Rogers State University has received initial approval to offer a new communication arts option for its bachelor’s degree in communications.
The University of Oklahoma Board of Regents, which is RSU’s governing body, approved the degree option during its meeting today in Ardmore. The proposal next will be sent to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education for consideration.
For its bachelor’s degree in communication, RSU currently offers degree options in radio/television and corporate communications, both of which provide very specific courses of study, said Dr. Frank Elwell, dean of RSU’s School of Liberal Arts. The new communication arts option will provide RSU students with a more general and flexible program for their communications studies, Elwell said.
The communication arts option builds upon the foundation coursework of the bachelor of arts in communication, with 15 required hours in voice and articulation, acting, mass media communication, communication in organizations and script writing. Students may then choose nine hours from courses such as radio-television announcing, media sales and advertising, sports broadcasting, media management, women and minorities in media, communication skills for managers and professionals, media and politics, and an internship in either broadcasting or corporate communication.
Dr. Jeffery Gentry, department head of RSU’s Department of Communications and Fine Arts, said communication skills are in high demand nationally because employers are looking for those who can demonstrate the ability to communicate verbally and via the written word.
Gentry noted the program is well suited for a wide array of student interests including pre-law, ministry and more. The program also should attract students who want to be more engaged in RSU’s theatre program, which began last fall under the direction of Dr. David Blakely.
For more information, contact the Department of Communications and Fine Arts at (918) 343-7740.