St. Theresa’s College (STC) – Bachelor of Arts in Communication

St. Theresa’s College (STC) in Cebu City is one of the Philippines’ most respected Catholic institutions, known for its academic excellence, strong moral foundation, and commitment to women’s empowerment. Among its standout degree programs is the Bachelor of Arts in Communication, a comprehensive course that equips students with the knowledge, creativity, and technical skills to thrive in today’s fast-changing media and communication industries.

This article explores the details of the BA Communication program at STC, including its curriculum, objectives, admission requirements, facilities, internship opportunities, and the career paths available to its graduates.

Overview of St. Theresa’s College (STC)

Founded in 1933 by the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, St. Theresa’s College of Cebu (STC) has a long-standing reputation for academic quality and holistic education. It is a private Catholic institution located along Gen. Maxilom Avenue, Cebu City, offering programs from basic education to college.

The college emphasizes the development of students who are not only intellectually competent but also socially responsible, spiritually grounded, and globally aware. STC has been known for producing graduates who excel in education, communication, business, and the arts.

The College Department at STC offers a variety of programs under different disciplines, and the BA in Communication stands out as one of its most dynamic and relevant degrees for the modern era.

About the Bachelor of Arts in Communication Program

The BA Communication program at STC is designed to cultivate effective communicators, critical thinkers, and ethical media practitioners. It provides students with a solid foundation in media theory, journalism, public relations, advertising, and digital communication.

The program emphasizes both academic learning and practical experience, ensuring that students are prepared for the demands of the global communication industry. STC integrates classroom instruction with real-world applications, internships, and media productions that help students gain professional competence.

Program Duration

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication is a four-year program (eight semesters) that follows the standard academic calendar.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum blends liberal arts education with specialized communication training. It develops analytical, creative, and technical abilities essential for careers in traditional and digital media.

Core Courses

Some of the key subjects include:

• Introduction to Communication and Media Studies

• Communication Theory

• Journalism Principles and Practices

• Public Relations and Corporate Communication

• Advertising Concepts and Campaigns

• Broadcasting and Media Production

• Digital Media and Online Journalism

• Research Methods in Communication

• Communication Ethics and Law

• Communication for Development (C4D)

• Strategic Communication and Media Planning

General Education Courses

Students also take general education courses that strengthen their language proficiency, critical thinking, and understanding of culture and society.

Practical and Laboratory Courses

The program integrates hands-on training through:

• Broadcast laboratory work

• Student publication and media production projects

• Scriptwriting and storytelling workshops

• Multimedia editing and presentation skills

Learning Objectives

The BA in Communication program aims to develop:

1. Effective communicators who can craft messages for various audiences and media platforms.

2. Critical thinkers capable of analyzing media content, social issues, and communication strategies.

3. Ethical professionals who uphold truth, fairness, and social responsibility.

4. Innovative media practitioners who use digital tools creatively and responsibly.

5. Leaders and change agents who contribute to nation-building and community development through communication.

Teaching Approach and Philosophy

STC integrates theory and practice with a strong values-based education rooted in Christian ethics. The school believes in forming students who are not only skilled but also socially conscious communicators.

The faculty members are a mix of academic scholars and experienced media professionals, ensuring that students benefit from both intellectual insight and industry relevance.

Classes are interactive, combining lectures, group projects, research activities, and creative productions. STC also emphasizes service learning, encouraging students to use communication as a tool for advocacy and social impact.

Facilities and Learning Resources

St. Theresa’s College is equipped with modern facilities that support communication and media learning, including:

• Multimedia laboratories for video editing, sound mixing, and digital design

• Broadcast and recording studios for practical media exercises

• Library and digital resources with updated books, journals, and online access to communication databases

• Student publication office for journalism and editorial training

• Lecture halls and classrooms with audio-visual equipment

These facilities provide students with hands-on opportunities to apply their classroom learning in simulated real-world settings.

Internship and Fieldwork Opportunities

One of the strengths of STC’s BA Communication program is its internship component, which allows students to gain professional experience before graduation.

Students are placed in reputable organizations such as:

• Local and national TV and radio networks

• Advertising and public relations agencies

• Government communication offices

• Corporate communications departments

• Non-profit and advocacy organizations

• Online media companies

Through internships, students develop real-world skills, build professional networks, and gain exposure to the communication industry’s operations.

Student Activities and Organizations

STC encourages active student participation in extracurricular and co-curricular activities. BA Communication students can join organizations like:

• The Theresian Communicators’ Society – a student group focused on media and communication projects

• Campus publications and creative media teams – platforms for writing, production, and journalism practice

• Speech and debate clubs – enhancing communication and critical thinking skills

• Community outreach programs – applying communication skills to serve marginalized sectors

These activities help students build confidence, teamwork, and leadership abilities.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the BA Communication program must meet the following general requirements:

1. High school graduate or senior high school completer (preferably under the Humanities and Social Sciences strand, but all strands are accepted).

2. Accomplished application form (available at the STC Admissions Office or website).

3. Copy of high school report card (Form 138).

4. Certificate of Good Moral Character.

5. Recent passport-sized photos.

6. Entrance examination and interview (as required by the college).

Transfer students and foreign applicants are also welcome, subject to additional requirements and evaluation.

Career Opportunities for Graduates

Graduates of the BA Communication program from STC are well-prepared for diverse career paths in media, corporate, and creative industries. Possible career options include:

Media and Journalism

• News Reporter / Journalist

• Broadcast Producer

• News Anchor

• Scriptwriter

• Online Content Editor

Corporate and Public Relations

• Public Relations Officer

• Corporate Communications Specialist

• Marketing and Advertising Executive

• Event Coordinator

• Brand Strategist

Digital Media and Creative Industries

• Social Media Manager

• Digital Marketing Specialist

• Multimedia Producer

• Copywriter

• Videographer / Photographer

Others

• Communication Researcher

• Educator or Academic Lecturer

• Development Communication Specialist

STC alumni are known for their competence, ethical grounding, and leadership—qualities that make them highly employable in local and international workplaces.

Why Choose STC for Communication Studies

1. Reputation for Excellence – STC is one of Cebu’s most trusted colleges, with decades of proven academic quality.

2. Values-Centered Education – Students are taught to practice communication with integrity and social awareness.

3. Hands-on Learning – The program integrates practical media experience through labs and internships.

4. Industry Connections – Partnerships with media and corporate organizations enhance job placement opportunities.

5. Empowering Environment – STC fosters confidence and leadership, especially among young women aspiring for communication careers.

Alumni Success Stories

Many STC graduates have gone on to successful careers in media, education, and business. Alumni often credit their college experience for instilling discipline, creativity, and compassion—values that distinguish them in the professional world.

Some have become journalists, public relations managers, corporate executives, and educators in the Philippines and abroad. The strong alumni network provides mentorship and support for current students.

Conclusion

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication at St. Theresa’s College (STC) is more than just a degree—it’s a transformative learning experience that molds students into responsible, confident, and competent communicators.

Through its balance of theory, practice, and values formation, the program empowers graduates to make a positive impact in the media industry and society at large. Whether one’s goal is to become a journalist, PR professional, or digital media specialist, STC provides the solid foundation and holistic education needed to succeed.

FAQs

What is the BA in Communication at St. Theresa’s College (STC)?

The BA in Communication at STC is a four-year program that blends theory and practice across journalism, broadcast, public relations, advertising, and digital media. It emphasizes ethical, audience-centered communication and practical production work alongside research, strategy, and leadership training.

Who is the program best suited for?

It’s ideal for students who enjoy writing, storytelling, multimedia production, public speaking, and strategic messaging. Applicants who value values-based education, civic engagement, and creativity will find STC’s approach especially aligned with their goals.

What learning outcomes can I expect?

Graduates are expected to demonstrate: (1) clear and ethical communication across platforms; (2) critical analysis of media and audiences; (3) applied skills in content creation, editing, and analytics; (4) strategic planning for PR and marketing; and (5) collaboration, leadership, and community-oriented practice.

What core subjects are typically included?

Representative courses include Communication and Media Theories, News Writing and Reporting, PR and Corporate Communication, Advertising and Campaigns, Broadcast Production, Digital and Social Media, Scriptwriting, Communication Research, Ethics and Law, and Communication for Development.

How is practical experience integrated?

Practice is embedded via newsroom and studio exercises, content labs, campaign projects for partner organizations, and portfolio-based assessments. Many subjects culminate in deliverables such as feature stories, audio-video packages, integrated PR/advertising plans, and digital analytics reports.

What facilities support learning?

Students typically access multimedia labs for editing and design, basic broadcast and audio recording setups, and a library with print and digital resources. Facilities may evolve; applicants should verify current equipment and software availability directly with STC before enrollment.

Is there an internship or on-the-job training?

Yes. The program generally includes supervised internships in media outlets, PR and advertising agencies, corporate communications offices, NGOs, or government information units. Internship policies (hours, prerequisites, partner organizations) are determined by STC and may change each academic year.

What careers do graduates pursue?

Common roles include journalist, segment or field producer, copywriter, PR associate, corporate communications officer, social media manager, content strategist, multimedia editor, brand associate, and communications researcher. Some graduates proceed to teaching, graduate studies, or development communication work.

Does the program teach digital and social media skills?

Yes. Coursework typically covers digital storytelling, basic web publishing, social content planning, platform-native formats, entry-level analytics, and online community management. Emphasis is placed on ethical use of digital tools and compliance with platform and legal guidelines.

Are there opportunities for leadership and advocacy?

Students can participate in campus publications, communications societies, debate and public speaking clubs, and service-learning projects. Many capstone or campaign courses include social impact components, encouraging responsible messaging and community partnerships.

What are the admission requirements?

In general, applicants submit a completed application, high school records, a good moral character certification, ID photos, and may be asked to take an entrance exam and/or interview. Transfer and international applicants often have additional documentation. For the latest list, consult STC admissions.

Is there a preferred Senior High School strand?

Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) is often recommended, but other strands can be admitted subject to bridging requirements determined by STC. Foundational strengths in English, research, and media literacy are beneficial regardless of strand.

How are students assessed?

Assessment typically combines exams, writing and production outputs, presentations, campaign plans, peer critiques, reflections, and internship evaluations. Portfolio curation is encouraged so graduates can showcase work to employers.

What is the medium of instruction?

English is commonly used as the primary medium of instruction in Communication courses, with allowances for multilingual content when appropriate to audience or project goals. Specific course policies may vary by instructor.

Does the program include research?

Yes. Students learn qualitative and quantitative methods, ethics in research, and how to translate findings into strategy, content, and evaluation. Many programs culminate in a thesis, special project, or applied research output.

Can I specialize (e.g., PR, journalism, multimedia)?

Electives and project choices often allow informal concentration in areas like journalism, PR/advertising, or multimedia content. The availability of electives is subject to scheduling, faculty expertise, and cohort demand.

How much is the tuition and what financial aid exists?

Tuition and fees change over time. STC may offer scholarships or discounts subject to eligibility and funding availability. Applicants should contact the Admissions or Finance Office for current rates, payment plans, and aid options.

How does STC integrate ethics and values?

As a Catholic institution, STC emphasizes truth, fairness, dignity, and social responsibility. Ethics is taught explicitly through coursework and implicitly through project guidelines, service-learning, and codes of conduct for student media work.

What soft skills are prioritized?

The curriculum fosters critical thinking, teamwork, time management, client communication, presentation delivery, and constructive feedback. These competencies complement technical skills and are reinforced through collaborative labs and fieldwork.

Is international or exchange experience possible?

Opportunities depend on institutional agreements and policies for a given year. Interested students should inquire early about credit transfer, timelines, costs, and documentation for travel or remote collaboration projects.

How do students build a professional portfolio?

Through course outputs, newsroom and studio work, internship projects, client briefs, and capstones. Students are advised to curate pieces that display range (writing, video, PR plans, analytics) and depth (research-informed, audience-focused work).

What support exists for career placement?

Career support may include internship matching, portfolio reviews, employer talks, and referrals. Alumni networks and faculty mentors can help with informational interviews and job search strategies. Availability varies by term.

How can I verify current information?

Policies, fees, partner organizations, and course offerings may change. For authoritative and updated information on admissions, curriculum, schedules, and aid, contact STC directly through its official channels or visit the campus Admissions Office.

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