The Bachelor of Science in Development Communication (BS Dev Com) is a four-year degree program that provides students a strong foundation of the theories and principles of communication and its significant role in development. The program has a broad range of subjects in natural and social sciences, agriculture, health, and the environment. It also focuses on the context behind verbal and non-verbal messages on different media platforms. With all of these relevant subject matter, the program aims to make students knowledgeable on skills needed in implementing communication programs for development. Graduates of this program are expected to analyze social issues through applying social sciences concepts and theories while making sure professional and ethical standards are followed.

Recommended Senior High School Strand

Students who want to pursue a degree in Developmental Communication are encouraged to take the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand under the Academic track. The curriculum focuses on human behavior, literature, education, politics, liberal arts, and society. The HUMSS strand will cover relevant topics that may be further discussed in their college lectures. 

Subjects and Curriculum

• Introduction to Development Communication
• Communication Theory
• Communication Research
• Communication, Culture, and Society
• Communication Media Laws and Ethics 
• Communication Programs and Campaigns

Admission Requirements

Qualifications

• The student must be a high school graduate. 

However, if they were not able to graduate high school, they may opt to take the Alternative Learning System (ALS) and pass the Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT) to qualify for college; the availability of courses for PEPT passers depend on the university.

• The students must pass the College Admissions Test of the university.

Basic Requirements

• Form 138 - High School Report Card (Original and Photocopy)
• Recommendation letter from High school principal and guidance counselor
• Most recent medical and dental health record
• Copy of NSO Certified birth certificate
• Certificate of Good moral character
• Copy of honorable dismissal
• Copy of high school diploma
• (1) Latest 2”x2” ID Picture

Program Outcome

Graduates of Developmental Communication are expected to be able to:

• Have a critical understanding of development perspectives
• Properly use of communication information and knowledge
• Apply communication theories, principles, and models in development work
• Conduct communication research and methods
• Adhere to ethical standards and practices

On-The-Job Training/Internship

During the fourth year of the program, students are required to attend an On the Job Training (OJT) in commercial and public media-related companies, or organizations with departments that needs specialized mass communication concepts and principles. Students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in an actual work setting. Usually, universities require them to submit a written report on their tasks, learning experiences, and hours rendered. Their work performance will also be evaluated by their immediate managers and will be submitted to their respective OJT coordinator. The number of hours required may differ in each university.

Board Exam

The BS in Developmental Communication does not have a board examination. However, graduates may opt to take the Civil Service Examination (CSE) conducted by the Philippine Civil Service Commission (PCSC) to qualify in working in government offices. Some graduates opt to take a Master’s degree followed by a Doctorate degree to gain expertise in the industry. 

Career Opportunities

Graduates of BS in Developmental Communication may pursue a career path in commercial and public media-related companies or organizations with departments that needs specialized mass communication concepts and principles. They may apply as a public relations officer, project development officer, communication analyst, media planner, or academician.