Theory versus application: finding the right combination in academic programs

Finding the best combination of theoretical versus applied topics in communication programs is difficult. Knowing how that mix may differ for undergraduate and graduate students is also a challenge. Communicators in primarily high-tech industries were surveyed to elicit their input on which courses or areas of knowledge were the most important or useful to their job performance. Additional survey data came from a group of Florida Tech communication alumni. Their responses reveal that a combination of theoretical and applied work is necessary to provide adequate background knowledge and practical skills for successful performance in the workplace.