New Tracks in the CMS Major!
Global and Intercultural Communication
Do you want to make a global impact? Are you driven to break down cultural barriers and build bridges between people? Do you see yourself working with diverse communities around the world? If so, a specialization in Global and Intercultural Communication will empower you to turn these aspirations into reality.
This dynamic field provides you with the concrete skills to navigate the complexities of cross-cultural communication in our increasingly interconnected world. It goes beyond simply learning languages – it’s about understanding how culture shapes communication, from subtle nonverbal cues to deeply ingrained values. As the world becomes increasingly globalized, the demand for skilled communicators who can effectively navigate intercultural interactions is skyrocketing.
Imagine yourself confidently interacting with people from all walks of life, decoding cultural nuances, and building rapport across borders. Picture yourself working on international projects, facilitating communication between diverse teams, and contributing to a more just and equitable world. This specialization empowers you to become a global citizen, promoting transnational justice and human rights through the power of communication.
In addition to a required course on Language, Communication, and Culture, choose from electives such as:
- Rhetoric: East and West
- Cultural Impact of Innovation
- Gender and Communication
- Decolonizing Communication Studies
- Topics in Global Communication
- Difficult Conversations
A specialization in Global and Intercultural Communication unlocks a world of exciting career opportunities. Here are just a few examples:
- International Relations and Diplomacy: Work as a diplomat, foreign service officer, or in international organizations like the United Nations, fostering cooperation and understanding between nations. Supplement your communication skills with coursework in political science or international affairs.
- Global Business and Marketing: Thrive in the international marketplace by building strong relationships with clients and partners worldwide. Combine your intercultural communication expertise with business acumen for a competitive edge.
- Intercultural Training and Consulting: Equip organizations and individuals with the skills to navigate cultural differences effectively. Your expertise will be invaluable in bridging cultural gaps and fostering successful cross-cultural interactions.
- Nonprofit and NGO Management: Work with organizations dedicated to social justice, human rights, and international development, using your communication skills to create positive change around the globe. Focus on a specific region or issue to deepen your impact.
Strategic and Risk Communication: Shaping the Narrative, Managing Uncertainty
What are the best ways to communicate about complex, controversial topics like climate change, public health crises, or emerging technologies? How do you design social media campaigns that go viral for the right reasons? What are the most effective ways to communicate with people during emergencies? How do you build trust with diverse audiences? If any of these questions resonate with you, a Communication Studies track in Strategic and Risk Communication could be a perfect fit.
This innovative field is at the forefront of how organizations and individuals connect with their audiences in today's complex media environment. Strategic communication is about crafting targeted messages, building relationships, and achieving specific communication goals. It's about understanding how to influence perceptions, manage reputations, and navigate the inherent risks of public communication. The curriculum balances strategic communication principles with the complexities of risk communication, preparing you to address communication challenges in healthcare, cybersecurity, disaster preparedness, and public policy.
Imagine yourself confidently addressing a press conference, delivering a message to the public that resonates and inspires action. Picture yourself developing a communication plan that successfully navigates a crisis, protecting an organization's reputation and maintaining public trust. Envision yourself leading a team to create a compelling social media campaign that reaches millions and achieves measurable results. With a track in Strategic and Risk Communication, these scenarios can become your reality.
In addition to a required Strategic and Risk Communication course, choose from electives such as:
- Team-Based Communication
- Health Decision-Making
- Communication and Public Opinion
- Strategic Sales and Event Planning
- Building Sales Relationships
- Social Media and Organizations
A specialization in Strategic and Risk Communication opens doors to a diverse range of careers. Your skills in crafting compelling narratives and navigating complex communication challenges will be highly valued across various sectors. Here are just a few examples of the career paths you can pursue:
- Risk Analytics: Assess and mitigate potential risks in various sectors, from finance to healthcare to public works
- Public Affairs: Advocate for policies, build relationships with government officials, and manage public perception of organizations.
- Crisis Communication: Develop and execute communication plans to navigate crises, protect reputations, and maintain stakeholder trust.
- Social Media Management: Develop and implement social media strategies, create engaging content, and build online communities.