Hugh Downs School of Human Communication
Fact sheet The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Leading global impact and innovative solutions
Exploring the complex role of human communication
In a technology-infused world, effective human communication is more important than ever. Our internationally recognized faculty work with students to better understand how communication can be used to improve society, communities, workplaces, and relationships.
Our faculty address communication issues that impact people’s lives, from socially-embedded research on local, national, and global concerns that contributes to a more peaceful, prosperous and equitable future, to research helping people communicate in healthier ways in relationships and workplaces.
Research and Mentorship Students have the opportunity to work with award-winning faculty. In 2022-23 the HDSHC graduated doctoral students who conducted research on topics such as compassion among healthcare workers, and disability microaggressions.
Communication: A toolbox for living
#1 in-demand skill
Communication is essential in all facets of life. Students in the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication develop skills that are valued across many industries. Learning how to understand, analyze and respond to communication problems and opportunities prepares students for the careers of today and tomorrow.
across the labor market according to Georgetown University
Award-winning faculty honored with numerous international and national awards for scholarship, teaching, and service
Accomplished alumni
15 of the Sun Devil 100 in 2023 are communication alum
Second-best major based on job prospects, alumni salaries and popularity, according to The Princeton Review
Top 10 rankings in intercultural communication, interpersonal communication, marriage and intimacy, sexuality, organizational communication and nonverbal communication
33%
31%
26%
66%
Pell Grant eligible
Underrepresented minority students
First generation students
Women
Dedicated to social change Our School focuses on changing lives for the better. Faculty have engaged in research on health and social disparity issues, gender inequity, peace-building, and collaborative decision-making.
Better communication with digital technology Our School is dedicated to conducting research that examines communication across various contexts, ranging from inperson interaction to technology-mediated communication.
Building a community of belonging
Strengthen the academic heart of ASU
The College strives to follow ASU’s charter as a “comprehensive public research university, measured not by whom we exclude, but rather by whom we include and how they succeed.”
The Hugh Downs School of Human Communication provides students the opportunity to pursue their interests in a rapidly changing world where communication, critical thinking, and collaboration are increasingly important. The diversity within our School, with students from all 50 states and 30 countries from around the globe, strengthens our ability to develop these skills.
Together, with our many units and centers, we are leading important conversations and research to support our diverse students, faculty and staff, and improve communities on a local, national and global scale. We’re building a community of belonging where every voice matters, and where new perspectives and histories are shared. Learn more about the work done in our centers and institutes at
thecollege.asu.edu/research/centers.
humancommunication.asu.edu/Give
1759 undergraduate students 582 bachelor’s degrees granted 20 tenure and tenure-track faculty 138 graduate degrees granted humancommunication.asu.edu
@asu_hughdowns @HDSHC
Stauffer Hall | A Wing 950 S. Forest Mall Tempe, AZ 85287 October 2023