What You Will Study. How You Will Learn.
Companies and organizations today are looking for individuals who can communicate, think critically and inspire others ethically and effectively. They are looking for leaders.
Communication and Leadership students at the Moody College of Communication develop a skillset to navigate a variety of professional contexts because they build upon the key foundations of leadership and communication. The Communication and Leadership degree plan allows for course customization that provides context and skill in the creation of a next-generation leader.
The interdisciplinary major-specific curriculum is divided into three parts.
To learn more, please review the complete degree requirements or consult the degree checklist.
Curriculum Overview
12 hours
Classes address principles of leadership, communication and ethics.
- Introduction to Communication and Leadership: Study leadership with an emphasis on communication dimensions and an interdisciplinary understanding of social issues
- Seminar on Communication and Leadership: Examine concepts, frameworks and theories related to ethical and effective leadership skills, such as decision-making, motivating and engaging others and managing conflict
- Internship in Communication and Leadership Course: Provides practical experience within an organization or agency. Requires an average of 10 hours per week for a semester term
- Capstone Course: Address advanced topics in leadership, communication, ethics and social change through team projects
Students are encouraged to take the introduction class during their first semester, then take the seminar course soon after to better understand their personal interests and skills, which will frame future courses elections related to foundations, skills and social issues.
12 hours
Students develop expertise in communication approaches, techniques and tactics. Choose from a curated menu of courses tailored to specific interests, such as Advanced Presentation Skills, Team-Based Communication, Strategic Sales and Event Planning and Communication for Development and Philanthropy. Students are also encouraged to explore similar courses offered in the Moody College and petition for credit.
Consult the curriculum overview for all fundamentals and skills course options.
12 hours
Leaders need to be well-versed in solving social problems, and students can pick from a curated menu of course offerings from throughout the university or the Moody College. The curriculum allows for flexibility to choose courses related to one theme -- like gender, race or the environment -- or a variety. Students may also explore other courses offered throughout the university and petition for credit.
Some example courses include:
- Topics in Comparitive Politics: Advanced Media Strategies takes students on a deep-dive in media research and insight generation
- Topics in Critical Black Studies: Beyonce Feminism/Rihanna Womanism
- Studies in American Art and Media Culture: Gender, Race, and Sexuality in Sports Media
Students also take 18-27 hours of free elective. Many students use these electives to complete a minor or certificate that allows them to learn about the context in which they aim to lead.