Organizational Communication: Employee Communication
The employee communication emphasis equips students interested in both interpersonal and organizational communication for work that actively utilizes both skill sets.
Why should I study employee communication?
At its core, the success of an organization depends on the talent, creativity, and drive of the people who work there. The emphasis in employee communication teaches students how to approach organizational communication from this people-centric perspective.
You'll explore organizational structures, work processes, cultures, and effective communication practices while cultivating the skills to navigate social complexities within an organizational context.
What can I do with this degree?
The B.A. in Organizational Communication prepares students to pursue further graduate study and opens doors to a myriad of career opportunities at companies like:- Target
- The Minnesota Twins
- 3M
- Amazon
and nonprofit organizations including:
- Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge
- Ronald McDonald House
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Specifically, the emphasis in employee communication is conducive for students interested in entering people-intensive fields such as:
- Human resources
- Employee communication
- Corporate recruiting
- Project management
- Career consulting
- Public relations
- Fundraising and development
- Marketing communication
- Management
- Sales
- Event management
- Social media management
A minor in leadership studies pairs nicely with this degree.
What skills will I develop?
- Effective communication in organizational setting
- Interpersonal communication
- Leadership
- Collaboration
- Strategic thinking
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?
Benefit from a personalized education
Students from all emphases within the organizational communication major are required to complete core communication studies courses as well as a variety of courses that they will need to succeed in an organizational setting. The courses you take are tailored to your emphasis and other areas of interest. Employee communication courses offered include, but are not limited to Intercultural Communication; Topics in Relational Communication; and Staffing, Training, and Development.
Experience hands-on learning
All students majoring in communication studies complete an internship in communication tailored to your specific area of interest—providing real-world, applicable experience.
Learn from experienced professors
Our professors have been recognized for their excellence as instructors and scholars and will partner with you as mentors and advisees as you prepare for your future career. Betsy Anderson, Ph.D., APR, has a professional background in public relations and is an active member of the Minnesota Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).
158
students majoring in the department
150
students presented at regional conferences in the past 7 years
Recent News
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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 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
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
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