The Communication and Development Studies program is jointly administered by the School of Media Arts and Studies (formerly known as the School of Telecommunications) and the Center for International Studies. The program has a curriculum that allows students to enroll in courses offered by a variety of disciplines across the university. The curriculum requires each student to select courses in: Telecommunications; Area Studies such as Africa, Latin America, or Southeast Asia; individual professional specializations such as public relations, management, or media production; development theory and applications, and research and information tools. As part of the practical training emphasis of the program, each student must also complete a field study or internship. Additionally, during their second year, students work in teams to design and execute a service learning project with a local community organization. All students must demonstrate proficiency in a language applicable to the geographic area of study other than English.Two years are normally required to complete the 70 credit-hour, with time permitting for field study or internship.

The Communication and Development Studies program has a curriculum that allows students to enroll in courses offered by a variety of disciplines across the university. The curriculum requires each student to select courses in: Telecommunications; Area Studies such as Africa, Latin America, or Southeast Asia; individual professional specializations such as public relations, management, or media production; development theory and applications, and research and information tools.

In the second year, students work in teams to design and execute a formal communication campaign. Each student must also complete a field study or internship. All demonstrate proficiency in a language applicable to the geographic area of study. Normally, two years are required to complete the 70 credit-hour minimum.

CommDev Program Requirements Breakdown

• 5 credits of the CommDev Colloquium
• 5 Communication core courses (usually 25 credits)
• 3 Area Studies courses (usually 15 credits)
• 2 Development Theory courses (5 credits)
• Internship or Field Work (up to 5 credits toward required 70)
• 3 Development Specialization courses (15 credits)
• Comprehensive Exams or Professional Project (4 credits) or Thesis (up to 10 credits)
• Service Learning Project (up to 4 credits)

*For more information on specific courses, please visit the Ohio University Registrar.

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