Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UDWPE/MCWA and do I have to take it?

The UDWPE is the acronym for the Upper-Division Writing Proficiency Exam. It used to be required and was an exam to determine a student's readiness for upper-division classes. It is no longer required or offered. However, in its place is the MCWA (Mid-Career Writing Assessment). All students are required to be assessed on their writing capabilities before graduating. If you received a C or lower in Eng-102, you will be asked to take a writing workshop before you can graduate.

Do I need to have a minor?

Yes, every Comm major must choose a minor. You will need a minimum of a 2.0 GPA in your minor in order to graduate from the UA.

Can I declare my major before I take Comm 101?

Students who wish to declare Pre-Comm as their major are encouraged to have taken or be enrolled in Comm 101. However, as long as you attend the Communication Major Orientation and have an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher, you will be allowed to declare Pre-Communication as your major. Note, declaring Pre-Comm does NOT guarantee that you can become a COMM major. You will need a 2.5 GPA between Comm 101 and 228, and at least a C in both classes, to become a COMM major. You should not take additional hours of COMM courses without having that 2.5 GPA, because you will NOT be allowed into the major. Note that both 101 and 228 are restricted to a maximum of two attempts. If you try both courses twice and don't make the 2.5 GPA, you must look for another major.

How do I check out how many credits I have and what requirements I still have to fulfill?

Go to the Student Link and view your SAPR (Student Academic Progress Report). After reading your SAPR you should meet with an advisor to make sure you are on track. Be sure to print your SAPR with your NAME and ID printed on it. Fliers that explain the steps for printing SAPRs with NAME and ID are in the department.<

How many total Comm units are needed to graduate with a degree?

33 units, 18 of which must be taken in the Communication department at the University of Arizona.

How many upper division Comm units do I need?

15 units is the minimum.

What is the math requirement for Comm majors?

Math 109 (college algebra with data analysis) OR Math 110 (college algebra) or higher, with a C or better.

What core classes do I need to take?

Comm 101 & 228, a minimum of a C grade in both with a combined average of 2.5 or better. This means one must be a B grade. Comm 300 must be passed in order to take upper division classes and is considered a core course.

What does it mean to be a Pre-Comm Major?

It means that you should be in the process of, or already have taken, Comm 101, 228, and Math 109/110, and received a 2.5 GPA or better between 101 and 228. Once this has been accomplished, your major changes from Pre-Comm to Communication.

What do I do if I can't get Comm classes?

Work on minor, second major, or take upper division elective courses.

What happens if I am able to get upper division Comm classes without having completed the core classes?

You will be administratively dropped from the class because you have not completed your prerequisites.

Does the Comm department allow students to receive credit for internships?

Yes. Look at the information boards on floor 2. You must get important paperwork from Kenci Lewis or the graduate assistant. Be aware that only 3 in-house units (393, 399, 493, 496, 499) may apply to your major withoout pre-approval from the department.

When and where do I go for degree checks?

See Jenny Bravo in Music115. May graduates begin in October after registration; December and summer graduates begin in April after registration. After seeing Jenny Bravo, see Diana Leonard to be signed off.

What if I want to double major?

First see an advisor and then choose one major to be your primary and the other will be your secondary (some classes may overlap).

How can I get more involved?

There are many clubs and organizations such as the Arizona Communication Association, Lambda Pi Eta, and the Communication Club (see 'Communication organizations you can join', page 15 on the downloadable PDF file, for more information).