Communications and Criminal Justice

Chair: Dr. Kelly Rhodes

Communications

Graduates who possess strong communication skills continue to have an edge in the job market today, according to researchers from the American Association of Colleges and Universities. The Saint Francis University Communications major may well possess the most sought-after training for today’s job seekers. Communications majors develop excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as strong analytical and critical thinking abilities. Our department’s graduates work in journalism, public relations, sports writing, business and all aspects of traditional and digital media. Our revised curriculum reflects the demands of the 21st century workplace, providing courses in communications theory, writing, editing, public relations, video and graphics production, research and public speaking. Our students experience hands-on learning through the use of a dedicated department graphics lab and television production studio. A required internship provides students with the real-world experience they need to become communications professionals.

All Communications majors complete 51 credits in media literacy, writing, speaking, social media, audio/video production, advertising, public relations, multi-platform journalism and an internship. Students may also add concentrations in Digital Media and Integrated Marketing Communications; both are highly recommended and designed to fit comfortably into the major coursework. Our majors are uniquely equipped to meet the demands of today’s employers with our flexible, yet comprehensive, program options.

The Digital Media Concentration equips students with the skills that today’s employers are looking for in the digital age. Coursework includes Desktop Publishing, Web Design, Audio/Video Production, Digital Image Editing, Social Media Strategies and Photojournalism.

The IMC concentration under the new Communications major provides critical knowledge of marketing, consumer behavior, international marketing and market research. These marketing skills will equip students with the ability to perform market analysis and develop strategic marketing concepts for a variety of clients and situations.

Criminal Justice

The purpose of the Criminal Justice program is to provide the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary for preparing for careers and/or future advanced study in the three principal career domains: law enforcement and security, courts and corrections. The program enables students to demonstrate an understanding of the origins of criminal behavior, society’s response to crime, and it consequences to our society through multiple perspectives. Students will possess the core competencies of successful practitioners in the Criminal Justice field, which include critical and analytical thinking, effective writing and speaking, research skills, a capacity for reflective and informed problem-solving and decision making, and to demonstrate human compassion and professional presence. Each graduate will leave with the highest sense of Franciscan values related to the respect and care for individual persons as well as a strong appreciation for social justice, equality, and diversity among citizens regardless of their economic standing in society.

Programs

Bachelor of Science

Non-Degree