Department of Communications and Visual Arts
About
At the Department of Communications and Visual Arts (CVA) at Central State University, we empower our students with the skills to excel in a diverse and interconnected world. We emphasize the importance of strong written, oral, and visual communication, guiding our students in crafting messages that resonate across cultures and languages. Our curriculum goes beyond the basics — students learn to conduct meaningful research, leverage cutting-edge technology, and create visuals that captivate and inspire. We also instill an appreciation for global cultures, equipping our students to communicate effectively in multiple languages.
In today’s competitive landscape, research and communication skills are vital across various fields, including journalism, public relations, strategic media, law, education, marketing, advertising, and sales. Employers recognize the value of these skills as they drive innovation, enhance customer relations, and ensure businesses stay ahead of industry trends.
At Central State University, we understand that effective communication is the cornerstone of success. It’s about conveying ideas clearly, building relationships, and influencing others — skills that are essential for leadership and career advancement. Whether through words, visuals, or cross-cultural understanding, our graduates are prepared to make a lasting impact in their chosen professions.
Our programs
The CVA department hosts six academic programs: Communications, Composition and Creative Writing, International Languages and Cultures, Graphic Design, Studio Art, and Art Education.
The Communications program is ideal for students who want to pursue careers in journalism and strategic media (including public relations and social media) or allied fields such as marketing, advertising, law, and education.
The Composition and Creative Writing program is ideal for students who want to become writers, teachers, lawyers, and researchers.
The International Languages and Cultures program is ideal for students who want to pursue a career in any field that puts a premium on international languages, including law enforcement, healthcare, education, translation, and international relations, and business.
The Studio Art program is for students who want to pursue the creation of paintings, pottery, or similarly physical pieces.
The Graphic Design program equips students to work with digital creations for the marketplace.
The Art Education program prepares students to share the joy of art with future generations while also improving your own creations
About our facilities
The CVA department is housed in three buildings on campus. The Communications program is located in the Mass Communications Center, located between William Patrick McPherson Memorial Stadium and Ohio 42. The WCSU FM radio tower is just outside the building.
The Mass Communications Center has two classrooms, a computer lab, a television studio, editing suites, a student lounge, and faculty offices.
Both the Composition and Creative Writing program and the International Languages and Cultures program are located in Charles H. Wesley Arts & Science Building, a three-story brick building on Brush Row Road across from the Harry M. Lackey/Benjamin F. Lee Health Center.
Wesley Hall has a a large, ground floor auditorium, numerous classrooms, and faculty offices. The Office of the Dean is located on the first floor.
All three Visual Arts programs are housed in the Paul Robeson Cultural & Performing Arts Center, which has art studios, numerous classrooms, and multiple auditoriums that host our Speaker Series with Procter & Gamble leaders, giving students the resources and connections they need to thrive.