Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Crises.

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Crises at UAQU prepares students to lead and manage communications in high-pressure, crisis-driven environments by combining communication theory with strategic crisis planning and media skills. It suits students aspiring to careers in crisis communication, public relations, emergency response, and media strategy across government, corporate, and nonprofit sectors.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students establish a foundation in communication and media fundamentals through courses like Introduction to Digital Journalism, Introduction to Public Relations, Introduction to New Media, and Introduction to Communication and Crises. They also complete essential university requirements such as English, Arabic, computer applications, and university-level core subjects that strengthen academic communication skills. This year sets the groundwork in basic media principles, communication contexts, and critical thinking.

Year 2

The second year deepens theoretical and research skills with units including Communication Theories, Research Methodology, Media Ethics and Legislations, as well as Arabic language for media purposes. Students gain a stronger grasp of communication frameworks, ethical considerations, and social and political contexts influencing crisis communication practices. This stage equips students with analytical tools that are crucial for handling complex communication challenges.

Year 3

In the third year, the focus shifts to crisis-specific and advanced communication courses such as Communication and Negotiation in Crisis Management, Public Relations and Crisis Management, and Traditional and New Media in Crisis Management. Students begin applying strategic thinking to real-world crisis scenarios, exploring how negotiation, media channels, and public relations intersect during emergencies. Additional units like Crisis Planning and Communication Strategies further develop planning and implementation skills for communication responses.

Year 4

The final year emphasizes professional preparation and hands-on experience with courses like Production of Media Materials in Crises and Disasters, Applications of AI in Communication and Crises, and Special Topics in Communication and Crises. Students also complete a Graduation Project in Communication and Crises and an Internship in Communication and Crises, which provide practical experience and a capstone demonstration of their strategic communication capabilities in crisis contexts.

Focus areas (in a string):

Crisis communication strategy, negotiation, media materials production, public relations in emergencies, digital and traditional media integration

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Graduates will understand communication and crisis principles, apply strategic communication techniques, design crisis plans, use media tools ethically, and collaborate effectively in high-pressure environments.

Professional alignment (accreditation):

The program is accredited by the UAE’s Ministry of Education and the Commission for Academic Accreditation, aligning with regional higher education quality standards.

Reputation (employability rankings):

Umm Al Quwain University is accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education; specific global employability rankings (e.g., QS/Guardian) are not publicly listed for this program.