Communication Studies: Health Communication
The health communication emphasis fosters healthcare-specific relational skills—such as patient outreach, education, and advocacy—giving students who desire to work with patients the opportunity to do so in a nonmedical capacity.
Why should I study health communication?
There is a widening gap in today's healthcare environment between the knowledge obtained by medical professionals and the information understood by patients. The communication studies major with an emphasis in healthcare communication seeks to bridge that gap by introducing students who have a passion for working with people to a niche area.
Students receive a comprehensive introduction to the field of healthcare, explore foundational communication principles, and synthesize these knowledge areas—providing an educational background that will equip them to work in a variety of nonmedical, people-centric healthcare careers. You'll examine the intersection of health and self; how health impacts families; identity and stigma related to medical diagnoses; and the interpersonal communication techniques necessary to become an advocate for patients.
What can I do with this degree?
Students majoring in communication studies with an emphasis in health communication are well suited to employment in:
- Patient outreach, education, and/or advocacy
- Doctor-patient communication
- Healthcare campaigning
- Risk and crisis communication
- Health consulting
You may find work in medical centers, nonprofits, or as part of a ministry or missional organization. A minor in gender studies pairs nicely with this degree.
What skills will I develop?
- Research methods
- Interpersonal communication
- Public speaking
- Intercultural communication
- Reconciliation
- Social outreach and patient advocacy
- Group communication
- Communication analysis
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
Engage in hands-on learning
All students majoring in communication studies with a health communication emphasis complete an internship at an organization within the healthcare industry. Students may partner with Bethel's Center for Healthcare Excellence to find applicable opportunities and build professional connections outside of the communication studies department.
Work in an industry that interests you
Many professionals are unaware of the varied nonmedical opportunities within the healthcare industry that are perfectly suited to their skill sets and interests. By focusing your area of study, you open doors to work in this exciting, growing, influential field. Because your communication studies are paired with knowledge about the healthcare industry specifically, you'll be more qualified to pursue your employment goals within healthcare.
158
students majoring in the department
150
students presented at regional conferences in the past 7 years
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The Communication department does an excellent job providing the tools needed to find a job. I was prepared and confident entering the marketplace, and was able to use the knowledge from my communication coursework to find a good job quickly.
Tyler Jass '11Current job: Student Visitor Program Coordinator and Admissions Counselor at The Evergreen State College, Olympia, WA
My time at Bethel was invaluable and the Communication department was a major part of that. I felt empowered by the professors to be a leader and to create opportunities for myself both personally and professionally.
Meghan Harmison '08Current job: Director of Adult Ministries and Outreach, Salem Lutheran Church
I’m so grateful for my Bethel experience! I cultivated deep friendships and had wonderful leadership and spiritual development opportunities. Combined with, the learning experience and faculty relationships through the Communications and Business departments, it all prepared me for great leadership opportunities.
David Horsager '95, GS'07Current job: Author, Speaker, Consultant and CEO, Horsager Leadership, Inc.
I’m so thankful for this program. Professors provided challenging and thought-provoking courses. They were available to counsel and encourage us in our pursuits. I gained confidence because several professors provided guidance in what they felt were my strengths, helping me apply those to my career.
Sarah Jean Knox '08Current job: Owner/Auctioneer, Sarah Knox Benefit Auctions
My communication professors were truly invested in my education and cared about helping me find my passion. I use the knowledge, skills, and experience I gained in classes like Corporate Communication and Organizational Communication in my job every day.
Kelsey Jass '11Current job: Product Marketing Specialist at Deluxe Corporation