Abstract
This article examines efforts to bridge speech communication and journalism/mass communication within a single academic department at the University of West Florida. The discussion reviews historical challenges in defining communication as a discipline, noting tensions between faculty trained in speech, journalism, broadcasting, and film. Early attempts at a “cafeteria curriculum” gave way to a track system that recognized both the distinctiveness and the complementarity of areas. A central theme is the shared focus on messages—their form, structure, audiences, and impact—which provides a common framework for integration. Benefits of combining speech and mass communication included a stronger emphasis on liberal arts, enhanced scholarly productivity, and greater career connections for students. Support from professional organizations and accreditation bodies further reinforced the department’s growth. The article concludes that seeking common roots across fields strengthens communication as an academic discipline and enhances its credibility.
Recommended Citation
Roberts, Churchill L.
(1987)
"Building Bridges Between Speech and Journalism/Mass Communication,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 62, Article 20.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol62/iss1/20
