Communication
Gain a deep understanding of Culture and Social Influence. Develop skills for your career, your relationships, and community impact.
Communication, Culture and Social Influence Concentration, B.S./B.A.
The major in Communication with a concentration in Culture and Social Influence (CSI) equips students to understand communication in various significant social contexts. Through hands-on experiences and critical analysis, students learn the dynamics of communication that influence family and romantic relationships, intercultural interactions, rhetoric, and public dialogue. Classes in CSI utilize and build on concepts, theories, and methods of study covered in core communication classes while developing a deeper focus on identities, culture, and power. These experiences prepare students for success in a variety of fields including public relations, community engagement, ministry, politics, diversity consulting, business administration, college admissions, and many others. Students will also be prepared for the option of graduate studies. CSI graduates apply their analytical and critical thinking strengths along with improved verbal and written communication skills to make a difference in their workplaces and communities.
News Briefs
Applying Knowledge
Dianne Guerrier studied in France! The Communication major worked part-time for the National Guard while taking classes at MTSU. As a senior, she participated in a study-abroad program and took classes in Caen, France. "Communication Studies has given me the ability to communicate confidently and effectively by providing me with the knowledge of diverse cultures. Classes, such as "Argumentation" and "Tradition and Change in Middle East Communication," have allowed me to face my fears, challenge myself, and overcome my uncertainties. I am ready to travel the world and meet people from different cultural backgrounds!" Diane realized she could have a great time expanding her horizons and learning important career skills.
News Briefs
Applying Knowledge
Dianne Guerrier studied in France! The Communication major worked part-time for the National Guard while taking classes at MTSU. As a senior, she participated in a study-abroad program and took classes in Caen, France. "Communication Studies has given me the ability to communicate confidently and effectively by providing me with the knowledge of diverse cultures. Classes, such as "Argumentation" and "Tradition and Change in Middle East Communication," have allowed me to face my fears, challenge myself, and overcome my uncertainties. I am ready to travel the world and meet people from different cultural backgrounds!" Diane realized she could have a great time expanding her horizons and learning important career skills.
Communication, Culture and Social Influence Concentration, B.S./B.A.
Employer List
Alumni Success
Networking is a critical component for a career. Join professional networks and engage with people who can help you open doors to opportunity.
-CJ Kiekens, Class of '10, Deputy Director of Revenue at Chicago Park District
Take the time to reflect. We as a collective are always growing and changing. It’s important to keep a good sense of who you are and what you’re capable of. Any employer worth working for/with is going to want to know who you are as an individual. The best way to show someone who you are is by being your genuine and authentic self. I’m a big believer in how we may only discover our genuine & authentic selves through reflection. So, take time, think, reflect, do some journaling if that’s your thing. The most important person who has to know who you are first, before anyone else truly can, is you!
- Tony Chioccio, Class of '21
Although class group projects can be frustrating sometimes, they actually do a really good job preparing you to deal with coworkers. So, you should still try your best to make it a good project and work well with your teammates!
-Rebekah Witemeyer, Class of '23, Student Services Specialist at Nashville State Community College
Internship Opportunities
Internships are optional, however, they are a great opportunity for students to gain experience, gain course credit, and potentially earn money! We partner with several employers in the Middle Tennessee area, offering paid and unpaid internships in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. Some of our partners include Schneider Electric, Sisters Maid to Clean, Project Transformation, the Tennessee Small Business Development Center, Youth Empowerment through Arts & Humanities (YEAH!), PixelFlex, First Priority of America, Exchange Media Group, THEC, Volunteer Tennessee, Greenhouse Ministries, Legal Aid of Middle Tennessee, Kickstarter, Dollar General, Tractor Supply Co, Tennessee Department of the Treasury, the Tennessee Justice Center, the Country Music Hall of Fame, United Way, Nashville Industry Fund, Rolling Hills Community Church, the SPCA, Lee Company, the Margaret H. Ordoubadian University Writing Center, as well as an internship with the Department of Communication Studies.
If students want to stay up to date on internship offerings in our department, they can follow us on LinkedIn, MTSU Communication Studies Department, where internship opportunities are frequently posted. Students can earn 3 course credit hours through the COMM 4900 course when participating in an unpaid internship. If students have questions or interests in taking COMM 4900, please contact Dr. Deanne Priddis at [email protected]. Additionally, students should speak with their academic advisor to see what will work best for them!
Helpful Links
MTSU’s Career Development Center
MTSU offers a comprehensive Career Development Center that serves students throughout the full student experience and beyond. They collaborate with faculty and staff to equip students with the tools to be marketable to the world of work and continuing education.
Students can schedule an appointment or check online resources and job boards at mtsu.edu/career.
Students can find current internship opportunities by talking to faculty and visiting the University job and internship board called Handshake.
Wondering what you can do with your major? Check out our What Can I Do with A Major In guides.
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