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Department of Communication

College of Arts and Sciences

The Department of Communication supports Indiana State University's student-centered educational mission by engaging students in experiential learning and skill development. We promote competencies in understanding communication processes, respecting diverse identities, mastering information technologies, and committing to ethical communication practices.

About Us

The Department of Communication takes a leading role in sustaining the strongly student-centered, broadly accessible educational mission and vision of Indiana State University. We do so through engaging students in experiential learning, fostering their development of skills, and promoting competencies such as a complex understanding of the communication process as the foundation of the ongoing human process of meaning-making and community-building; profound respect for the diverse range of identities and ideologies within our local and global communities; a sophisticated grasp, as creator and user, of the wide range of information technologies that shape communication today and of those which will evolve to shape it differently in the future; and a lifelong commitment to presenting and interpreting communication in an ethical, responsible manner. Listed below are the essential dimensions of the study of communication:

  • Explain the complexity of human communication processes. Demonstrate an understanding of the classical, critical/interpretative, and social scientific theories and research methods used by communication scholars.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of theories and research as they apply to the design and evaluation of original research proposals and projects. 
  • Understand appropriate research methods as these are relevant to both the analysis of texts and the creation of communication research projects. 
  • Explain the situatedness and discipline of the field of human communication.

  • Practice and demonstrate competence in the ability to speak in a variety of communication contexts. 
  • Practice and demonstrate competence in the ability to work effectively in groups. 
  • Demonstrate the ability to write effectively in a variety of communication contexts. 
  • Demonstrate critical thinking by analyzing and evaluating communication products and processes using relevant communication frameworks. 
  • Demonstrate and employ the skills necessary for conflict management and resolution.
  • Demonstrate and employ the skills necessary for effective decision-making. 
  • Design texts for diverse audiences, campaigns, and organizational environments. 
  • Demonstrate creative and analytical abilities in communication projects. 
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the variety of communication practices found in a multicultural and globalized society.

  • Apply an ethical framework to various communication interactions and dilemmas. 
  • Evaluate and analyze the ethical dimensions of communication situations. 

Prospective Students

The Department of Communication at Indiana State University offers a study program that prepares students to work in today's constantly changing world. Our need to create, employ, and understand effective communication is more important than at any point in recorded history. Human interaction and communication technologies shape action and interaction globally, impacting the lives of individuals and communities. The communication program at ISU involves students in experiential learning through a course of study that includes common core requirements. Students take courses in the history, theory, and practice of communication, conducting research, engaging in writing projects, and producing cultural artifacts.

Internships

The Communication Department at Indiana State University offers dynamic internship opportunities that allow students to gain real-world experience while honing their skills in various fields such as media, public relations, and corporate communication. Interns work closely with professionals in diverse settings, from local businesses to nonprofit organizations, where they can apply classroom knowledge to practical projects. These internships not only enhance students' resumes but also provide invaluable networking opportunities, preparing them for successful careers in the communication industry.

Internship Information for Employers 

We are so happy that you are looking for a great student intern to contribute to your organization. Below, you will find the requirements that our student interns must meet to qualify for internships for course credit. 

To receive course credit, we ask that our students meet the following criteria:

  • Must be junior level standing
  • Must have a minimum of 2.75 cumulative GPA
  • Must contribute 240 hours to an organization in an academic term 
  • Students will submit a professional portfolio at the end of their experience that highlights their contributions to your organization
  • Students will submit an evaluation and a reflection at the end of their work experience

Employers are asked to submit an electronic evaluation of the intern's experience at the end of the experience. This survey will be emailed to you toward the end of each term.  

If your organization would like to post a position for an internship, please follow the instructions below. 

Any questions about posting a position on Handshake, please contact ISU's Career Center at
1(812) 237-5000 or isu-career-center@mail.indstate.edu