Mass Communications Degree Change

Many mass communications majors on campus are having mixed feelings with the new changes that have been made to the mass communications degree.

One week into the fall 2012 semester it was announced that the four-year degree program would be changed from a bachelor of arts to a bachelor of science. The new changes include students being required to only take two foreign language classes as opposed to the four classes that were previously required.

These degree changes are going into effect immediately, therefore those graduating in the fall will graduate with a B.S. in mass communications. Mass communications senior Adam Lovell is unhappy with the fact that he wasted money.

“I don’t think it is fair that I paid for all four of my Spanish classes and now I’m going to be graduating with same degree as people who only had to take two foreign language classes,” Lovell said.

The Board of Regents did not notify the mass communications department of the degree change approval until Friday, Aug. 24, which was two days before drop/add was over, causing many students to lose money and receive a “W” (withdrawal) for the class. Some students were fortunate and checked their emails on that Friday and were able to drop their foreign language class.

Seniors should be given a choice as to whether or not they want to continue on the B.A. track or change to the B.S. in mass communications, since most seniors have already completed the B.A. foreign language requirements. The financial aid department should also find a way to reimburse students who dropped their foreign language class after realizing it was not required for the B.S. degree. However, some seniors do not mind losing their money; Dana Towns was relieved that she could drop her 2002 French class.

“I honestly don’t care if I get my money back or not, I just don’t feel like being stressed about French during my last semester as an undergraduate,” said Towns.

There is no doubt that this situation seems a bit unfair, but it is all up to the individual’s attitude and the way each person chooses to handle the situation. Look for the positive and possible benefits the extra foreign language classes offered. As far as refunds are concerned, exercise the individual’s right to the First Amendment and go talk to someone on campus with authority.

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