A CMD student working as an intern for the Smithsonian Institution.
In today’s global economy, an organization's ability to communicate effectively with internal and external audiences is critical. As a CMD major, you'll explore interpersonal and media-based communication in areas such as meeting and event planning, workplace collaboration, government relations, fund-raising, training and workforce development, and promotional campaigns.
Our core curriculum will teach you essential print and web design, production, project management, and presentation skills. Beyond that, you may choose one of three concentrations: corporate communication, instructional technology, or integrated studies. The broad foundation you receive will prepare you to evaluate and lead communications initiatives focused on globalization, performance improvement consulting, the virtual workplace, e-learning, simulations, gaming, and more.
You’ll also have plenty of opportunity to apply what you’re learning to real-world situations. Class projects and internships will put you in the role of consultant to businesses and nonprofit organizations, where you might conduct communication audits, produce instructional videos, devise a crisis communication plan, or develop a newsletter. Special programs in London, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles offer not only practical work experience -- and, in the case of the London program, international perspective -- but also valuable contacts that will serve you well after graduation.
Whatever path you follow, our program will prepare you for a communications career in almost any type of organization: Ithaca alumni work in event and fund-raising management, and in museums, customer relations, training, educational institutions, and health agencies, as well as public relations agencies. Organizations that hire our graduates -- such as Wells Fargo Bank, Ogilvy & Mather, Sesame Street, and Accenture -- report that they’re well equipped to perform multiple communications functions. That’s because at Ithaca you’ll not only learn to use the technology of the moment; you’ll also acquire essential skills and understanding that will last your whole career.