Parkersburg, W.Va. (April 30, 2021) – West Virginia University at Parkersburg has been recognized as one of the top-ranked institutions in the U.S. for its Digital Communication program. The college ranked No. 23 in the nation for its Bachelor of Applied Science in Communication and Media Studies pathway.

Programs across the nation were evaluated by BachelorsDegreeCenter.org, a publication dedicated to helping students find the best educational program most suited to their financial, academic and personal needs.

“I’m extremely proud that the efforts of our talented faculty and staff that make this program effective and desirable were acknowledged,” said Dave Thompson, Humanities, Fine Arts and Social Sciences division chairperson. “I’m equally pleased that students felt they received the quality education necessary for their career successes.”

The Communication and Media Studies degree with a concentration in Digital Communication ranked for its affordability, acceptance rate and student support. Of students surveyed, 88% say instructors excelled at tailoring classes to fit student interests. Also, 76% of students said the institution offered flexibility in scheduling classes.

WVU Parkersburg offers hands-on learning for those interested in pursuing a degree in Digital Communication. With the WPKM radio station, digital media production lab and internships with large content creators like Disney, students gain real experience to build resumes and portfolios.

Students create original programming and shows for the radio station, become campus journalists for the school’s online publication, The Chronicle, and practice video and audio editing in a new professional recording studio.

“The CMS program at WVU Parkersburg prides itself in creating courses that produce workforce-ready students with the creative skills to become leaders in their industry,” said Olivia Reeder, WVU Parkersburg director of Experiential Learning and Public Affairs. “By offering experiential learning opportunities on campus and throughout the community, we are preparing our students and giving them the experience needed to land a job in this competitive market.

If a student is a W.Va. resident, they may be eligible for WV Invests while pursuing an associate degree in Digital Communication. WV Invests will cover remaining tuition after all other federal and state grant awards are used.

“We are very fortunate to have such great students in this program,” said Jeremy Harrison, WVU Parkersburg Digital Communication instructor. “We, as instructors, must strive to give them the best learning experience possible so they can thrive in an ever-changing industry.”

To view the complete rankings, visit bachelorsdegreecenter.org/best-digital-communications-degrees/.

For more information about WVU Parkersburg’s Communication and Media Studies programs, visit wvup.edu/hfass, or contact Jeremy Harrison at jeremy.harrison@wvup.edu or Logan Mace at logan.mace@wvup.edu.