Communication and Digital Media

Program Overview

A degree in Communication and Digital Media from Simpson University offers an exciting opportunity to design and create in a faith-based environment. Through guided instruction and experiential learning using industry standard software, students will work toward mastery in the principles of graphic design, photography, drone, animation, film, communication, and more. Much of a digital media major’s time is spent on completing projects, with the intent of developing real-world, relevant career skills. Students will also have opportunities to participate in a wide variety of internship programs, which will further develop these skills.

Students who pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and Digital Media at Simpson University learn to integrate their faith into their creative process and their projects. While gaining a faith-based, academic and technical education, our students also learn to create as Christian professionals equipped to impact and serve the world around them.

THE ART OF COMMUNICATION IS THE LANGUAGE OF LEADERSHIP

Program Highlights

Have opportunities to create engaging media with the latest tools and methodologies
Work with others to solve problems by utilizing integrated, creative processes
Learn how to utilize social media platforms, graphics, web resources, and media production in communicating effectively to business customers and the community at large
Combine faith, art, technology, culture and business to create work that is relevant and meaningful
Develop a portfolio that includes creative solutions in a broad range of digital mediums

Why choose SU for your Communications degree?

One-on-one Attention. Because of our small class sizes, our professors can be intentional and give students the attention they need to equip them to grow their skills and develop projects that are engaging, meaningful and relevant. We have an Mac lab with Adobe Creative Cloud access available to Digital Media students along with digital cameras, Podcast Studio, and other high-quality multimedia equipment.
Experiential Learning and Internships. Much of the work students do will be project-based and therefore, require students to utilize their new skills and knowledge. This may include real-world projects for both departments on campus and area businesses. Assistance in finding digital design internships will also be available for students within this major.

Program Learning Outcomes

Communication Models & Theory: Students will comprehend, understand, and apply communication models and theory in diverse practical contexts.
Ethically Appropriate Communication:
- Students will be able to develop content that reflects ethically appropriate communication in multiple contexts.
- Students will be able to understand and demonstrate appreciation of the cultural values, diversity and unity of a multicultural world.
Communication Artifacts: Students will be able to evaluate, analyze, and synthesize communication artifacts with skill in relating them to similar communication products.
Information Literacy: Students are able to recognize when information is needed and have the ability to use the appropriate methodology to discover, evaluate, and utilize the appropriate evidence in communicating messages.
Communication Ability: Students will be able to communicate orally and in writing with advanced proficiency.

Specializations

Organizational Communication and Public Relations

The Organizational Communication and Public Relations specialization focuses on strategic communication within organizations and the public sphere. Students gain skills in public relations, leadership, media strategy, and advanced public speaking, learning how to effectively craft and manage messages for various audiences. Ideal for careers in corporate communication, nonprofit advocacy, public affairs, or internal communication, this track develops both practical and ethical communication competencies in professional settings.

Digital Media

The Digital Media specialization blends creativity with technology, equipping students with practical skills in graphic design, web development, digital photography, animation, and multimedia storytelling. Courses emphasize hands-on experience with modern media tools, preparing graduates for careers in digital marketing, content creation, media production, and design. This track is suited for students who enjoy visual storytelling and working in fast-paced digital environments.

General Communication

The General Communication Studies specialization provides a strong foundation in the principles and theories of human communication, exploring a wide variety of communication types. This track is ideal for those seeking to develop critical thinking, analytical, and presentation skills applicable across a wide range of careers or for those planning to pursue graduate studies in communication or related fields.

Internship & Career Opportunities

Social Media Manager
Content Creation
Podcasting
Graphic Designers
Illustrators
Film/Video Editors
Multimedia Artists and Producers
Web Designers
Art Directors
Marketing and Digital Designers
Film and Video Editors
Photographers
Advertising and Promotions Managers

Communication Minor

Required Courses

Required Courses (6 credits)
- Oral Communication
- Communication Theory
Electives (15 credits; 9 must be upper div)
- Choose at least one Introductory Skill course: Interpersonal Communication or Small Group Communication
- Choose at least one Methods course: Argumentation & Debate or Nonverbal Communication or Advanced Public Communication
- Choose 9 credits of Communication Department electives

Digital Media Minor

Required Courses

Required Courses (12 credits)
- Media and Culture
- Electronic Publishing
- Convergent Media
- Communication Ethics

“Simpson University’s scholarship has given me the opportunity to move across the world and start my life in the USA. My American Dream came true and I have been able to make lifelong friendships.”