Communication Studies: Relational Studies
The relational communication emphasis involves the study of interpersonal, family, and other forms of communication including dyadic and group relationships—and the development of skills that fulfill requirements for a wide variety of careers and personal aspirations.
Why should I study relational communication?
This emphasis covers interpersonal, small group, intercultural, and international communication by helping students develop the ability to persuade, initiate, and maintain relationships, communicate nonverbally, listen, build empathy and trust, and manage conflict. All of these are critical to effective leadership, training, and service.
The flexible curriculum for the relational communication emphasis is designed for students who are very sure they “like working with people”—and are open to how they do that. Graduates leave equipped to embark into numerous areas of employment as well as graduate work.
What can I do with this degree?
The relational studies emphasis prepares students for numerous career opportunities involving working with people in organizations and nonprofits, ministry, and the services. Possible career fields include:
- Ministry
- Sales
- College admissions counseling
- Employee relations
- Community education
- Career counseling
- Conflict mediation
- Hospital-patient relations
- Social and human services
This degree is an exceptional preprofessional path for students interested in graduate school. Many students have obtained fully-funded graduate assistantships and have gone on to programs in:
- Communication
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Seminary
- Marriage and family therapy
This degree pairs well with minors in gender studies and leadership studies.
What skills will I develop?
- Research methods
- Interpersonal communication
- Public speaking
- Intercultural communication
- Conflict resolution
- Group communication
- Communication analysis
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
Engage in hands-on learning
All students majoring in communication studies with a relational studies emphasis complete an internship in communication. Your internship will be tailored to your specific area of interest—providing real-world, applicable experience in the field.
Learn from experienced professors
Our professors are accomplished scholars and have been recognized for their excellence both at Bethel—receiving awards for teaching and service—and externally. Recently, Professor Peggy Kendall received an award for top paper at the Central States Communication Association, and Professor Ripley Smith was awarded an Edgren Scholarship to conduct research among those experiencing homelessness.
158
students majoring in the department
150
students presented at regional conferences in the past 7 years
Recent News
Jesse Phenow ’14 Receives 4 Under 40 Achievement Award
August 30, 2023 | 12:15 p.m.
BJ Skoog ’12 is a “Relational Router” in His Home Community of Richfield
June 30, 2023 | Noon
Bethel Students Nominated for Upper Midwest Emmy Student Production Awards
June 28, 2023 | 2 p.m.
The Jay and Barb Barnes Global Study Scholarship Reflects Their Commitment to International Experiences
June 15, 2023 | 2:30 p.m.
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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 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
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
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.
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