Abstract
This article examines the rationale for creating a College of Communication and Fine Arts, using the case of Memphis State University as an example. It argues that combining communication and fine arts disciplines into one administrative unit provides advantages in administration, creativity, and efficiency. A separate college allowed norms for faculty loads, facilities, and nontraditional scholarly activities to be judged fairly, rather than against inappropriate benchmarks from larger arts and sciences colleges. The structure also fostered cooperation among previously competitive departments, leading to joint projects in theatre, journalism, music, and visual arts. Examples include collaborative media productions, shared photography facilities, and interdisciplinary coursework. By encouraging a sense of unity, the model reduced duplication, improved resource use, and enhanced creative output. The article concludes that despite being considered unusual, such a college structure offered clear benefits and represented a practical approach to academic organization.
Recommended Citation
Ranta, Richard R.
(1987)
"Why a College of Communication and Fine Arts?,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 61, Article 11.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol61/iss1/11
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