Department of Humanities and Communication

Humanistic Intelligence in a STEM World

Overview

The Department of Humanities and Communication equips students with the critical thinking, communication, and cultural literacy skills essential for success in high-tech industries. Grounded in the philosophy of "Humanistic Intelligence in a STEM World," the department integrates humanities-based inquiry with the demands of aviation, aerospace, and emerging technologies, ensuring that students develop the strategic, ethical, and analytical abilities to navigate and lead in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Through its general education curriculum, the department challenges students to see beyond technical problem-solving, fostering a deeper understanding of how science, business, and policy are shaped by cultural forces (and vice versa). The department’s STEM-designated B.S. in Communication offers a unique pathway for students interested in high-impact careers in aviation, technology, and crisis communication, while its minor in Humanistic STEM and its minor in Communication provide interdisciplinary learning experiences that connect technical expertise with human-centered insight.

With a growing emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital humanities, the department also leads the way in preparing students to engage with AI as both a tool and a subject of ethical inquiry. Faculty experts in composition, literature, history, communication, and ethics offer courses that push students to think critically, communicate effectively, and understand the broader implications of technology, culture, and policy.

By bridging the gap between STEM and society, the Department of Humanities and Communication ensures that students are not just technical experts—but leaders, innovators, and ethical decision-makers in an increasingly complex world.

Bachelor of Science in Communication

In an era where technology, media, and global challenges shape every industry, skilled communicators are more critical than ever. The STEM-designated Bachelor of Science in Communication (CIP code 09.0702) equips students with the expertise to bridge the gap between technical fields and the public, ensuring that complex information is communicated clearly, strategically, and with impact.

This program trains students to gather, analyze, and communicate critical information across diverse industries, from aviation and aerospace to crisis response and emerging technologies. Students develop advanced writing, visual, and digital communication skills, learning to represent information effectively across multiple platforms while engaging with key issues in media literacy, public relations, law, and communication strategy.

Students specialize in one of two high-demand areas:

• Crisis, Risk & Resilience Communication – Focuses on crisis management, emergency response, and risk communication, training students for careers in crisis communication, emergency management, and public affairs.
• Aviation, Science & Technology Communication – Prepares students for careers in public relations, technical communication, and media strategy within STEM-driven industries, including aviation, aerospace, and emerging technologies.

To tailor their degree to personal interests and career goals, students can minor in complementary fields such as International Relations, Marketing, or Project Management. The program culminates in either a Senior Project or an Internship, providing real-world experience and hands-on application of strategic communication skills in high-stakes environments.

Graduates of the B.S. in Communication program leave prepared to lead in industries where communication is not just a skill—but a strategic advantage.

Minor in Communication

Designed for students eager to bridge the gap between science, technology, and effective communication, the Communication Minor provides a strong foundation in modern communication strategies, media literacy, and professional writing. Through hands-on experience and analysis of new media, students gain the skills needed to translate complex information for diverse audiences, making them invaluable assets in STEM-driven industries.

Minor in Crisis, Risk & Resilience Communication

As industries and societies face increasing uncertainty, the ability to communicate risk, manage crises, and foster resilience is more critical than ever. The one-of-a-kind Crisis, Risk and Resilience Communication Minor prepares students to navigate high-stakes communication challenges, equipping them with expertise in risk assessment, crisis response, emergency management, and public affairs. Students develop the ability to communicate effectively across the phases of the national preparedness cycle, while gaining insights into the historical, legal, and policy foundations of crisis communication in an all-hazards, whole-community context.

Minor in Humanistic STEM

In a world driven by science and technology, critical thinking, communication, and interdisciplinary problem-solving are essential. The Humanistic STEM minor provides students with the ability to think beyond academic silos, integrating perspectives from Humanities and STEM to tackle real-world challenges creatively and ethically. By developing strong analytical and communication skills, students gain a competitive edge in STEM, business, and policy-driven fields, demonstrating to employers that they can navigate both technical and human dimensions of complex problems.

Enroll today and get a head start on becoming the leader of tomorrow.

Research Guides

Humanities & Communication

Undergraduate Minors