Central College has merged its communication studies program with the accounting, business management and economics programs to form the Business and Communication Studies Department, an alignment designed to better prepare students for the demands of today’s workforce.
The restructuring reflects the formalization of the longstanding partnership that will strengthen curriculum planning and expand student opportunities for networking, internships and career development.
“Our programs have always worked closely together, and this merger gives formal recognition to that relationship,” says Maggie Schlerman, professor of accounting and 2002 Central alumna. “By emphasizing communication skills within business management and our other majors, we can capitalize on this partnership and make those connections even stronger. Central has long invested in well-respected academic programs, and employers in the region know our graduates are well-prepared — this is another step in that process.”
Faculty say the merger will strengthen courses already offered in professional writing and public speaking and allow both departments to deploy shared resources more strategically. Long-term curriculum planning, previously conducted separately, will now take place jointly. Faculty explain the new structure positions both programs to collectively pursue additional resources, including updated classroom technology, expanded software access and modernize facilities that reflect tools students will encounter in professional settings.
“Collaboration across our disciplines makes good sense for our students and our programs,” says Shelley Bradfield, professor of communication studies. “Together, we can more effectively shape a curriculum that builds networking skills, critical thinking and strong writing — the skills students need for their careers. What’s exciting is that we advocated for this merger because we can see the synergies and the benefits to our faculty, students and alumni.”
The merger is also expected to broaden alumni engagement. Both programs have maintained separate alumni networking events. Administrators are exploring whether combining those efforts could create a larger, more connected alumni pool with shared career trajectories.
Both programs are based in the Weller Center for Business and International Studies building. Degree requirements for all programs will be the same as before the merger.
