Department of Communications
Communications Major
Department Chair
Otis Thomas
Professor and Program Coordinator, Broadcast Journalism, Director of BSU-TV and WBSU Radio
301-860-3711
othomas@bowiestate.edu
MLK Jr. Communication Arts Center, Room 0264
Reach Out
Earn Your Communications Degree at Bowie State
Join the next generation of communications leaders who create meaningful content for diverse audiences and media platforms. You’ll publish stories in our student-run newspaper and magazine, operate the camera in our campus TV studio or write about the latest news in public relations. Study with faculty who bring decades of experience and incorporate the latest technology in their instruction. You’ll be prepared for careers in one of four concentrations: Broadcast Journalism, Print Journalism, Public relations or Emerging Media.
Join Us in the DMV
Bowie State is situated near the intersection of D.C., Maryland and Virginia (DMV), which makes it ideal for gaining experience in internships and figuring out career paths across a range of fields. These include local or national government, journalism, think tanks, social movements, education, healthcare, policy, philanthropy or nonprofits with the area.
Explore specific interests driven by your career goals through four concentrations.
Broadcast Journalism
Jump in front of the camera or get behind the scenes in the studio as you learn how to operate camera equipment, conduct interviews and develop your on-air personality. You’ll put classroom learning to the test as you produce cable, radio and online streaming content for BSU-TV and WBSU Bulldog Radio.
For more information, contact Dr. Otis Thomas, othomas@bowiestate.edu
Print Journalism
Harness your writing, editing and information gathering skills with guidance from our faculty. You can expect to work together with your peers to digitally produce The Spectrum student newspaper or put together our magazine, The FLOW. Shape how we view our communities and the world around us with the stories you publish.
For more information, contact Dr. Karima Haynes, khaynes@bowiestate.edu
Strategic Public Relations
Learn how to craft the voice of a brand and attract an audience as you navigate industries like sports, entertainment, tech and politics. Harness social media, digital marketing and writing skills as you publish press releases, produce a podcast, design a website and track marketing campaigns. Bring all your skills together in the Strategic Public Relations capstone, which operates as a real public relations firm with clients and projects.
For more information, contact Dr. Rochelle Daniel, rdaniel@bowiestate.edu
Emerging Media
Understand each layer of how modern media functions from historic to modern approaches and become an expert in mass communications. Expect to learn everything from media planning and production to distribution and sales to prepare you for the next evolution in the shifting media landscape.
For more information, contact Dr. Dwight Ellis, dellis@bowiestate.edu
On-Campus Opportunities
Radio & TV Stations
WBSU Bulldog Nation Radio and BSU-TV provide high- quality media production of campus projects, sporting and special events, as well as community and educational programs. Get firsthand experience and start your media career.
Communications Career & Internship Resources
Take early advantage of resources like the Career Development Center to get started on finding internships and career planning. Browse through our extensive internship partnerships and discover which experts in the Communications industry will speak at Bowie next.
Student Organizations & Publications
Write for any number of student-led publications like FLOW magazine, The Spectrum or PR Pulse E-Newsletter. Check out the communications honors society, Upsilon Sigma, or join the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) or Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA).
Meet Faculty and Staff
Get to know the expert faculty and staff who’ll be instructing you throughout your time at Bowie State. Build connections, ask for mentorship and receive guidance as you prepare to embark on your career.
Scholarships
Bowie State students have access to an array of scholarships–each with its own set of criteria for consideration. New students are automatically considered for awards based on SAT/ACT scores and GPA provided on admission applications. Students are also encouraged to apply for private donor, departmental and external partner scholarships.
Get Involved with Bowie State
Clubs and Organizations
No matter what your interests are, there is a student organization for you here at Bowie State. You have options ranging from academic and spiritually focused organizations to student leadership, Greek life, student government and commuter involvement. Find your people and get involved today.
Community Service
Gain a greater understanding of your roles in the community, as well as the impact of your contributions toward those in need. Connect with others who understand the importance of community service and build a network of friends, colleagues and team members. Together, we can make a positive impact.
