Department of Theatre and Design

Professional Development & Career Resources

The Department of Communication Studies helps students prepare for careers through job awareness activities, research opportunities, internships, conference attendance, mock interviews, an honor society and a host of special projects.

Department Professional Development Activities


Career Preparation and Skills Training


Students in the Department of Communication Studies develop a skill base that prepares them to work as communication professionals in virtually every field that values leadership potential, persuasive presentation abilities, team collaboration and creativity. In fact our alumni  find work in nearly every business industry.

Communication job titles run the gamut, including:

  • Activities director / recreational coordinator
  • Advertising executive
  • Alumni coordinator
  • Arts administrator
  • Community relations director
  • Communication trainer
  • Customer service representative
  • Events planner
  • Fashion merchandiser
  • Debate coach
  • Forensics
  • Human resources manager
  • Human rights officer
  • Labor negotiator
  • Lobbyist
  • Market researcher
  • Media account specialist
  • Motivational speaker
  • Multicultural specialist / diversity consultant
  • Organizational / communication consultant
  • Production assistant
  • Public affairs director
  • Publications manager
  • Public information officer
  • Publicist
  • Public opinion researcher
  • Sales consultant
  • Sports announcer
  • Speech writer
  • Training specialist
  • Tour guide
  • Television reporter
  • Volunteer program coordinator
  • Wedding consultant
Throughout Communication Studies coursework, students conduct exercises that prepare them for real-world professional challenges. Such in-class training includes:
  • Preparing for employment: resume and cover letter writing, interviewing skills and professional networking
  • Chairing small group meetings using parliamentary procedure (includes composing agendas and meeting minutes)
  • Developing and delivering presentations with multi-media support
  • Conducting public relations projects: creating press kits, writing news releases and maintaining media contact lists
  • Conducting communication audits and writing executive reports for "real-life" organizations
  • Creating brand logos and marketing slogans

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Communication Studies Internship Program

Internship Program Coordinator:

CART - Elaine Russo - 973.655.7495

Department -
           Dr. Harry Haines - 973.655.7471

           Janet Wilson - 973.655.7471

The Department of Communication Studies has developed and maintains a strong internship program with a rich history of regional partnerships. Through this program, qualifying students gain hands-on experience with a wide range of communication professions, including, but not limited to:

  • Public relations
  • Organizational consulting
  • Human resources management
  • Mass media production (television, radio, film, print)
  • Event planning/implementation
  • Talent agencies
  • Museums
  • Fashion industry
  • Government agencies
  • Nonprofit organizations
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Following are important resources for prospective and current interns, organizational partners, on-site supervisors and faculty advisors:


Resources for Prospective Interns

These instructions, forms and other documents are for prospective interns. Questions may be directed to the Internship Program Coordinator.

Internship Program  Qualifications for Admission

Internship Program  Academic and On-site Requirements

Internship Program  Application Form

 
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Resources for Accepted/Current Interns

These instructions, forms and other documents are for students who have recently been accepted into the Internship Program or who are currently participating in internships. Questions may be directed to the Internship Program Coordinator.

Internship Program  Student Handbook

Internship Program  Internship-Finder Database (requires password log-in)

Internship Program Academic Contract Form

Internship Program  On-Site Contract Form

Mid-term On-Site Intern Evaluation Form (for supervisors to complete)

End-of-term On-Site Intern Evaluation Form (for supervisors to complete)

 
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Resources for Internship Partner Organizations

These instructions, forms and other documents are for the Internship Program's organizational partners. Questions may be directed to the Internship Program Coordinator.

Internship Program  Partner Handbook

Internship  On-Site Contract Form (to be completed jointly with interns)

Mid-term On-Site Intern Evaluation Form (for supervisors to complete)

End-of-term On-Site Intern Evaluation Form (for supervisors to complete)

 
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Resources for Faculty Advisors

These instructions, forms and other documents are for Department of Communication faculty members who are overseeing students internship experiences.

Internship Program  Faculty Handbook

Internship Program  Internship-Finder Database (requires password log-in)

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Communication Studies Associations and Conferences


Communication scholars and practitioners are supported by many excellent membership associations. These organizations provide vital resources for current and aspiring communication professionals, including journals, conferences, employment postings, online discussion boards and career advisement. Some prominent international, national and regional associations include:

 

 

 



To search for communication-related journal articles



To join an online discussion forum that is managed by the National Communication Association

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Study Abroad

MSU's Study Abroad, Summer Abroad and International Tours provide global exposure and cultural immersion, enhancing one's development of intercultural communication skills.

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Online Career Resources


Research and networking helps students develop a more in-depth understanding of the profession and preparedness for a career. The Web links below are provided as a research tool for students.


Public Relations, Advertising and General

Special Event Planning

Writing /Editing



Publishing

Entertainment

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