Bachelor's Programme in Communication Studies

Study programme code BACKOM

ECTS credits 180

Admission requirements Higher Education Entrance Qualification.

Recommended previous knowledge Applicants are expected to be interested in languages, writing and practical communication. The study programme aims to reach a broad target group of students who wish to strength their skill level within linguistic and media-based communication, both theoretically and practically.

General description and profile of the programme

Communication will be studied from a humanities perspective, and the programme aims to develop students´ theoretical and practical competence. The choice of theory and methods of work is intended to create an awareness of how to become creative producers of text and information within various genres. The dissemination of texts is central. Verbal and visual communication are seen as two sides of the same coin, and knowledge of text genres is linked to knowledge of media technology and function. The aim is that students should be able to develop both content and channel competence and thus be capable of critically and reflectively carrying out a communication process from the concept stage to the finished media product. The study programme will also give students an introduction to research and development work in the field.

The programme includes 80 study points of advanced work. Six of the ten topics that comprise this work are on Level 1, while two of the topics (total of 20 study points) are on Level 2, meaning that they are based on more fundamental topics studied during students´ first academic year.

Within the elective component of the study programme, students may choose several topics within communication, but the programme may also include languages, social studies, fine arts or library topics. In addition, topics or courses within other relevant academic areas may be approved upon application. At least 30 study points of the elective component must be within one academic area of study.

Compulsory courses on level 1:
KOM103-2 Digital Presentation
KOM104-1 Text and Image

Optional courses of advanced work on level 1:
NO-100-1 Text and Interpretation
KOM101-2 Mass Communication
KOM102-2 Interpersonal communication
KOM105-1 Sound and Video
KOM106-1 Genre and Aesthetics

Compulsory courses on level 2:
KOM200-1 Media Production
KOM202-1 Bachelor's Assignment

Specific arrangements for recognition of prior learning (formal, non-formal and informal) Arrangements for the recognition of prior learning are described in the information on the institution under "General arrangements for the recognition of prior learning (formal, informal and non-formal)".

Examination regulations and grading For a description of the examination regulations, see the Examination Regulations of the University of Agder.

For information about the Norwegian grading system, see ECTS credits and grades. Specific information on grading for each course is found in the individual course descriptions.

Graduation requirements The Examination Regulations of the University of Agder regulate the graduation requirements for each programme of study.

Learning outcomes After the course the students should
- have knowledge about how to use texts and media in different communications processes
- have insight into the media´s role in society
- be able to analyse and compare current events within communication
- demonstrate critical and creative assessment concerning own and other communicative processes
- be able to accomplish communication projects from an idea to a finished product within a variety of media
- have insight into linguistic, media and social conditions for achieving successful communication
- demonstrate an understanding about the criteria for relevant research activity in the area

Teaching methods The organisation of courses has been made with a view to varied forms of study and a variation of issues. The study is a combination of lectures, seminars, group work and individual assignments.

Assessment methods Written in-school examinations, group examinations, indivudual home assignments, project assignments, short-answer tests and portfolios. Forms of examinations for each course are listed in the individual course descriptions.

Student exchange A study period abroad (30 to 60 credits) may be included in one or two of the final three semesters (the optional or extension parts of the study). Contact the International Office for information about student exchange possibilities.

Requirements for continuing in the study programme

To enrol in the extension programme (Level 2), students must have completed 40 credits from the one-year programme (Level 1) in communication and Norwegian courses. The course NO-100 Text and Interpretation (or the equivalent) must be passed before students may register for the examination in the course KOM201 Discourse Analysis. Prerequisites for the examination in KOM200 Media Production 2 are the following: at least one of the courses KOM100 Text Design and Presentation, KOM103 Digital Presentation, KOM104 Text and Image (or the equivalent) must have been completed.

Occupational profiles of graduates and access to further studies The programme qualifies graduates for admission to a number of Master's degree programmes such as media studies, languages, cultural studies or journalism, depending on the choice of courses and specific entrance requirements. With 30 ECTS credits of Nordic literature in the optional component, the programme qualifies graduates for the Master's degree programme in Nordic Languages and Literature at the University of Agder.

Qualification awarded Bachelor's Degree in Communication

Other information Examinations from one-year study programmes or components thereof in Language, Communication and Technology may be included in the Bachelor´s Degree in Communication upon application. The one-year study programme in Nordic Languages or within Media and Communication will grant an exemption for certain components of the study programme dependent upon previous examinations and reading lists. Contact the faculty for further information.
Students choosing to take Examen Philosophicum and Examen Facultatum on Lesbos must contact their student advisor in order to adjust their educational programme.

Contact person Martin Engebretsen (38142085, martin.engebretsen@uia.no)