Communication studies

PROGRAM INFORMATION
Department: English Faculty: Humanities and Social Sciences
Campus: St. John's Length: Four years
University Calendar: Communication studies
Prospective students: Fill out our student inquiry form to receive updates from Memorial.


The study of media and communication addresses many contemporary questions. Who controls the media and why? What shape does communication take in today’s global world? What are the different media technologies and at whom are they targeted? Communication studies addresses these questions and others as it critically examines the role and development of communication in modern society.

Communication studies at Memorial

The communication studies major has been one of the fastest growing programs at Memorial since its introduction in 2010. As an interdisciplinary program it provides exposure to courses in various disciplines within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Communication studies is housed in the Department of English.

Admission requirements

You may apply for admission into the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences by indicating bachelor of arts as your program choice on the undergraduate application for admission. Direct entry into the faculty is subject to your meeting the general admission requirements for Memorial University.

You may choose communication studies as your major at the time of application or you can explore your options and declare a major in a later semester by emailing registrar@mun.ca to make your choice official.

Sample first year

Wondering what courses you would take in your first year? Check out a sample program of suggested courses for communication studies students.

Sample courses and degree map

CMST 2000 - Critical Approaches to Popular Culture
PHIL 2140 - Media Ethics
CMST 3816 - Television Production

Communication studies degree map

Degree maps are navigational tools, designed to help you make the right choices throughout your bachelor of arts degree. They cover information pertaining to your studies, provide study tips, career guidance, suggestions for involvement, advice on go abroad activities and on your well being. 

Career opportunities

A bachelor of arts degree, with a major in communication studies, prepares students for a variety of careers including:

  • advertising
  • human resources management
  • public relations
  • education
  • consulting
  • telecommunications
  • broadcasting
  • fine and performing arts
  • writing
  • publishing
  • research (academic and business)

Communication studies is also excellent preparation if you intend to pursue a career in law, journalism, film or politics.

Note: some of these careers may call for supplementary education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential learning or professional courses and exams.