by Erik Madrid
Students at Oklahoma Baptist University will soon have access to a revamped and expanded communications program designed to better prepare them for the evolving media and professional landscape.
The new program, created through collaboration between Sarkeys Communications and the Division of Journalism and Mass Communication (JMAS) faculty, was recently sent to the university’s curriculum committee for approval and could go into effect as early as this fall.
The redesigned curriculum combines several areas of study under one umbrella, including film, journalism, strategic communication, sports communication, and communications. The goal, according to faculty, is to create a more unified, flexible, and career-ready program that mirrors successful models found at other Christian universities.
“We wanted to give students a more robust degree with more professional options,
experiences, and academic diversity,” said student publications advisor Holly Easttom. “We
hope to provide students with the knowledge and hands-on learning they need to thrive in multiple communication fields.”
The new structure will include a 24-hour communication core that every major must complete, ensuring a strong foundation across communication disciplines. From there, students will choose an emphasis area such as film, journalism, or sports communication to develop specialized skills aligned with their career goals.
Another key addition is an increased emphasis on experiential learning, allowing students to practice their craft both on and off campus. Through internships, on-campus productions, media collaborations, and partnerships with local organizations, students will gain professional experience while still completing their degree.
Easttom said this approach reflects the university’s commitment to preparing graduates not only academically but also practically.
“We’ve built more opportunities for students to engage directly in their field,” she explained. “They’ll
graduate not only with classroom knowledge but also with a portfolio of real-world experience.”
Faculty members involved in developing the new curriculum believe the update will make OBU’s program more competitive with other universities and better aligned with current industry expectations.
“I think it is more competitive with other universities and more in line with industry standards,” said Ann McNellis, assistant professor of communiications. “This will be a huge benefit for our students because it gives them a greater variety of classes and hands-on learning.”
McNellis noted that media industries continue to evolve rapidly with advances in digital technology, new storytelling platforms, and changing audience habits. Programs like OBU’s must therefore adapt to help students develop the technical, creative, and strategic skills employers now demand.
The restructured program also reflects a strong spirit of collaboration across departments. Faculty from various communication disciplines worked together to integrate the best of their individual expertise into one cohesive program.
“I really enjoyed working with my colleagues to plan and dream what we would
love for our students to experience,” said Dr. Kaylene Barbe, Frank W. Patterson Professor of Communications and professor of communication studies. “My favorite thing about this new program is how we came together across our disciplines, integrating what we do best and giving students the
opportunity to partake in all of it.”
Barbe added that she believes this approach will help graduates succeed more quickly once they enter the workforce.
“It gives them such a variety of courses and experiences that we believe will launch them into the workplace with success from the start,” she said.
While the curriculum is still awaiting formal approval, faculty members are optimistic about its implementation in the upcoming academic year. The plan represents months of discussion, research, and collaboration aimed at strengthening OBU’s communications offerings and keeping pace with both higher education trends and the job market’s shifting needs.
If approved, students entering the communications program next fall will experience the full benefits of the redesigned structure, from the foundational courses to specialized tracks and immersive learning experiences.
Ultimately, the new program embodies OBU’s broader mission to combine faith, knowledge, and professional preparation. As Barbe and her colleagues emphasize, it’s about giving students not only the tools to succeed in media and communication but also the confidence and calling to use their gifts purposefully.
“We’re excited about what’s ahead,” Easttom said. “This is a new chapter for OBU communications, and we believe our students will truly thrive in it.”
