Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies

Steeped in history and dedicated to growth, New England College (NEC) is more than an institution of higher learning. Picture a majestic tree with its strong roots, diverse branches, and thousands of leaves, each unique and integral to the whole. Now imagine NEC as that tree, a flourishing community of diverse minds deeply rooted in the soil of academic rigour, standing tall in the heartland of New England.

Doesn't the opportunity to study in such a vibrant, diverse, and connected community invoke a sense of anticipation and excitement? That's NEC for you! It's a place where knowledge is nurtured, talent is honed, and future leaders are forged.

NEC is not just about books and classrooms; it's about building a nurturing ecosystem that transcends conventional learning. Picture a bustling hive, humming with activity. Now, replace the bees with students and the hive with the clubs and societies NEC proudly fosters. The students, like bees, bring life and energy to the institution, making it a lively, exciting place to be. It's no wonder that the student life at NEC is as dynamic and varied as the courses it offers.

Where does NEC stand on the global stage? Imagine a pulsating network, like the world wide web, connecting people from different backgrounds, industries, and nations. NEC's robust alumni network resembles this vast web, drawing strength from its 12,000 members across the United States and beyond. This intricate network serves as a bridge, connecting NEC's past with its future, thereby ensuring a resilient community.

What about the support system at NEC? Think of it as a safety net, always present, offering assistance when needed. NEC's vital counselling services and wellness centre act as this safety net, offering all its students emotional and physical health services.

So, is NEC the right choice for international students? The answer is a resounding yes with its high-quality education, wide-ranging programs, diversity and inclusivity, top-tier facilities, vibrant student life, and strong alumni network! As a lighthouse guides the lost ship to its harbour, NEC is a beacon, guiding its students to a bright and prosperous future. Choose New England College, and be a part of a legacy that grows daily.

Remember, at NEC, you are not just a student but part of a vibrant, global community that values, respects, and celebrates every individual. This is the essence of NEC, where you don't just study; you thrive!

Campus Location

When one thinks of New England College (NEC), it is impossible not to envision the stunning campuses that are integral to the NEC experience. Nestled in the serene countryside of southern New Hampshire, the Henniker campus is an idyllic environment perfect for focused learning and outdoor pursuits. Less than a 90-minute drive from Boston, this campus is replete with natural beauty, offering access to rivers and trails right on site. On the other hand, the Manchester campus presents students with the vibrancy of city life, featuring an array of coffee shops, music, restaurants, and cultural events, all within walking distance.

The New England College campuses are strategically located. The primary Henniker and Manchester campuses are just 30 minutes apart, with a convenient shuttle service available for students. Both campuses are approximately 15 minutes from Concord, the capital of New Hampshire, about an hour from Boston, and roughly four hours from New York City and Montreal, Canada. With a blend of urban and rural experiences, NEC campuses offer the best of both worlds.

At NEC, learning extends beyond the classrooms. The Manchester campus houses the prestigious Institute of Art and Design, fostering a community of passionate faculty and students who thrive on creativity. This campus is a hub for the arts, with state-of-the-art studios and world-class guidance. On the other hand, the Henniker campus is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Just minutes away from snow sports at Pats Peak, this campus offers many outdoor activities while delivering a top-tier education.

NEC’s dedication to student comfort and convenience is evident in providing a free shuttle service. This service operates daily between the campuses, with additional runs to Concord, the Concord bus station, and Manchester airport before and after college breaks. This commitment to student welfare is another factor that makes NEC the ideal choice for international students.

Study Areas

New England College offers a broad array of study programs, emphasising the importance of the liberal arts tradition in all disciplines. NEC's Management Division prepares students to become ethical, responsible citizens who understand the changing global economic and political landscape. Courses such as business, economics, and public relations fuse to equip students with critical thinking and analytical skills for managing resources, information, and ideas in various professional settings.

In contrast, the Arts & Humanities Division at NEC endeavours to promote an understanding of what it is to be human and explores how humans interact with each other and the environment. The curriculum emphasises critical and creative thought, ethical values, respect for cultural diversity, an appreciation for beauty and elegance, and knowledge of human cultures and environments. Students have numerous undergraduate programs, from Art, Communications Studies, and Creative Writing to History and Modern Languages.

The Natural & Social Sciences Division integrates scientific methods into liberal arts traditions, empowering students to understand the universe better. NEC endeavours to develop critical and quantitative thinking and encourage students to see scientific methods as universal problem-solving techniques. In the School of Graduate and Professional Studies, NEC removes obstacles to educational advancement and opens new pathways leading to professional development and personal enrichment.

Diversity and Inclusion

At New England College, fostering an inclusive, student-centred environment is a top priority. The Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) is devoted to creating programs and services that boost self-awareness, academic success, cross-cultural engagement, and individual and collective advocacy. The ODI's mission is to assist in building an inclusive campus environment that respects every person, values equity, appreciates all cultures, and promotes diverse ideas within the NEC community.

Through the Passport Program, NEC aims to provide academic support, peer-to-peer guidance, and cultural and leadership development for first-year students identifying as African, Latino/Asian, and Native American. The program facilitates the transition from high school to college, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging academic achievement.

NEC's efforts towards creating a more inclusive campus also extend to the LGBTQ+ community. The Pride Center at NEC strives to create an open and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. With resources and support services dedicated specifically to the LGBTQ+ community, NEC ensures that these students feel safe, respected, and valued.

In the context of religious and spiritual diversity, NEC's Campus Ministry welcomes students from all religious, spiritual, and philosophical backgrounds. The ministry facilitates opportunities for spiritual growth, dialogue, and understanding among different faith traditions. It's a testament to NEC's commitment to the holistic development of its students and respect for all faiths.

Student life - Clubs and Societies

New England College offers a variety of student clubs and organisations, providing students with numerous opportunities to get involved on campus, develop leadership skills, and make new friends. The Student Entertainment Committee (SEC) is a unique, student-run organisation. SEC's mission revolves around creating memorable events for the NEC community, including movie nights, trivia nights, open ice skating, and many more, providing students with ample entertainment options.

NEC's Student Senate is crucial in representing student concerns and desires. Comprising students from all aspects of campus life, the Senate is the recognised voice of the students, maintaining regular correspondence with faculty, staff, and administration. Open to any student, this body empowers the NEC community, making it an essential part of campus life.

The Institute of Art and Design at NEC, located on the Manchester campus, offers many art and design classes and events. From hobbyists to aspiring professionals, students can take advantage of visiting artists, professional exhibitions, and more. The Rosamond Page Putnam Center for Performing Arts, a newly constructed 350-seat multi-level facility on the Henniker campus, is a versatile space for theatre and dance performances, music performances, and town hall meetings.

Several galleries located in both Henniker and Manchester regularly host artist talks, exhibitions, and other events. This robust collection of student life activities further enriches the NEC experience, offering students a broad palette of experiences beyond their regular academic pursuits.

Campus Facilities

The campus facilities at New England College cater to the diverse needs of its students. NEC provides a turf field, a gymnasium, 26 acres of athletic fields, tennis courts, and a turfed field house for sports enthusiasts. Located less than two miles away, the Pats Peak Ski Area is available for alpine skiers at no cost. A fitness centre is located on campus in the lower level of Bridges Gymnasium, housing the offices of the Director of Athletics, Associate Director of Athletics, coaches, and athletic trainers.

NEC emphasises the role of recreational sports as an integral part of student life. It encourages all College community members to participate in team competitions such as flag football, basketball, volleyball, and softball. Individual sports like tennis are also offered.

New England College's commitment to student welfare is apparent in its counselling services. NEC provides a full-time counsellor on the Manchester campus in Concord Hall, providing free individual counselling services. The college adheres to all HIPAA laws, ensuring the confidentiality and respect of its students' privacy.

NEC’s Wellness Center, located in Hill House, is dedicated to students' physical and emotional health. Comprising fully licensed personnel, including nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and licensed mental health counsellors/social workers, the centre provides free services for all full-time undergraduate students.

Alumni Network

The Office of Advancement at New England College bridges the past with the future, which is vital in keeping NEC graduates connected to the college and each other. The NEC Alumni Association, with over 12,000 members and growing, provides a potent network that spans the United States and around the globe. This vibrant network is characterised by its strength, experience, and various talents.

Volunteering through the Association is one of many ways alumni can stay active and engaged in the life of their alma mater. Opportunities range from speaking to a class, working with prospective students, planning receptions or class reunions, to making donations to support student scholarships, program development, athletic activities, and much more. These contributions from alumni ensure NEC’s ongoing strength and success.

As part of its commitment to alumni, New England College offers the Pilgrim Plus Alumni Scholarship. This benefit is a 25% tuition discount applied to graduate-level classes across various graduate programs exclusively for NEC alumni. Moreover, the Legacy Scholarship provides generous support for children of alumni, demonstrating NEC's dedication to its community, past, present, and future.

New England College hosts alumni events in cities and towns across the USA, extending the spirit of NEC beyond the campus. These occasions celebrate the achievements of NEC alumni and promote a sense of community and belonging among the graduates. The periodic Pilgrim Pulse Alumni Newsletter and the bi-annual New England College Magazine keep the alumni community updated with NEC highlights, student and faculty achievements, athletic spotlights, event reminders, and updates from former classmates.

Why Study at New England College?

• New England College provides various undergraduate and graduate programs focusing on the liberal arts tradition.
• The college values diversity and inclusivity, ensuring every student feels respected and valued, regardless of background.
• NEC offers numerous student clubs and societies that enrich the college experience, fostering a vibrant community.
• The college’s campus facilities cater to every student's needs, providing athletic fields, a fitness centre, counselling services, and a wellness centre.
• NEC’s strategic location offers urban and rural experiences, with the campuses well-connected to major cities.
• The college has a strong alumni network that allows students to connect with a global community of NEC graduates.
• NEC offers scholarships to alumni and children of alumni, supporting lifelong learning and the education of future generations.