, /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Tennessee, Knoxville's College of Communication and Information (CCI) is proud to announce Tennessee's first fully online Bachelor of Science in Communication and Information (BSCI). Offered through the university's online platform, Vols Online, this innovative program aims to provide a flexible, high-quality education for students looking to advance their careers in today's competitive communication and information sectors. 

The BSCI program allows bachelor's degree students to complete coursework at their own pace by attending classes at any time. Community college graduates and students with college credits can use it to complete their education, including obtaining a second bachelor's degree. With flexible coursework and no mandatory live sessions, students can balance studies with work and personal commitments, aligning their goals with busy schedules.

Graduates will gain expertise in advertising, public relations, communication studies, information sciences, and journalism. This blend of in-demand skills prepares them to excel in industries where effective communication and information management are vital. BSCI courses emphasize social media strategies, digital content creation, user-centered design, and leadership.

"Few institutions offer an online communication and information program that integrates knowledge from various fields, highlighting an educational gap we aim to fill. We are excited to provide a flexible program preparing students for diverse communication and information roles across industries," said CCI Dean Joseph Mazer.

The program's curriculum reflects UT's commitment to accessible education that prepares students for real-world employment opportunities. Students benefit from expert instruction by CCI professors, who are recognized for their innovative research and excellence. 

"The University of Tennessee continues to use innovative solutions to increase access to higher education, especially for the residents of Tennessee, and the College of Communication and Information is proud to be a part of those efforts. This land-grant mission is embedded in CCI's strategic plan, and by creating accessible, high-quality programs, we believe our graduates will be equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to make an impact in their lives and Tennessee's workforce," Mazer said.

Applications are now open for the fully online BSCI program. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the BSCI page to learn more about the program structure, admission requirements, and next steps.

About the University of Tennessee, Knoxville 

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. UT is home to more than 38,000 students—the Volunteers—who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. The university offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, UT has a footprint that spans the entire state with the Space Institute in Tullahoma and Institute of Agriculture Extension offices in all 95 counties. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

About the College of Communication & Information

The College of Communication and Information (CCI) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is home to four schools: the School of Communication Studies, the School of Information Sciences, the School of Journalism and Media, and the Tombras School of Advertising and Public Relations. CCI offers five undergraduate majors, ten minors, two master's degrees, and a PhD program, each supported by quality curriculum in the classroom and real-world opportunities outside of it. The college's programming emphasizes learning through hands-on experience and staying current with industry trends to prepare the next generation of communication and information leaders.

About Vols Online

Vols Online is the University of Tennessee, Knoxville's digital learning platform. As a leader in online education, Vols Online provides more than 70 fully remote Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees and certificates across many departments and colleges. An integral part of UT, Vols Online's degree programs share the same faculty, education, degrees, and Volunteer spirit as the on-campus experience.

SOURCE The University of Tennessee