Mass Communication
Shape the Future of Media With a Major in Mass Communication From UNC Asheville
UNC Asheville’s Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication prepares students to think critically about media while creating content that informs, entertains, and inspires. With access to innovative facilities and mentorship from industry-experienced faculty, students develop practical skills in journalism, film, advertising, public relations, and digital media. This combination of hands-on training and liberal arts foundation equips graduates to thrive in diverse media industries or pursue advanced study in communication, journalism, law, and related fields.
Dynamic Curriculum
The mass communication program at UNC Asheville offers a diverse and dynamic curriculum that provides students with a strong foundation in the field. Majors take core courses in journalism, video production, communication theory, media law, and ethics before tailoring their studies to develop expertise in a chosen media area. Combined with the liberal arts foundation and interdisciplinary coursework, graduates gain the knowledge and versatility to thrive in today’s ever-evolving media industries.
Career Paths
A degree in Mass Communication from UNC Asheville prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in media and communication, including journalism, film and video production, public relations, marketing, and social media management. The program also builds strong analytical and communication skills that open doors to graduate study in fields such as communication, journalism, and law, as well as careers in teaching, corporate management, and other industries where effective storytelling and critical thinking are essential.
Internships
Experiential learning is one of the most impactful ways Mass Communication majors prepare for careers in media and communication. Students gain real-world experience through internships in journalism, public relations, film, marketing, and digital media, applying classroom knowledge in professional settings. These opportunities allow students to build strong portfolios, develop industry connections, and gain valuable experience that enhances their résumés and graduate school applications.
Tell Stories That Matter
Gain the skills and experiences to share powerful ideas, connect with audiences, and make an impact in today’s fast-changing world of communication.
My public relations class, MCOM 293, with Dr. DiPalma, offered a strong foundation to build off of when working with paid, owned and earned media. This has helped in the creation and monitoring of advertising campaigns. The skills gained as the Blue Banner’s social media editor prepared me to create graphics for ads and materials for conferences such as workbooks, flyers, banners, presentations, videos and more. Learning how to effectively engage with my local community in Dr. O’Brien’s MCOM 395 course has helped in every interaction I have had with our clients. My time in Dr. Meadow’s Advocacy Journalism Seminar strengthened my writing and research skills utilized within client communication, various reports and presentations and preparing social media posts.
Hone Your Skills
With the guidance of our experienced faculty and connection with UNC Asheville resources, our graduates are well-positioned to pursue their career goals and make an impact in the always-transforming world of communication. Our graduates hold professional positions such as guest relations associate, marketing communications coordinator, community engagement manager, marketing consultant, undergraduate communications specialist, director of digital branding and e-commerce, and more. Alums also complete graduate degrees in mass communication, media studies, journalism, and film.
Lauren Boyle
Lauren Boyle worked with her senior seminar class and Anne Slatton, a mass communication assistant professor, to publish a podcast about diversity in the classroom. The podcast was titled “UNCA Identity, More than a Four Year Institution."
Addison Wright
McCullough Fellow Addison Wright partnered with Food Justice Policy Initiative to conduct research and analysis on food inequity and communication around food work in Western North Carolina.
Christopher Kane
See how alumni Christopher Kane works at The Washington Blade, America’s oldest LGBTQ news organization, where he serves as the White House correspondent and senior politics reporter.
Connecting to Careers
Mass Communication students were given a tour of WLOS, Asheville's local ABC news affiliate, as part of a Career Trek offered by the career center.
Mass Communications Scholarships
Mass Communications Scholarships
UNC Asheville offers a range of scholarships to support Mass Communication majors in pursuing their academic and creative goals. These awards recognize student achievement, potential, and passion for media, helping make your education more affordable while encouraging your growth as a communicator.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
The Blue Banner
The Blue Banner is UNC Asheville’s student-run news outlet, publishing a website, YouTube channel and occasional print issues. Written, edited, and produced entirely by students from all majors, the Banner serves as a designated public forum for free speech on campus. Editors welcome contributions from students, faculty, staff, and alumni, making it a vibrant platform for campus dialogue and storytelling. The publication has also earned statewide recognition, with students winning multiple awards from the N.C. College Media Association for excellence in writing, photography, design, and multimedia journalism.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Mass Communication Media Lab
The Media Lab gives Mass Communication students access to professional-grade equipment and collaborative space to bring their ideas to life. From video production and audio recording to digital design and editing, the lab provides the tools and support needed to create high-quality projects and gain hands-on experience beyond the classroom.
Meet the Faculty
Meet the Faculty
UNC Asheville’s Mass Communication Department has a team of passionate faculty members who teach both theory and practice, providing students with a well-rounded, comprehensive education. Besides teaching, they also participate in research and community involvement, making valuable contributions to the field of mass communication.
Ready for what’s next?
In the Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication program, you’ll learn how to create compelling content that informs, entertains, and inspires. With innovative facilities and a faculty of industry experts, you’ll develop the skills to launch a successful career in a variety of industries, from journalism and film to advertising and public relations.
Join our community of passionate and engaged students and discover the endless possibilities of a mass communication degree!