FAQs

What does Capilano's Communications Division teach?

Capilano University’s Communications Division offers programs and courses in applied and scholarly communication. Applied communication (normally “communications”) involves practical skills in writing, editing, and public speaking. Scholarly communication (normally “communication studies” or “communication and culture”) involves the analysis of communication technologies, media, institutions and processes in relation to pertinent social, political and economic issues. In fusing both approaches, Capilano’s Communications Division focuses on “professional communication” – that is, the study of communication as a strategic practice.

What programs are available through the Communications Division?

Some of our courses are part of the curriculum of various career programs like Business Administration or Outdoor Recreation. However, we also have four programs tailored specifically to students with both academic and career interests in communication.

The Professional Communications Certificate (15 credits) trains generalists in writing, editing and speaking with the aim of helping students develop their careers in communication fields or in jobs requiring communication skills.

The Advanced Certificate in Professional Communications (30 credits) combines applied skills and academic study, supplying students not only with the practical competencies required to do communications work, but also with strategic, analytic, and critical thinking skills necessary to advance beyond entry level positions in communications.

The Communication Studies Diploma program (60 credits) is a two year transfer program into the Bachelor of Communication at Simon Fraser University’s School of Communication. This program is designed for students interested in a broad exploration of issues, ideas and practices in communication and whose career paths necessitate the development of critical, analytic and creative skills.

The Magazine Publishing Program (30 credits) is a summer program tailored to students interested in magazine publishing. The program leads students through all phases of the publishing process from writing and editing to design and layout and includes a six credit directed internship.

Please see individual program pages for full descriptions, admissions requirements and program profiles.

Do CMNS courses transfer to other schools?

All courses included in the Communication Studies Diploma program transfer to SFU and count for credit towards their Bachelors degree. Many of our others courses transfer to institutions across the region. Before registering, students are advised to check the  BC Transfer Guide to ensure the transferability of the credits.