At the College of Communication & Information Sciences, we prepare you to lead and shape the world—one story, campaign, production and community at a time. From uncovering the truth to captivating audiences, building brands to strengthening public institutions—we turn your passion into purpose with the support of world-class faculty and real-world experience. 

The front of Reese Phifer Hall at The University of Alabama

C&IS: A Place for Every Communicator 

At the College of Communication & Information Sciences (C&IS), we equip and empower students to become the leaders, storytellers and innovators of tomorrow.


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Advertising

Our advertising major empowers students to blend creativity with strategy, crafting campaigns that connect audiences to ideas, products, and causes. From copywriting and art direction to media buying and account planning, students learn to deliver powerful, persuasive messages that drive results. 


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Communication Studies

Communication studies majors build the skills to lead, negotiate and connect—essentials in every profession—while examining the social and cultural forces that shape communication. 


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creative media

Whether creating short films, scripted television, documentaries, podcasts or sports content, students studying creative media master the art and craft of storytelling. While also developing the technical and managerial expertise needed for success. 


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News media

Our news media major lends timeless journalism practices with digital innovation—teaching students to report, write, edit and present stories that matter in our rapidly changing world. 


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Public relations

Public relations students become strategic communicators who manage relationships, build trust and navigate today’s digital landscape with confidence. 


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informatics 

Finally, informatics brings people and technology together, giving students the skills to design, test and improve the tools we all rely on—from mobile apps to data visualizations—while prioritizing ethical design and human-centered solutions. 


Explore C&IS and find your path to a career that makes a difference. 

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C&IS Excels 

From national rankings to prestigious awards, these highlights show what makes C&IS shine. 

DEDICATED SCHOLARSHIPS160+ These scholarships recognize achievement, fuel ambition, and make success more accessible for future communication leaders.

SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED ANNUALY$250,000 Support our students’ academic and creative pursuits.

RESEARCH GRANT FUNDING$7 Million C&IS faculty are leading active research grants totaling more than $7 million, with awards spanning every academic unit in the college.

ACTIVE RESEARCH GRANTS20+ From the NIH and NSF to NOAA and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, our researchers are nationally recognized for their innovation and impact.

NATIONAL RANKINGTop 20 Each academic unit in C&IS boasts a Top 20 national ranking.

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS28 The Alabama Forensics Council claimed 2 national championships in the 2024–2025 academic year, bringing their all-time total to 28 national titles.

INTERNSHIPS500+ C&IS students gain real-world experience through internships at top media outlets, agencies, and professional organizations.

 News & Announcements 

Discover how C&IS students, faculty, staff and alumni are using the power of communication to create positive change—on campus, in our communities, across Alabama and around the world. 

Happenings at C&IS

There’s always something exciting going on at C&IS!
Here are a few upcoming events you don’t want to miss.

Cy Wakeman, a renowned leadership expert and speaker, will present on the topic of:

"Fearless Leadership: Embracing Discomfort and Accountability to Achieve Greatness.”

This lecture is open to anyone who wants to attend.


In this session, UA students will be able to write in a supportive environment with a group of creatives who are working on like-minded work. The session will begin with a mini-lesson writing prompt aimed at inspiring the writing session. After 45 minutes, there will be a brief break to discuss what you are working on with a partner, followed by another 45 minutes of writing. This session is open to graduate students working on a thesis or dissertation as well as undergraduate students.

  • Lunch will be provided.
  • Registration is required and there are 10 seats available.
  • Deadline to register: September 24th


Public Talk: Dr. Abraham Khan “Fascism and Fandom: Four Theses on Political Attachment”

Oct 23

Time 2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Location Reese Phifer Room TBA

The Beyond Sports Initiative, the Institute for Communication and Information Research, the Office of Graduate Studies, and the College for Communication and Information Sciences PhD program are excited to announce that Dr. Abraham Khan, Assistant Professor of Communication Studies at Colorado State University, will be visiting our campus.

Join us as Dr. Abraham Khan shares his groundbreaking research at the intersection of rhetoric, sport, and politics.

All students, faculty, and staff are welcome! Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from a nationally recognized scholar whose work examines sport, activism and the cultural politics of democracy.

Creating Legacy 

Your support helps us deliver exceptional teaching, foster groundbreaking research and inspire the next generation of communication and information leaders. Every contribution—large or small—directly transforms the lives and education of our students. 

We are deeply grateful for your commitment to our mission.  

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