We Are...
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More than 20
student
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organizations
625 For-credit
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“Penn State College of Communications”
This publication is available in alternative media on request.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to programs, faciltiies, admission, and employment
without regard to personal characteristics not related to ability, performance, or qualifications as determined by University policy or by state or federal
authorities. It is the policy of the University to maintain an academic and work environment free of discrimination, including harassment. The Pennsylvania
State University prohibits discrimination and harassment against any person because of age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, nation, origin, race,
religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. Discrimination or harassment against faculty, staff or students will not be tolerated
at The Pennsylvania State University. Direct all inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy to the Affirmative Action Director, The Pennsylvania State
The College
of
Communications
We Are
About the College
Honor Success Tradition
Tradition Honor Success
Penn State
Established in 1985 as the School of Communications, the program was given
college status in 1995 and remains one of the fastest-growing colleges at Penn
State. Penn State is committed to providing its students with a blend of applied
and conceptual courses within its various majors. It is also dedicated to provide
its students with a broad-based education rooted in the liberal arts and sciences.
The College takes their obligation seriously to provide students with a
curriculum that prepares them to enter media-related positions and to become
engaged, contributing members of society in a variety of capacities.
“In this tough job market, the College of Communications
was still able to provide me with the networking to get the big
job.”
-Amanda Barrett, Public Relations, Class of 2012
Endless Opportunities
The Washington Program gives students the complete Washington
experience, including internship placement & credit, housing and special events
& programs. Over the years, students have worked for organizations like the
American Civil Liberties Union, CNN, the Environmental Protection Agency,
the office of Senator Arlen Specter and the Organization of American States.
“The professors constantly gave me hands on experience so I
was super prepared.”
-Trey Miller, Journalism, Class of 2012
Success in the City is an internship and job placement fair in New York City
each spring that offers students the opportunity to sharpen their professional
skills under the critical eyes of practitioners, to relate their education in the arts
and sciences to communications professions, and to explore career interests.
State of the Art Learning Facilties
The College of Communications has 20 technology labs in six different buildings on
campus. They include numerous facilities available for student use outside of class, or for
use as part of class work. These facilities are home to state-of-the-art, high-definition
television set for all five courses of study within the college. A sampling of our facilities are
listed below.
ComMedia, a 24/7 newsroom and multimedia production facility
Digital broadcast news lab, designed for students in broadcast journalism
Television news studio, equipped with latest-in-the-industry HD digital technology
Gannett Foundation New Media Laboratory, equipped with a variety of software
Media effects labs, provided to conduct research involving radio, news, television, film and
video game entertainment
“I decided to go to Penn State because they have one of the
best colleges of communication in the country, and a lot of
my classes really helped prepare me for my current position.”
-Colleen Hanrahan, Public Relations, Class of 2011
JobExpo.Comm is a career fair that brings businesses from a range of
communications fields to campus each spring, providing a one-day opportunity
for students and alumni from the College of Communications to meet with
prospective employers. In the past 12 years, more than 580 companies and 5,000
students have attended the event.
College of Communications
201 Carnegie Building
The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA 16802-6405
Interested in learning more about you!
College of Communications
201 Carnegie Building
The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA 16802-6405
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54 MCALLISTER BUILDING
UNIVERSITY PARK PA 16802-6405
College of Communications
201 Carnegie Building
The Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA 16802-6405
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We
Are
The College of Communications, founded in 1985, is one of the
fastest-growing colleges at Penn State. The program was given
college status in 1995 and has since become the largest
accredited mass communications program in the country. The
College is home to four departments: Advertising/Public
Relations, Film-Video and Media Studies, Journalism and
Telecommunications. The College offers five undergraduate
majors (advertising/public relations, film-video, journalism,
media studies and telecommunications), master’s degree
programs in media studies and telecommunications, and a Ph.D.
program in mass communications.
The College is renowned for its blend of professional and
academic backgrounds and is dedicated to excellence in
teaching, research, and service. Its strength is further enhanced
by six endowed faculty positions: the James and Barbara Palmer
Chair in Telecommunications; the Pioneers Chair in Cable
Telecommunications; the Larry and Ellen Foster Professorship
in Writing and Editing; the Don Davis Professorship in Ethics;
the Knight Chair in Sports Journalism and Society; and the John
and Ann Curley Professorship in First Amendment Studies.
AT A GLANCE
Advertising/Public Relations
Want to be a publicist for a superstar? Or create advertising
campaigns for a major brand or corporation? Advertising/Public
Relations teaches the necessary skills to earn these dream jobs.
Film-Video
Want to win an Oscar? Start here with the College of
Communications Film/Video program. Learn how to write,
produce, film, and edit videos.
Journalism
Want to be on the scene reporting every minute of the action?
The College of Communications Journalism program allows
students to become expert reporters ready to take on the
fast-paced world of journalism.
Media Studies
Research how media consumers operate. The fascinating world of
media studies allows studentsto delve deep into the aesthetic,
humanistic, psychological, social, political, legal and political
aspects of old and new media—domestic as well as foreign.
Students engage in experiences outside of Penn State through
participation in study-abroad programs and the Penn State
Washington Program. More than 2,500 internship sites
established by the Officer of Career Placement and Internships
provide students with diverse opportunities in a range of
communications fields.
Telecommunications
The College’s endowed lectures and programs bring in top
academics and professionals to share their expertise through:
the Foster-Foreman Conference of Distinguished Writers,
the Ben Bronstein Lecture in Ethics and Public Relations, the
Davis Symposium in Advertising Ethics, the Oweida Lecture in
Journalism Ethics, the Palmer Lecture in Telecommunications
Studies, and the Pockrass Memorial Lecture.
General Communications Clubs & Organizations
The College also offers a Multicultural High School Journalism
Workshop and high school institutes in journalism, filmmaking,
sports journalism, radio and broadcast journalism each summer.
La Vie – La Vie is the Penn State Yearbook. La Vie, which means
The Life, focuses on all aspects of Penn State life. Each year the
yearbook accepts new applicants for positions in each of the
divisions, including literary, news, layout, student life,
organizations, seniors, sports, photography, marketing and
advertising.
Get wired in with the College of Communications
Telecommunications program. Students learn all aspects of
electronic media, including radio and television broadcasting,
cable and satellite, the Internet and wired and mobile telephones.
College of Communications Student Council – The purpose
of the College of Comunications Student Council is to act as the
representative body of the students of the College of
Communications and the University. Council members strive to
promote academic excellence, maintain faculty relationships and
develop activities to further student awareness of pertinent issues.
The Peer Mentor Program – The Peer Mentor Program
facilitates an interactive relationship between experienced students
within the College of Communications and new freshmen
aspiring to pursue a degree in the communications field.
College of Communications
We
Are
ADVERTISING/PUBLIC RELATIONS
Program Description
The Advertising/Public Relations major provides students with
opportunities to develop skills in the areas of media planning
and relations, research and client services. The required classes
create a balance between theory, research and practice. In order
to be admitted into the major, students must obtain a 3.3 GPA
by the middle of their sophomore year.
Options
Advertising option: The advertising profession integrates
researching, planning and designing to effectively call public
attention to a product, service or need. Students enrolled in this
option will explore advertising’s effect on consumer’s strategic
decision making as well as its role in mass media.
Public Relations: This option allows students to explore the
role of public relations in creating mutually beneficial
relationship between an organization and its key publics. The
public relations degree strengthens students’ written and verbal
skills.
Career Opportunities
Advertising: Studying advertising trains students in skills
ranging from campaign development, creative materials and
business planning.Students gain an overall understanding of
how these skills are brought together and used to help solve
advertising communication problems. In the past, students have
completed internships at Katz Media, Marc USA Advertising,
Mullen, NBC Universal, Ogilvy, Saatichi & Saatchi, Seventeen
Magazine and The Brownstein Group.
Public Relations: This option helps prepare students for public
relations careers in agencies, non-profit organizations,
corporations, entertainment and sports. The hands-on class
work sharpens verbal and written communication skills, which
can be applied to any job requiring creative and strategic
planning. Students have applied skills learned in class to
successfully complete internships at a variety of reputable
organizations: American Red Cross, Burson-Marsteller,
Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc., Edelman Public Relations,
Fleishman-Hillard, Food Network and Teen Vogue.
I decided to go to Penn State because they have one
of the best colleges of communication in the
country, and a lot of my classes really helped prepare
me for my current position. - Colleen Hanrahan,
Public Relations, Class of 2011
Required Courses
Classes in both majors allow students to gain hands-on
experience. These courses teach students skills necessary to earn
national recognition in competitions such as the 2010 and 2011
Public Relations Student Society of America Star Chapter Award,
2010 Teahan Community Service Award and 2009 Bateman
Honorable Mention. Both the advertising and public relations
majors require a campaigns class, which allows students to work
with a real-world client and add to their portfolios. Additional
mandatory classes include:
Advertising: Basic News Writing Skills, , Advertising Creative
Strategies, Advertising Media Planning, Advertising Campaigns
Public Relations: Basic News Writing Skills, News Writing and
Reporting, Public Relations, Public Relations Media and Methods,
Public Relations Campaigns
Ad/PR Clubs & Organizations
Advertising Club: The Penn State Advertising Club (AdClub)
is a University chapter of the American Advertising Federation
(AAF). AdClub simulates an interest in advertising and related
communications industry careers by organizing field trips to
agencies as well as hosting panel events with professionals from
Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, New York and other regional agencies.
Members participate in monthly programs and various workshops
to get prepared for the real world of advertising. Members also
are offered a chance to take part of the AAF’s year-long national
student advertising competition.
Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA):
PRSSA cultivates mutually advantageous relationships between
students and public relations professionals in PRSA. PRSSA aims
to foster students’ understanding of modern public relations
theories and procedures. The Public Relations Student Society
of America also instills its members with a professional attitude
through workshops and different hands-on
committees.
• PRSSA Star Chapter Award in 2010 and 2011
• 2010 Teahan Community Service Award
• 2008 Teahan Chapter Website Award
• 2003 Bateman Competition Honorable Mention
• 2009 Bateman Competition Honorable Mention
College of Communications
We
Are
Program Description
Students studying telecommunications will interact with a variety
of electronic media such as radio and television broadcasting,
cable and satellite, the Internet and wired and mobile telephones.
The university’s top of the line broadcasting and editing
equipment, located close to campus at Innovation Park, rivals
the technology found in an NBC studio to give students
real-world, hands-on experiences. Faculty members and
professors have extensive backgrounds in the industry to prepare
students for their careers.
The department’s curriculum gives students an understanding of
telecommunications role in the integration of business,
technology and culture. Students will learn about programming,
marketing, audio and video production, advertising, sales,
promotion, entrepreneurship, industry structures, new
technologies, economics, finance, management, competition,
law and regulation, ethics and global markets. Exposure to both
fundamental and theoretical industry practices develop students’
skills to become future industry leaders.
Students gain hands-on experience through outside of class
activities. Each year, students can get involved with the
production, direction and performance of a live webcast for
Homecoming and THON. A partnership with the Big 10
Network also gives students the opportunity to report live from
sporting events. Finally, ComRadio is a live radio show students
produce and host.
Career Opportunities
The telecommunications field is rapidly evolving and
encompasses a variety of opportunities. Students who receive
this degree are prepared to work in the television, radio, cable
TV, satellite, Internet and telephone industries. Alumni have
secured positions with prominent companies like AT&T,
Verizon, Comcast, Disney, Google, ESPN, NBC, CBS, FOX,
Universal Music Group, HBO, TBS, MTV, VH1, Cartoon
Network, USA, NFL Network, A&E, as well as local radio and
television stations and other media-related firms.
Required Courses
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Telecommunications Clubs & Organizations
CommRadio: This student-run, web-based radio station
provides hands-on broadcasting opportunities for students. There
is news, talks and sports coverage 24-hours a day throughout the
year. Along with student shows, the programming schedule gets
supplemented by AP All-News Radio.
Penn State Network Television: Penn State Network
Television is the first student-run television network at Penn State,
which aims to provide relevant news, public affairs and
entertainment programming for the student community.
Radio and Television Digital News Association (RTDNA):
RTDNA allows its members to stay on top of trends in the
electronic new industry and expand their professional network
through publications and programs. RTDNA represents local
and network news executives in broadcasting, cable and other
electronic media in more than 30 countries. Members also have
the opportunity to enhance their journalistic and news
management skills.
WKPS-FM (The LION 90.7): The LION 90.7 is a
non-commercial radio station that offers music not found
anywhere else in the region. This student-run station also
broadcasts news, live sports and talk shows. There is opportunity
to get involved with broadcasting, business, underwriting and
promotions.
WPSU-FM: WPSU is a member station of National Public Radio
and serves the public in central Pennsylvania. While this is a
professional station in operation, the station does depend on
volunteers for a wide variety of duties. Student participation
includes progressive involvement in program production,
equipment operation and the administration of programming,
operations and promotion activities.
WPSU-TV: Undergraduate and graduate students play an integral
role in public television at Penn State by helping with facets such
as programming, production, promotion, the Center for
Instructional Design and Interactive Video engineering and
technical services.
Basic News Writing Skills, Survey of Electronic Media and
Telecommunications, Introduction to Broadcast/Cable
Management, Production Administration, Introduction to
Telecommunications Systems, Voice and Data Communications,
Introduction to Telecommunications Laboratory, Protocols and
Networks, Advanced Telecommunications Laboratory
Filming the THON webcast was one of my favorite
moments in college. - Brett Stephen,
Telecommunications, Class of 2008
College of Communications
We
Are
Program Description
The media studies major is designed for students seeking to
research how media consumers function in one of four
approaches: aesthetic, cultural, humanistic, and
social-behavioral. Students who successfully complete this major
will have a strong foundation in the liberal arts and
well-developed language and analytical skills. This major requires
students to choose one of the following options for in-depth
study: film and television, general, and international
communications.
MEDIA STUDIES
Media Studies Clubs & Organizations
Media Studies Society: The purpose of the Penn State Media
Studies Society is to provide media studies majors with a
background of media studies, networking opportunities and other
information sessions.
Career Opportunities
Students pursuing a degree in media studies often choose to
continue their studies at the graduate school level. Many students
pursue research opportunities to further explore a concentrated
area of interest.
Required Courses
Courses offered in media studies prepare students to excel in
careers in the academy, business, government agencies and the
law by teaching them to think critically, to express their unique
voice, to advocate ideas with rhetorical skill and to appreciate the
international diversity of media practices.
Introduction to Media Effects, Basic Film/Video Making, The
Mass Media and Society, Cultural Aspects of the Mass Media,
Political Economy of Communications, and Media and
Democracy
My professors were very helpful when it came to
preparing me for graduate school applications and
coursework. - Courtney Bentz, Media Studies,
Class of 2007
College of Communications
We
Are
Program Description
The journalism degree prepares students for careers as writers,
reporters, editors and photographers to apply these skills to all
media outlets ranging from newspapers, magazines, television,
radio and on-line mediums. Students can get involved with the
university’s independently published student newspaper, The
Daily Collegian, to build their portfolios. Internships offered
through the College of Communications and Penn State
Athletics are popular for students to apply their knowledge
outside of the classroom. Journalism students can gain
broadcast experience with the Centre County Report, which is a
student-run live news report aired weekly. Also, ComRadio gives
students the opportunity to produce and host a live radio show.
Options
Print: The print option is designed for students interested in
newspapers, magazines and/or multimedia journalism. Print
and online reporting/editing are skills taught to students in the
core classes. Every student must take two required courses in
the basic skills of reporting and editing. Upon completing these
classes, students choose advanced instruction in their area of
interest.
Broadcast: This option is designed for students who aspire to
report, edit or produce in the fields of radio, television or
multimedia. Students gain experience with techniques of audio/
video and online reporting and editing. Every student must take
two required courses in the basic skills of reporting and
editing. Upon completing these classes, students choose
advanced instruction in their area of interest.
Visual Communication: Aspiring photographers, editors or
producers are best suited for the visual communications option.
Students gain experience with still and video photography and
editing techniques. Every student must take two required courses
in the basic skills of photography and editing. Upon completing
these classes, students choose advanced instruction in their area
of interest.
Career Opportunities
Students who earn a journalism degree gain knowledge in three
key areas: reporting, editing and producing. Instruction in these
fundamental techniques prepare graduates for successin a wide
range of journalistic platforms. Students are advised to seek
practical writing experience in college, such as writing for the
student newspapers or radio station, doing an internship or
working during the summer for a media outlet.
The professors constantly gave me hands on
experience so I was super prepared. - Trey Miller,
Journalism, Class of 2011
JOURNALISM
Past internships completed by journalism majors include: 60
Minutes, Associated Press, CBS, CNN News, E! News, ESPN,
Turner Broadcasting, USA Today and Vogue Magazine. These
valuable learning experiences make students more desirable as
candidates for their first jobs.
Required Courses
Print: Basic News Writing Skills, News Writing and Reporting,
Law of Mass Communications, News Media Ethics, Reporting
Methods, News Editing and Evaluation
Broadcast: Basic News Writing Skills, News Writing and
Reporting, Law of Mass Communications, News Media Ethics
Radio Reporting, Television Reporting
Visual Communication: Basic Newswriting Skills, News Writing
and Reporting, Photojournalism, Law of Mass Communications,
News Media Ethics, Photography for the Mass Media
Journalism Clubs/Organizations
The Daily Collegian: The Collegian is a nationally recognized,
student-published newspaper. Printed Monday through Friday,
The Collegian has a circulation of about 19,000. Its students
are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the newspaper,
which includes a business and news division.
Kappa Tau Alpha: Kappa Tau Alpha is the college honor
society that recognizes academic excellence and promotes
scholarships in journalism and mass communications. It is the
only journalism honor society recognized by the Association of
College Honor Societies. Membership must be earned by
excellence in academic work.
Onward State: Onward State is a student-run news organization
serving Penn State through the online medium.
Penn State Association of Journalists for Diversity (PSAJD):
The goal of the Penn State Association of Journalists for
Diversity’s goal is to unite students of all culture in the field of
journalism. PSAJD members publish the quarterly newsletter,
“Cultural Expressions,” which showcases the talent and expresses
the views of multicultural journalism students.
Society of Professional Journalists (Sigma Delta Chi): The
student chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists offers
its members the opportunity to enter the Mark of Excellence
Contest, honoring the region’s best work in newspaper, magazine,
broadcasting and photojournalism. Sigma Delta Chi also attends a
national conference to learn more about the journalism
profession from invited speakers.
College of Communications
We
Are
Program Description
The film-video major is aimed towards students with a passion
for writing and creating films . Students have the opportunity to
showcase their work at campus-wide events and film
festivals held by the College. After completing COMM 242,
Basic Video/ Filmmaking, with a grade of C or better, students’
portfolios are reviewed for entrance into the major. They also
must have earned fourth semester standing (43.5 credits
completed and/or are in progress) for consideration into the
major.
Career Opportunities
FILM/VIDEO
Film/Video Clubs & Organizations
Student Film Organization (SFO): The Student Film
Organization provides a forum for reviewing student films
through its “Can Film Festival.”
Film & Friends Annual Film Event
Films & Friends is an annual film screening and networking event
conducted by the College of Communications. It provides the
opportunity to meet with Penn State film-video alumni working in
and around New York City, and to meet with film-video students
as well as faculty and staff from the College.
This major prepares students to work in film, television or
related fields. Students can work as directors, writers or
producers in the film and television industry. Students also
pursue graduate work at an advanced level in concentrations
such as narrative, alternative or documentary production.
Film-video majors have completed internships at DreamWorks
SKG, Hollywood Production Company, NBC Universal, New
Line Cinema, Paramount, Sony Pictures Entertainment/
Columbia Tristar, Touchstone Pictures (Disney), Universal
Studies and Warner Brothers.
Required Courses
Courses in the film-video major offer experience with
critical-thinking and development of ideas while offering
students in-depth study of writing and hands-on experience with
production. These classes encourage personal expression while
providing a thorough understanding of the production process.
Classes required to complete the film-video major include:
The Art of Cinema, Film History and Theory, Theory and
Practice of Production, Intermediate Narrative Production,
Intermediate Alternative Production, Idea Development and
Media Writing, Intermediate Cinematography and Editing
Techniques, Writing for the Screen I
The biggest lesson that I learned was that nothing
is impossible. That and that failure is not an option. If
you believe that you can’t fail and you refuse to give up
… nothing is impossible. - Sean Kirkpatrick,
Film-Video, Class of 2006
College of Communications
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Are
FILM/VIDEO MAJOR REQUIREMENTS
Students are only admitted into the FILM major starting in the
fall semester each year, and students admitted should expect a
four-semester sequence of film courses over the next two years.
To be considered for entry to the film major, students must have:
1) Earned fourth semester standing (43.5 credits completed
and/or in progress)
2) Have completed at least one full-time semester (12-plus
credits) at Penn State.
3) Have successfully completed COMM 150 and COMM 242
with a grade of C or better no later than their fourth semester.
It is each student’s responsibility to contact an academic advisor
or campus representative regarding an early change of
assignment to University Park in order to meet this requirement.
Students must submit a portfolio consisting of the following
items:
1) An informational cover sheet (name, email, semester
standing).
2) A current Penn State transcript.
a. Transcripts may be obtained from eLion. It does not need to be an official transcript.
3) Creative writing exercise (250-300 words, 12-point Courier
font).
a. Students are required to write a third-person
narrative inspired by a significant moment from their life, evoking the nature of this key moment and the experiences that gave birth to it. These moments of realization have frequently provided starting points for some of the most distinguished novels, poems, short stories and films.
4) A sample of creative work.
a. A video or film, no more than 5 minutes in length, over which the applicant has primary creative control. Work must be submitted on a DVD or mini-DV. The screenplay, presented in proper screenplay format, should be no more than seven pages in length,
authored by the applicant.
5) A written statement contextualizing the creative work
submitted (double-spaced, 12-point Courier font) including
the following elements:
a. A list of factual information about the piece:
i. Title
ii. Format & length (i.e. film, video or script)
iii. When & where made (i.e. date, place, course # if applicable, etc.)
iv. Applicant’s role (i.e. director, author, etc.)
v. Other crew members or collaborators and their roles.
vi. If applicable, teacher, supervisor or
mentor involved with supervision of your project.
b. A description of the ideas presented through the piece. Discusses how images, sound and editing
techniques were used to convey the central concepts (100 words).
c. Assessment of the aesthetic and technical attributes of the piece (100 words).
All components of the portfolio application should be submitted
in a manila envelope clearly labeled with the student’s name and
Penn State email address. Students should download and print
a copy of the portfolio checklist and include the checklist in the
envelope.
Evaluation
The film-video portfolio review committee will evaluate the
portfolios according to the following:
1) Evidence of potential for creative growth in film and video.
2) Ability to express original ideas and artistic vision in written form.
3) Commitment to creative expression.
4) Demonstrated positive personal engagement with the
collaborative learning process.
Deadline for portfolio admission to the major
Students must submit their application between 8:30 a.m. on
Monday and 4:30 p.m. on Friday of SPRING semester finals
week. Portfolios will not be accepted after 4:30 p.m. on Friday of
finals week. Portfolios should be mailed or hand-delivered to:
Film-Video Portfolio Review Committee
College of Communications
204 Carnegie Building
Penn State University Park, 16802
Students will receive email notification confirming the receipt of
their portfolio application. Faculty will report decisions to
applicants via email on June 1.
Scheduling
Students will not be able to schedule the junior core film-video
courses until after the portfolio review decisions have been made
in May. Students should schedule fall classes (not including
film-video courses) on their first date to schedule based on the
number of credits earned after completing the spring semester.
It is also recommended that students schedule fall courses for an
alternate major during the regular spring scheduling period. If a
student is accepted into the film-video major, the advising center
will provide assistance in adding core junior film courses to fall
schedules.
College of Communications
We
Are
The College of Communications recognizes the importance of
advising and supports students as they plan and achieve their
academic and career goals. The ultimate responsibility for
understanding University and College policies and for
completing all degree requirements rests with the student. Both
advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the
advising relationship succeed.
By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their
education, to meet their education goals, and to develop the
habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role.
Advisers understand and can explain degree requirements in the
major in which they are advising. They also are familiar with the
requirements for other programs within the College. The
College provides an academic integrity policy, a form to
document cases of academic dishonesty and a general outline of
graduation requirements.
Advisers can assist students in building skills for their academic
success and in referring them to appropriate campus resources.
If a student’s academic performance is unsatisfactory, he or
she should discuss its implications with an adviser. Advisers
can offer guidance in developing career goals. In consultation
with the adviser, each student should develop an academic plan
which will maintain normal progress and assure an appropriate
sequencing of courses.
ADVISING
The Academic Services Office, as designated by the dean, holds
the responsibility for certifying students for graduation. To assure
that requirements are being satisfied in a timely fashion, students
should review their academic degree audit on a regular basis.
The College of Communications offers immeasurable advising
services for every student. Advising appointments can be made
Monday through Friday to discuss various topics such as
scheduling issues, study abroad planning, petition requests, change
of major applications and graduation plans.
The Office of Academic Services, located in 204 Carnegie
Building, provides advising to all students.
Walk-In Advising Hours
8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Monday through Friday
4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday
Scheduled Appointments
Scheduled Appointments for academic graduation plans, study
abroad planning, petition requests, change of major applications
and more. Daily, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Call (814) 865-1503.
Students enrolled in the Division of Undergraduate Studies
(DUS) who are interested in a communications major can
explore that major with their assigned DUS adviser. The
advising staff provides academic information about college and
university programs, and assists students in curricular decisions
and course scheduling. They also serve as an important source
for referral to other university services. Students have access to
an adviser through appointment, walk-in, email and telephone
consultation, as well as more structured information programs
and activities.
College of Communications
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ROAD MAP TO COLLEGE
HERE: In high school
1 START
planning your future.
fall of junior year, take the PSAT
2 The
or PACT test (if available).
spring of junior year:
3 The
• Take standardized tests: ACT or SAT
(PSU will accept either test).
• Students may retake the test during
senior year to improve scores.
• Read college guides & publications,
making a list of potential colleges.
• Begin visiting college campuses.
summer before senior year
4 The
into the fall of senior year:
• Call colleges for information.
• Visit college campuses.
• Attend college fairs.
• Meet college representatives.
fall of of senior year apply for admission to
5 The
Penn State. Students are encouraged to submit
for financial aid and scholarships
6 Apply
• Apply online for Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
Penn State’s federal school code is 003329.
• Deadline is March 1.
• Prospective students are automatically considered
for scholarships, but may apply for other public
scholarships before the fall semester begins.
applications by November 30. Applying after
November 30 may limit campus and major choices.
To apply, students must:
• Create a MyPennState profile--a personal login &
password for application materials at
http://admissions.psu.edu/apply/mypennstate/
• Submit an application for admission with:
o ACT or SAT scores
o High school transcript
o High school counselor form
o $50 application fee
acceptance letter from Penn State will come in late
7 An
March or early April. Final decision deadline is May 1.
• Celebrate, it’s an honor well deserved.
• All incoming students will be scheduled for a
First-Year Testing, Consulting, and Advising
Program (FTCAP) Day where you will:
o Visit and take a tour of campus.
o Meet your faculty advisor.
o Select your classes.
o Get your student ID.
school graduation
8 High
• Congratulations. Send Penn State
your final transcript.
a
9 Officially
NITTANY LION!
College of Communications
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Penn State isn’t a single place. There are actually 20 campuses
throughout Pennsylvania.
Being big has its advantages...
Among other things, it gives students the freedom to live and
learn at a campus that suits them best.
Some students choose to remain at one campus for all four
years, while other students spend their first two years at one
campus and transition to another for their remaining two years.
The vast majority of majors can be completed in this fashion.
Refered to as the 2+2 plan, it is the most common path to a
Penn State degree--about 60 pecent of students opt for this path
in a typical year.
Choosing a campus
When completing an application, students may choose from
among 20 campuses: - select a first choice and an alternate
choice campus. Penn State’s campuses include:
Abington
Altoona
Beaver
Berks
Brandywine
DuBois
Erie
Fayette
Greater Allegheny Harrisburg
Hazleton
Lehigh Valley
Mont Alto
New Kensington Schuylkill
Shenango
University Park
Wilkes-Barre
World Campus
Worthington Scranton
York
THE 2+2 PLAN
The Transition
Students who are not in majors before the beginning of their
“pool” semester will be included in the group of applicants for
the entrance-to-major process. Their college or the Division of
Undergraduate Studies (if they are enrolled in the division) will
inform them about the entrance-to-major process. Student action
is as follows:
• Students should speak with a College of Communications
adviser in the Carnegie Building to create a scheduled plan.
• Achieve fourth semester standing or higher at the beginning
of his/her pool semester and complete all required courses for
entrance to the selected major.
• Select a preferred campus by the deadline in February of the
pool semester. If the student’s major preference is offered at only
one campus, then he/she does not have to indicate a campus. The
campus will automatically be displayed on the Entrance-to-Major
application.
Entrance-to-College/Major Requirements
All Penn State majors have entrance requirements. Access to most
majors can be categorized in the following three ways, based on
their entrance requirements:
Open-access majors: Most majors at Penn State require only a
minimum cumulative grade-point average (CGPA) of 2.00 and
completion of at least 27.1 credits (third-semester standing).
Students can enter open-access majors at any time after these
requirements are met.
Conditional-access majors: Some majors have additional
requirements, such as stronger academic records or special talents,
before a student can enter the major. Specific examples of these
additional conditions include a higher CGPA, completion of
specific courses, a grade of C or higher in certain courses or a
successful audition or portfolio review, (ie. Film/Video). Students
may enter these majors after the additional conditions have been
met.
Controlled-access majors: A few majors may have more
applicants than can be accommodated due to limitations of space,
faculty or other resources. Students can apply for these majors
only at a particular time, usually the spring semester of the
sophomore year (the “pool” semester). To be guaranteed entrance
to these majors, students must complete the required courses by
the end of the pool semester (often with a grade of C or higher)
and have a CGPA of 3.00 (or higher, for some majors) in the
semester preceding the pool semester. For example, the
Advertising/Public Relations major requires a 3.30 CGPA and
completion of several core courses by the student’s pool semester.
College of Communications
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Office of Multicultural Affairs
Students from racial and ethnic groups account for more than
13 percent of the College of Communications’ undergraduate
population. Diversity among students and faculty is a top
priority for the dean and faculty.
Services
The Office of Multicultural Affairs provides academic, financial,
personal and career counseling to all students.
Scholarships
The college provides scholarship programs specifically
identifying students from underrepresented groups for national,
College of Communications and university-wide grant and
scholarship awards. These opportunities can be found online at
http://comm.psu.edu/current/scholarships-and-award-descriptions.
Recruitment Phone-A-Thon
Diverse undergraduate and graduate students conduct annual
phone-a-thons to recruit diverse students and assist with
admissions applications.
MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS
Student Organizations
Asian/Hispanic/African/ Native American Student
Organization: The Asian/Hispanic/African/Native American
Student Organization (AHANA) was created to celebrate the
many cultural heritages within the College of Communications.
AHANA brings in industry professionals to share their
experiences within the communications field. Diversity is
celebrated through heritage programs and other activities.
Diversity Ambassadors: Diversity Ambassadors is an organization of
talented students who have dedicated their time and effort to
assisting new students with their development and adjustment to the
College of Communications and Penn State. The diversity student
peer-mentoring program provides every new student of color with a
ambassador to assist with their academic pursuits, personal growth and
leadership development during their first year of college.
Diversity Scholars: Diversity Scholars is a group of highly motivated
academic achievers who meet monthly to enhance their academic,
personal, professional and leadership skills by interacting with
exceptional faculty, staff, alums and distinguished visitors from the
communications industry. The group includes Dean’s List Scholars,
scholarship recipients and students in good academic standing.
National Association of Multi-Ethnicities in Communications
(NAMIC): Penn State NAMIC is part of a national
organization, which focuses its attention on the mutual interests
of minority professionals in the communications industry.
Members are provided with the opportunity to participate in a
national network of minority businesses and cable professionals.
Penn State Association of Journalists for Diversity (PSAJD)
and the Penn State student chapter of the National
Association of Black Journalists (NABJ): PSAJD and NABJ
provide opportunities for students to meet broadcast and print
journalists from all ethnic journalism organizations and to
attend national conferences.
The Penn State chapter of Women in Cable and
Telecommunications (WICT): WICT networks with
corporate executives from cable and information management
industries.
College of Communications
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Applying for Financial Aid
Students who want to be considered for all types of aid (grants,
scholarships, loans and work-study) at Penn State are
encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov, even if the student
or family does not believe they will be eligible for aid. Although
students can complete the FAFSA by June 30, it is suggested to
submit the FAFSA by these dates to receive maximum
consideration for student financial aid:
• First-year students (new undergraduate, transfer or graduate
students): March 1
• Current students: April 15.
To receive and retain student financial aid, including the Stafford
and PLUS loans, undergraduate, graduate and professional
students must meet the following eligibility requirements:
• Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
yearly
• Comply with Penn State’s Satisfactory Academic Progress
standards
• Remain in good standing on educational loans and grants
• Remain enrolled for at least six credits if you are an
undergraduate student
• Remain enrolled for five credits; at the 400 level or higher if
you are a graduate student
• Be enrolled in an eligible degree program
• Be a citizen or eligible non-citizen with a valid Social Security
Number
• Have a high school diploma
• Be registered for the Selective Service if you are male and
18-25 years of age
• Comply with all verification requests made by the college
The aid listed on the Student Aid Summary on eLion will be
listed on student’s bill once a student has completed all of the
steps on the Student Aid Summary Checklist. For instance,
students may be asked to verify the information submitted on
the FAFSA.
If registration is completed by the tuition bill due date and have
finalized all action steps on the Student Aid Summary Checklist,
aid should disburse around the first day of classes for the
current semester.
Student aid will be monitored throughout the semester for any
changes in eligibility, which could result in an adjustment to aid
per federal regulation.
Work Study
Federal Work-Study allows students to earn money to help cover
non-billable educational expenses by working within their
academic college or campus, University office or at an
off-campus, nonprofit organization. Positions are available at
every Penn State campus. For eligibility and application
procedures, visit http://studentaid.psu.edu/types-of-aid/workstudy-and-employment/work-study.
FINANCIAL AID
Types of Aid
There is a variety of aid available to every Penn State student.
Students may apply for different types of aid by filling out the
FAFSA and the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance
Agency (PHEAA) website. Detailed information can be found at
http://studentaid.psu.edu/types-of-aid/.
Loans
The Federal Direct Stafford Loan is available through the
William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program to help pay for
educational expenses. The Penn State Office of Student Aid
awards Stafford Subsidized or Stafford Unsubsidized Loans or a
combination of both, based on financial need.
The Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan is available to parents
of dependent undergraduate students. Parents may need funds in
addition to a student’s Stafford Loan to pay for education.
Private alternative loans are managed through private lenders,
issued in the student’s name and require a co-signer. Eligibility,
rates, terms and conditions vary.
The Federal Perkins Loan is for undergraduate and graduate
students and offers a five percent fixed rate with zero origination
fees.
The University Loan is for undergraduate students and offers a
six percent fixed, low-interest loan with zero origination fees.
Grants
The Federal Pell Grant is funded by the U.S. Department of
Education to students with demonstrated financial need. Grants
do not need to be repaid.
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant is
awarded by the Office of Student Aid to students with
demonstrated high financial need.
The Pennsylvania State Grant is funded by the Commonwealth
and awarded by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance
Agency (PHEAA) to undergraduate Pennsylvania residents who
demonstrate high financial need.
Institutional Grants are awarded by the University to
undergraduate students with demonstrated high financial need.
Out-of-State grant information can be found online at
http://studentaid.psu.edu/types-of-aid/grants/for-out-of-stateresidents.
College of Communications
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In the College of Communications, students work hard and are
rewarded for their excellence in the classroom.
Thanks to the contributions of individuals and foundations,
the College of Communications continues to award more than
$630,000 of scholarship support to communications students
each year.
Most scholarships are awarded by a scholarship committee in
May to apply toward the following year’s expenses. Students at
the University Park campus interested in applying for
scholarships must complete the online application. Students at
non-University Park locations may check with the Office of
Student Aid or officials at their respective campus about
scholarship opportunities.
Forms to File
• The College of Communications Scholarship Application
Form (required to be considered for any scholarship from the
College) available online.
• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal and State Aid) is
required for scholarships that stipulate financial need. In order to
establish and document your financial need, you must complete
this form in accordance with instructions from the Office of
Student Aid. The form is available at
http://www.psu.edu/studentaid/index.shtml online.
This financial statement should be filed as soon as possible after
Jan. 1 and no later than April 15. This form is required for any
scholarship awarded for “demonstrated financial need,” and
more than 95 percent of College of Communications
scholarships require that proof. If you have questions about
the FAFSA form, please contact the Office of Student Aid by
phone (814-865-6301).
AWARDING EXCELLENCE
Disbursement
After the start of classes in the fall, scholarship monies will be
awarded to the student’s account in the Office of the University
Bursar and disbursed as stipulated by the scholarship guidelines.
However, monies will not be released from the Bursar account
until we receive a thank-you letter to the scholarship donor, per
the instructions in the notification letter. All scholarships require a
thank-you letter.
Renewals
Scholarships are not automatically renewable and a new
scholarship application should be filed each year.
Notification
Scholarship awarding is an ongoing process; however, the
majority of the awarding is completed in June before the
upcoming academic year. Students will be notified by an email to
their Penn State address. Only recipients are notified. If a student
does not receive a scholarship in the first round, the application
will be kept on file for the academic year and will be reconsidered
if additional funds become available.
Online applications for the College of Communications must be
submitted by April 15, 2012, for the 2012-2013 academic year.
Eligibility
Recipient selection is based on the pre-set criteria established for
each scholarship. While on scholarship, students must continue
to meet the eligibility requirements:
• Declare a major in the College of Communications at
University Park
• Complete a full-time course load (12 or more credits per
semester with a requirement of 30 credits per year)
• Maintain a respectful cumulative GPA
• Attend scholarship recognition events as requested
College of Communications
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DIVING INTO SPORTS JOURNALISM
Gain experience in the exciting world of athletics. Founded in
2003, the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism in the
College of Communications provides students both classroom
and real world experiences that gives them the edge in the
fast-paced world of professional sports. The Center offers
courses in sports writing, sports broadcasting, sports
information and sports, media and society. The Center also
features special lectures, workshops, mentoring, and networking
opportunities.
The John Curley Center for Sports Journalism explores issues
and trends in sports journalism through instruction, outreach,
programming and research.
How to Apply
Students interested in the Center’s academic programs must
be in good standing at the University and have completed the
prerequisite classes (COMM 260W and/or COMM 360) before
applying to take courses in the sports journalism emphasis.
In addition, students applying for admission must submit a
resume, an unofficial transcript, and a writing sample.
Applications are accepted each fall and information will be
posted at http://www.comm.psu.edu/sports online.
A Note From Director Malcolm Moran
Students in the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism have
reported, broadcast or blogged on events from Madison Square
Garden in New York City to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.
Undergraduate interns or free-lance reporters have had their
work appear in The New York Times, Detroit Free Press, The
Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Daily News, and Washington
Post. Their work has been published by the Associated Press
and broadcast on the Big Ten Network and YES Network. Penn
State led the nation with four associate reporters at mlb.com
during the 2010 season, covering teams from the Boston Red
Sox to the Minnesota Twins.
Recent graduates have covered the World Series, Super Bowl,
NCAA basketball tournament, Winter Olympic Games, and the
FIFA World Cup soccer tournament. They have earned national
recognition from the Association for Women in Sports Media
and Jim Murray Memorial Foundation.
Internship Opportunities
Students who have been a part of the John Curley Center for
Sports Journalism have gone on to obtain top internships in the
professional sports field. Examples of internships include:
• 1250 ESPN Radio
• 97.5 The Fanatic ESPN Radio
• Comcast Sports Net
• KCAL/KCBS Sports
• Madison Square Garden
• MLB.com
• MLB Network
• Penn State Intercollegiate Athletics
• Philadelphia Eagles
• Pittsburgh Pirates
• Pittsburgh Riverhounds
• Pittsburgh Steelers
• ProPlayer Video
• State College Spikes
• United Sports Training Center
• Washington Redskins
• Westwood One Sports
• WFAN-AM “The Fan”
• Wilmington Blue Rocks
Who is John Curley?
John Curley believed the strong journalism program and the
University’s tradition-rich athletics were a perfect match for a
sports journalism center. He served as founding co-director with
Dean Doug Anderson when the Center was created in 2003.
Former president, chairman and CEO of Gannet Co. Inc. and
first editor of USA Today.
People
Marie Hardin, Associate Professor, Associate Dean for
Administration and Special Programs and Associate Director for
Research
Dave Baker, Instructor, Sports Information
Steve Jones, Instructor, Sports Broadcasting
Mike Poorman, Senior Lecturer, Sports Writing
Doug Anderson, Dean and Professor, Founding Co-Director
Jamey Perry, Assistant Dean, Academic Services
Steve Sampsell, Director, College Relations
An HD television studio and digital media center is housed in
the College of Communications. Students will have access to a
separate state-of-the-art broadcast facility created by the athletic
department. The creation of Division I men’s and women’s ice
hockey in 2012 will increase the number of varsity programs to
31 and add more opportunities to cover sports at Penn State.
College of Communications
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LEARNING FROM PROFESSIONALS
For Penn State College of Communications students,
learning does not stop inside the classroom. Students are
constantly engaged by Penn State alumni and other distinguished
professionals.
Through a variety of events, lectures, and special programs
across all of its departments and majors, the College of
Communications brings nationally and internationally respected
experts to a campus to interact with its students on a regular
basis. Past lecture topics and speakers include:
Bronstein Lecture in Ethics and Public Relations
Alumnus Ben Bronstein (’61 Journ), a longtime supporter of
the University, endowed the lecture in order to support special
events in the College of Communications.
Bronstein was the founding director of public relations at the
Penn State College of Medicine and Hershey Medical Center
and held director positions in public relations at two statewide
healthcare associations.
As an undergraduate, Bronstein was editor of the Penn State
Student Handbook, a sportswriter for The Daily Collegian,
secretary-treasurer of the Interfraternity Council (IFC),
secretary of the IFC Board of Control (judicial/disciplinary
body), president of Phi Sigma Delta social fraternity and a
member of Lion’s Paw and Skull and Bones senior leadership
honor societies.
Previous speakers have included Patricia Whalen from DePaul
University, Dale Davenport from The Patriot-News and Jennifer
Palmieri from the Center for American Progress
Davis Symposium in Advertising Ethics
The Department of Advertising and Public Relations and the
Don Davis Program in Ethical Leadership regularly conduct the
Donald W. Davis Symposium. The symposium was made
possible through the generous support of alumnus Donald W.
Davis Jr. (‘42 Journ), who established the program in 2005 to
honor the memory of his father, former Penn State professor
Donald W. Davis Sr. He was named a Distinguished Alumnus of
Penn State, the highest honor the University bestows upon its
alumni, in 1972. He went on to be the CEO of Stanley Works,
a “Fortune 200” company and one of the largest international
manufacturers of builders’ hardware and tools.
Foster-Foreman Conference of Distinguished
Writers
The twice-a-year Foster-Foreman Conference of Distinguished
Writers regularly attracts some of the best writers in the country
to campus for free public lectures and to work in hands-on and
small-group sessions with students in the College of
Communications. More than 35 Pulitzer Prize winners have been
part of the conference since its inception in 1999.
Hearst Foundation Guest Lecturers
With support from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation,
visitors who have shared their experience with each of the four
departments in the College during the past year have included
professionals from across the communications field.
Oweida Lecture in Journalism Ethics
Established in 1994, the Dr. N.N. Oweida Lecture in Journalism
Ethics is supported by an endowment from Margaret L. Oweida
in memory of her husband, the late Dr. N.N. Oweida, a surgeon
from New Kensington, Pa. The lecture focuses on journalism
ethics, and previous visitors for the lecture have focused on
theoretical and practical challenges that face journalists every day
in regard to ethics.
Palmer Chair Lecture in Telecommunications
The Palmer Chair in Telecommunications Studies, and associated
programming such as the Palmer Chair Lecture, was created in
1988 with initial contributions of $1.5 million from State College
residents and cable television pioneers James R. and Barbara R.
Palmer.
An honorary Penn State alumnus, James Palmer was the former
director of the National Cable Television Association, founding
president of the Association of Cable Television Suppliers and
honorary chair of the College of Communications portion of the
Grand Destiny Campaign.
Pockrass Memorial Lecture
The Pockrass Memorial Lecture was named after the late
Professor Robert M. Pockrass, a member of Penn State’s
journalism faculty from 1948 to 1977. Pockrass, who specialized
in public opinion and popular culture, served as the graduate
officer and taught radio news writing for the School of
Journalism, which later became the College of Communications.
The symposium is intended perpetuate the ideals of ethics in
advertising that Davis Sr. maintained throughout his professional
and academic careers. The elder Davis established the
University’s advertising program in 1936. He also published his
Basic Text in Advertising, which emphasized the “continuing fight
for standards,” and exemplified his approach to advertising.
College of Communications
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LEARNING OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
Internships are a great way for students to gain hands-on
experience in the real world of communications. This internship
program allows students to delve into the majors they are
exploring, gain skills for the future and find a true interest in
course work.
The College of Communications offers a for-credit internship
course, COMM 495, which can be applied to each each major.
Guidance is provided to students when choosing an internship
in the Office of Internships and Career Placement. The full-time
internship staff maintain an ever-growing list of internships to
assist more than 600 students in the College of Communications
who complete for-credit internships each summer. Internships
can also be completed during the fall and spring semesters.
Most students take COMM 495 for three credits, which is
approximately 200 hours of internship experience. The course
can also be taken for one or two credits with proportionately
fewer hours for fewer credits.
Companies our students have interned at include:
ABC News
Associated Press
Bryce Jordan Center
CBS News
Clear Channel
Comedy Central
Country Music Hall of Fame
Discovery Channel
E! News & Entertainment
Fleishman-Hillard
Fox News Broadcasting
HBO
Johnson & Johnson
LiveNation
MLB
National Geographic
New York Times
Ogilvy & Mather
Penn State Athletics
Scripps Network
Sony Pictures
Times
VH1 Television
Walt Disney Company
Access Hollywood
Billboard
Calvin Klein
Centre Daily Times
Comcast
Conde Nast Publications
Dell
Edelman Public Relations
ESPN.com
Food Network
General Electric
Hearst Magazines
Ketchum Public Relations
McGraw-Hill
MTV Networks
NBC News
NFL
Paramount Pictures
Proctor & Gamble
Sirius XM
Teen Vogue
Touchstone Pictures
Viacom
USA Today
Washington Program
Washington, D.C. is a city that offers a wide variety of
academic, professional and cultural opportunities for
undergraduates. From Capitol Hill to CNN and the
Smithsonian, students have the chance to gain valuable
on-the-job experience and work with professionals in their
fields. The Penn State Washington Program gives students the
opportunity to tap into all the resources the city has to offer.
Established in 1995, the Washington program was started to
give students a complete Washington experience, including
internship placement and credit, housing and special events
and programs. Students from all areas of the University have
participated in the Washington Program. Over the years,
students have worked for organizations like the American
Civil Liberties Union, CNN, the Environmental Protection
Agency, the office of Sen. Arlen Specter and the
Organization of American States.
Questions? Contact:
Robert D. Richards
College of Communications
Phone: (814) 863-1900
Email: rdr2@psu.edu
Scott Colburn
Washington Program Coordinator
Phone: (215) 801-6737
Email: sbc136@psu.edu
JobExpo.Comm(unications)
Each spring, business from across many communications
fields come to Happy Valley to network with College of
Communications students and alumni. This event provides
students and alumni with the chance to meet prospective
employers. In the past 12 years, more than 580 companies
and 5,000 students have attended the event. Businesses
looking to fill entry-level positions come to the University
Park campus to find students with practical experience who
can quickly become contributing members of an
organization.
Success in the City
Get prepared for life after Penn State. College of
Communications students are given a networking opportunity
right in the heart of New York City through Success in the
City each spring. This internship and job placement fair offers
students the opportunity to sharpen their professional skills
under the critical eyes of practitioners and to explore career
interests.
If you have questions about these events, please feel free
to contact Bob Martin at (814) 863-4674 or by e-mail at
rpm163@psu.edu.
College of Communications
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DID YOU KNOW?
Did You Know...
• Penn State was ranked #1 by corporate recruiters in the Wall
Street Journal.
• 625 for-credit internships are completed each year.
• More than 20 student communication organizations.
• Professionals in the communications field offer their expertise
to students through a lecture series.
• Students have the pportunity to become an intern with the
Washington Program in the nation’s capital.
• The Communicator, a magazine about the College’s alumni, is
published twice a year.
• More than 100 scholarships are available to students in the
College of Commnications each year.
• The College of Communications is the largest accredited mass
communications program in the country.
• Small class sizes provide hands-on experience.
• Innovation Park is a high tech operation center that gives
students exposure to the real world.
• Students can experience the fast-paced world of professional
sports in the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism.
• Students travel into New York City every spring to network for
jobs at “Success in the City.”
• Penn State’s student-run daily newspaper, The Daily Collegian,
has a circulation of 19,000 and is a nationally recognized
publication.
College of Communications