Communication Studies | College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

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Communication matters

Knowledge, skills, and experiences that prepare you for any path.

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Why Iowa?

Writing and communication have been at the center of the University of Iowa’s educational mission for a century.

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Undergraduate programs

Learn at a university known for writing and communication excellence that’s backed up by the expertise and training of passionate, award-winning professors.

Undergraduate programs

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Graduate programs

Do more than theorize–put knowledge into practice by exploring linguistic, social, and artistic aspects of communication in the world around us.

Graduate programs

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Faculty

Our top-level faculty help students gain the leadership skills they’ll need for any path they choose.

Faculty

See yourself here

Successful careers have one thing in common: strong communication. At Iowa, you'll learn how communication works, why it matters, what’s at stake, and most importantly, how to do it effectively.

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“The kernel of the idea definitely came during our time at the University of Iowa.”

Bryan Woods (’07 BA), co-writer, A Quiet Place

Write your story

Build knowledge. Conduct research. Create new work. Stand out among your peers. You're going places, and it all starts here.

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“I think the degree is kind of a 'Swiss army knife' of skills that are useful in the real world.”

Harley Atchison (’22 BA)

News and announcements

Professor Kate Magsamen-Conrad featured in WalletHub's recent article Loud Budgeting

Monday, April 20, 2026

Professor Kate Magsamen-Conrad shared her personal experiences and thoughts about "loud budgeting" and how it can be beneficial to individuals looking to shift the norm.

Career connector spotlight: David Supp-Montgomerie

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Pomerantz Career Center

David Supp-Montgomerie, associate professor of instruction in the Department of Communication Studies, has been recognized with a 2026 Career Impact Award for his leadership in civic dialogue and commitment to student success. Through initiatives like the Civic Dialogue program and courses focused on public communication, his work equips students with practical skills to engage in meaningful conversations and navigate complex social issues.

UI relationship expert shares insight on power of a holiday greeting card

Monday, December 1, 2025

Iowa Now

Rachel McLaren, associate professor of communication studies at the University of Iowa, explains that despite today’s era of online digital communication, the tradition of sending paper holiday greetings is a gesture toward building, maintaining, or reshaping personal relationships with friends and family.