The "AGE of COMMUNICATION" is growing rapidly! New media , computer technology, the information super-highway, and digital technology, combined with the proven media of radio, video, and the performing arts are giving today's communicators powerful tools to Communicate Christ Creatively.
The purpose of the Communication Program is to assist students in the development of skills that will enable them to utilize appropriately and creatively, the latest technology for the communication of the Gospel. Students majoring in the Communication Program build a foundation for careers in radio broadcasting, computer technology, video production, missions, church related ministries, deaf ministries and the performing arts.
The Communication Program is located in the Media Resource Center in the Ridderhof Memorial Building. The Media Resource Center features two computer labs, video studios, digital editing suites, production control rooms, photographic darkrooms, classrooms, and offices for student publications. The Media resource Center connects to the G. Allen Fleece Library providing students with a prolific resource complex.
As part of their education, students in the Communication (Com) Program gain valuable experience working on the student yearbook,The Finial, and at either of the College's two radio stations. WCIU is a student operated, campus radio station meeting the needs of the 600 resident students with music and campus news. WMHK is a Christian non-commercial 100,000 watt FM station which broadcasts to Columbia, SC area. WMHK received the prestigious "Station of the Year" award in 1993 from the Nation Religious Broadcasters and has twice been the recipient of the Marconi Award, given by the National Association of Broadcasters, as the one of the 10 best radio stations in America.
Additional objectives of the Communication Program include:
- Provide a Biblical basis for identifying and evaluating principles of the communication arts and media from historical and contemporary practice
- Survey the historical traditions of communication, emphasizing the role of the Church and religion
- Introduce the student to the scope of the communication field and its relevance to particular callings in various ministries and in missions.
- Survey international and intercultural forms of communication, developing appropriate skills for the use of selected media forms
- Provide basic training in media production and programming
- Supply a foundation for advanced study in Communication
