a Bachelor of Arts (BA) Communication program in Singapore, in partnership with the Singapore Institute of Management/SIM University.

The communication degree program offered in Singapore is comparable in all respects to the one offered in Buffalo and has the same admission and degree requirements. Communication faculty from UB, other U.S. universities, and SIM teach in the Singapore program.

Students enrolled in the Singapore program undertake three semesters of course work per calendar year and can complete their degrees within three years. They have the option of completing one or more of their semesters of study at UB.

Similarly, UB Communication students in the United States are welcome to study abroad in Singapore at the Singapore Institute of Management/SIM University. Please see your advisor for details.

Internships - The department's internship program works with businesses and firms across the state, the country, and internationally. The program offers two courses: one of which is designed for minors or intended majors which requires students have to have completed COM 101 – Principles of Communication with a minimum GPA of a 2.000, and 30 credit hours with an overall GPA of 2.000 or better, and have approval from the director of internships.

The second internship course is restricted to accepted majors with a minimum Communication GPA of a 2.500, at least 60 credit hours completed with an overall GPA of 2.000 or better, and approval from the director of internships.

Independent Study - Seniors are encouraged to arrange for independent study in aspects of communication research under the guidance of a faculty member to further supplement their studies and resume. Frequently, students arrange work with faculty members on research projects, thereby enhancing their research and statistical skills. Interested students must have a minimum 2.000 UB GPA and 2.500 COM GPA. Students must obtain permission from their advisor as well as the professor with whom they wish to work.

Capstone - The department also offers a capstone course that serves as the culminating and integrative experience for the degree program. The projects blend theory, research, and experiential learning.

Many students majoring in communication opt to study abroad for a semester (or more) under one of the programs offered through UB and the SUNY system. Opportunities exist to study abroad in numerous locations across the globe, and students who take part in these programs earn credit toward their degree while experiencing unique cultures, locations, and communities. These experiences are frequently life-changing and resume building. While individuals must apply to particular programs of interest, the application process is straightforward and assistance and further information is available via the Study Abroad Programs office located in 210 Talbert Hall. Communication majors have one of the highest rates of participation at UB in study abroad programs.

Communication Undergraduate Student Association

This organization serves several academic, social, and professional purposes. CUSA sponsors career information programs, invites speakers in communication-related areas to campus, fosters interactions between students and faculty through social events, and provides service to the community. For more information, visit the UB Student Association website.

Public Relations Student Society of America

The PRSSA is a nationally recognized organization in which students can practice their public relations skills as well as network with professionals all over the country. PRSSA is the student chapter of the professional association, Public Relations Society of America, which allows student members to have expert mentors in their field. Membership is great for building students' resumes and preparing for their future. For more information please contact buffaloprssa@yahoo.com.

Students who are accepted Communication majors with at least a 3.250 Communication GPA, 3.000 UB GPA, and have completed 60 credit hours (12 of which must be from UB Communication courses) may join the Lambda Pi Eta National Communication Honor Society. Students are notified mid-semester and are given the opportunity to join. An induction ceremony takes place each spring semester.

Students in the honors seminar, as well as those working on individual projects, often elect to participate in the annual Celebration of Academic Excellence, designed to recognize faculty and staff achievements as well as highlight undergraduate research projects and activities.