Student Experience
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Many Communication Studies majors find ways to pursue their interests more deeply through involvement in undergraduate research.
Students who choose to conduct research as undergraduates gain solid preparation for future graduate studies and the workplace, while also forging strong connections with members of the faculty.
In addition to their individual research projects, many faculty in the Communication Studies department maintain active research labs where they explore issues at the forefront of the field. Students in the department have involved themselves in these labs through work-study positions, through Research Practica (through which they may earn academic credit) and as Research Assistants.
Student Activities
Communication Studies participate in a variety of student organizations and events, including those listed below.
Debate Society
Members of Northwestern's Debate Society, which dates back to 1855, have active schedules in the school year, often traveling to seven or ten intercollegiate tournaments a year, trips that are paid for by Northwestern. There also are opportunities to debate on campus.
Dean’s Advisory Council
Communication Studies majors represent the department on the Dean’s Advisory Council (DAC). The DAC consists of four undergraduate students from each department, representing the freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior classes. The DAC meets once each quarter and holds additional meetings as they are needed.