Converse Offering New Majors in Communications, Environmental Studies

Written by Amanda Mathis

Converse University will expand two programs in the fall semester to nurture students’ passions by introducing a BA in Communications and Media Studies and a BA in Environmental Studies. Beginning August 26, 2024, these programs will equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful careers in these fields. 

Enriching our programs is one of the areas of focus guiding Converse University’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan.

The Ever-Evolving World of Communications

Our BA in Communications and Media Studies is not just another program – it’s a unique opportunity for those aspiring to be marketing professionals or break into the field. With cutting-edge digital marketing and marketing analytics courses, Converse will prepare students for the ever-evolving world of communication. Our program offers valuable insights into traditional and digital media communications, teaching students how to communicate effectively and ethically in our technologically driven and globalized world. This unique opportunity, designed to excite and motivate students in their academic journeys, is a testament to our commitment to providing a transformative and forward-thinking education.

This degree will explore the pivotal role that communication and technology play in our daily lives.

Housed in the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences, this degree will explore the pivotal role that communication and technology play in our daily lives. Converse’s newest interdisciplinary program explores the power of communication and how messages spread across our nation and the world. This program will give students access to a vast network of Converse marketing alums.

“My colleagues and I are very excited about this innovative program,” said Dr. Mirko Hall, Chair of Humanities and Cultures. “We look forward to equipping our students with the skills necessary to communicate and thrive effectively in today’s fast-paced media landscape.” 

The Communications and Media Studies major helps students learn how to analyze and make sense of our society’s barrage of daily information – both accurate and inaccurate – and explore its validity. The degree will also provide insight into ethical principles, such as justice and autonomy, and the ethical standards that professionals and organizations follow.

Learning By Doing

Located in the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Converse’s Environmental Studies degree will stimulate and engage students intellectually. This program explores the connection between living things and their environment, the interaction between human activities and the environment, and better equipping them to address real-world problems.

“Environmental studies always focus on humans,” said Dr. Douglas Jensen, chair of the Natural Sciences Department. “This degree is for those who want to understand what is happening in our environment.”

Environmental Studies is not just a science – it’s an interdisciplinary field that explores the complex interaction between humans and the environment. The program will survey the interconnections between ecology, economics, geography, geology, meteorology, politics, and sociology. This comprehensive approach ensures that Environmental Studies students thoroughly understand environmental issues.

“This expansion of our current degrees benefits our current and future students by providing programs of great interest and relevance.”

President Boone J. Hopkins

We believe in providing a diverse, hands-on learning experience at Converse University. Our biology, chemistry, economics, politics, and sociology courses are designed to help students understand how their choices affect their health and environment. This practical experience is key to our commitment to providing an experiential and engaging education. 

“New programs often draw in students who otherwise might have chosen a different college,” said Converse President Boone Hopkins. “This expansion of our current degrees benefits our current and future students by providing programs of great interest and relevance.”

At Converse University, we provide close, individual attention and guidance throughout a student’s study and understand that each student is unique. Our faculty and staff are deeply committed to supporting and valuing their journey with intellectually stimulating coursework, dedicated and award-winning faculty, internships, research, and study-travel opportunities. Converse students are truly valued members of our community. 

Are you interested in learning more about our academic programs at Converse University? Plan your campus visit today!