Boost Your Grad School Preparation with These Essential Communication Courses!

Are you considering graduate school? Whether you’re leaning towards law, public policy, healthcare administration, or the 4+1 program at Chapman University, we’ve got just the lineup to help you elevate your preparation! Our communication electives are designed to give you an edge by equipping you with specialized knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Here’s how these courses can help lay a strong foundation for your academic and professional journey:

  1. COM 372: Introduction to Health Communication

If healthcare is your passion, this course is a perfect entry point into the world of health communication. COM 372 introduces key concepts, theories, and empirical research that highlight the importance of communication in healthcare contexts. Whether you’re planning to pursue Chapman’s 4+1 Health and Strategic Communication program or another graduate school path, this course equips you with essential skills to succeed. You’ll explore how effective communication can enhance patient care, inform health policies, and foster relationships between healthcare providers and the public.

– Perfect For: Students interested in healthcare careers, the 4+1 program, or graduate studies in health-related fields.

  1. COM 393: Communication Law

Thinking about law school? COM 393 is your gateway to understanding the legal landscape of media and communication in the United States. This course delves into constitutional law, freedom of speech, and how the First Amendment impacts media regulation. From mass media to modern-day digital issues, you’ll analyze how legal rulings shape society’s access to information and the boundaries of free expression. The course offers invaluable insights for anyone pursuing a career in law, media, or public policy.

– Perfect For: Students with aspirations of attending law school or those curious about the intersection of law and media.

  1. COM 452: Political Communication

The intersection of politics and communication has never been more critical. COM 452 examines how communication shapes political processes, from national elections to local government decisions. You’ll explore democratic and non-democratic systems, the role of the media, public opinion, and political advocacy. This course is particularly relevant for students interested in pursuing political science, law, or public administration, as it equips you with an understanding of how communication strategies influence public perception and policy making.

– Perfect For: Political science minors, law school hopefuls, or students interested in careers in public policy or government.

  1. COM 495: Research Seminar in Communication

For those who plan to engage in academic research or pursue a graduate degree, COM 495 is an essential course. It gives students the opportunity to conduct independent research on a variety of communication topics. You’ll refine your research methods, critically evaluate studies, and contribute original findings to the field of communication. This seminar prepares you for the rigorous research demands of graduate school, helping you develop the skills to succeed in any scholarly environment.

– Perfect For: Aspiring graduate students looking to hone their research abilities.

Why Take These Courses?

Graduate school applications are more competitive than ever, and having a solid foundation in specialized areas can make your application stand out. These courses not only prepare you academically but also provide practical, real-world applications of communication strategies across multiple fields.

Whether you’re on the path to law school, healthcare administration, public policy, or research, these communication electives give you the tools to navigate and succeed in your future studies and career. Plus, by taking these courses now, you’re setting yourself up for success in Chapman’s 4+1 Health and Strategic Communication program, which allows you to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years.

Take charge of your academic journey today and get ready for the next chapter!

**Interested in learning more?**

Follow the School of Communication on Instagram, or reach out to your academic advisor to learn how these courses fit into your academic plan!

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