TCC to offer associate-level professional communications specialization in fall semester

The 61-credit Associate of Science in General Studies — Professional Communications Specialization will prepare students to transfer to four-year colleges and universities to pursue a bachelor’s in communication.

It was also designed with military students in mind.

Course work will include professional writing, public relations, corporate communications and organization. Students will receive on-the-job training as part of a required internship in the field.

TCC’s program is the only associate-level professional communications specialization offered by a public college in Hampton Roads. Graduates may transfer into Old Dominion University’s bachelor’s in communication.

The Princeton Review recently ranked communications No. 2 on its list of the top 10 college majors.

“Our students will gain the foundational knowledge and skills to communicate effectively in an ever-changing world,” said Diane Ryan, dean of humanities and social sciences on TCC’s Chesapeake Campus. “Professional communication is a precursor to leadership, which will benefit students in any career field.”

In addition to providing entry-level training for those wishing to go into public relations or technical writing, the program will allow Navy ombudsmen the opportunity to earn an academic credential.

TCC designed its curriculum after conferring with the Commander of the Navy Installations Command (CNIC) Ombudsman Program. Military ombudsmen interested in this path will work with TCC’s Center for Military and Veterans Education to coordinate their internships.

Classes will be offered on TCC’s Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach campuses. Many classes will be available online.

The fall semester begins Aug. 22.