Dr. Holly Gruhlke Vice President | Dickinson State University
Dr. Holly Gruhlke Vice President | Dickinson State University
Dickinson State University (DSU) has announced the introduction of a Bachelor of Science in Applied Communication and a certificate in Sports Production and Broadcasting. These programs aim to prepare students for careers in communication through practical learning experiences and industry connections.
The programs will utilize DSU's newly renovated Digital Media Studio, which features podcasting stations, a green screen production room, and mobile video equipment. This facility will allow students to gain hands-on experience with professional technology.
Scheduled to launch in Fall 2026, the programs are currently undergoing curriculum development and accreditation. Students interested in these new offerings are advised to enroll in DSU’s current Bachelor of Science in Communication for foundational coursework.
To support these initiatives, DSU has hired two new faculty members. Dr. CarrieLynn Reinhard brings academic expertise in applied communication and a history of teaching innovation. Stefanie Aulner joins with experience from the sports production industry.
Dr. Reinhard earned her Ph.D. from The Ohio State University and has held positions at Roskilde University and Dominican University. She is an accomplished author working on projects related to sensemaking studies and political fandom.
Dr. Reinhard expressed enthusiasm about launching the new program: “I am excited to help the Applied Communications program get started, given how much of an advocate I am for communication literacy,” she said.
These faculty members will collaborate with Dr. Chris Olson from DSU’s communication department to advance the vision for applied communication education at DSU.
“These programs represent a bold step forward in how we think about communication education,” said Dr. Joan Aus, Dean of the School of Education.
Dr. Holly Gruhlke, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, noted that these offerings show DSU's commitment to career-ready programs: “With our investments in technology and talent, we are building programs that offer students access to transformative learning experiences right here in southwestern North Dakota.”
For more information on DSU’s communication programs, visit www.dickinsonstate.edu
Alerts Sign-up