What is Communication?
Explore the Science of Human Connection
Communication is the process of exchanging information, ideas, thoughts and emotions—whether through spoken words, written texts, facial expressions or digital media. It's the foundation of how we connect, influence and make sense of the world around us.
The Department of Communication explores the science behind how people connect—studying the dynamics of human interaction, the impact of messages on attitudes and behavior, and how technology continually reshapes the ways we share, receive and interpret information.
At UB, you’ll explore the scientific study of communication phenomena across a wide spectrum of real-world contexts. Major research and course areas include:
- Social Influence and Networks: How ideas, behaviors and decisions spread through relationships.
- Health Communication: How communication affects health behaviors and outcomes.
- Science and Risk Communication: Making complex scientific issues understandable and actionable.
- New Media and Technology: Studying the impact of digital platforms and AI on human interaction.
- Interpersonal and Organizational Communication: Exploring how we build, manage and sustain relationships at home and at work.
- Entertainment and Media Studies: Analyzing how storytelling shapes beliefs, culture and learning.
- Political Communication: Investigating media, persuasion and the influence of messaging in politics.
UB’s Department of Communication is known for its rigorous quantitative research.
Our tools and methods include:
- Multivariate Statistics
- Mathematical Modeling
- Computer Simulation
- Experimental Design
- Survey Research
- Social Network Analysis
We distinguish ourselves from programs that focus solely on performance, rhetoric or public speaking—our emphasis is on communication as a science.
Whether you're interested in social media, health campaigns, political strategy or emerging tech, a communication degree from UB gives you the tools to make a meaningful impact.