University of Tennessee Unveils Groundbreaking Fully Online Bachelor of Science in Communication and Information

University of Tennessee Launches Fully Online BSCI Program

On June 25, 2025, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, made headlines by announcing the introduction of Tennessee's inaugural fully online Bachelor of Science in Communication and Information (BSCI). This groundbreaking offering from the College of Communication and Information (CCI) provides students with the opportunity to enhance their educational journey and career prospects in the rapidly evolving fields of communication and information.

The BSCI program is designed to accommodate the busy lives of today’s students, allowing them to complete coursework at their convenience. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for community college graduates and individuals with accumulated college credits seeking to complete their education or obtain a second bachelor’s degree. The absence of mandatory live sessions means that students can efficiently balance their studies with professional and personal commitments, ensuring that their education aligns seamlessly with their lifestyles.

Graduates of the BSCI program will acquire critical skills in various domains, including advertising, public relations, communication studies, information sciences, and journalism. The curriculum is tailored to meet industry demands, emphasizing essential topics like social media strategies, digital content creation, user-centered design, and leadership capabilities.

Dean Joseph Mazer of CCI expressed enthusiasm about the innovative program, stating, "Few institutions offer an online communication and information program that integrates knowledge from various fields, highlighting an educational gap we aim to fill. We are excited to provide a flexible program preparing students for diverse communication and information roles across industries."

The curriculum is intentionally crafted to reflect the University of Tennessee's unwavering commitment to accessible education. CCI guarantees that students receive exemplary instruction from esteemed professors who are recognized leaders in their respective fields. These instructors bring innovative research and educational excellence to the online environment, ensuring students receive the highest quality experience.

"The University of Tennessee continues to utilize innovative solutions to broaden access to higher education, particularly for the residents of Tennessee," added Mazer. "This commitment to our land-grant mission is embedded in CCI's strategic plan. By establishing accessible, high-quality programs, we believe our graduates will be equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to make a significant impact in their lives and Tennessee's workforce."

Applications for the fully online BSCI program are now open. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the program further by visiting the BSCI page. You can find details regarding program structure, admission requirements, and the next steps to embark on your academic journey.

About the University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Founded in 1794, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville has a long-standing tradition of shaping leaders and innovative thinkers. The university serves more than 38,000 students—known as the Volunteers—who exemplify a commitment to leadership and service within and beyond their communities. With over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools, UT holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity, featuring strong partnerships with industry leaders and the U.S. Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

About the College of Communication and Information

CCI encompasses four schools: the School of Communication Studies, the School of Information Sciences, the School of Journalism and Media, and the Tombras School of Advertising and Public Relations. The college offers five undergraduate majors, ten minors, two master's degrees, and a PhD program, all supported by a robust curriculum and hands-on opportunities that align with current industry trends.

About Vols Online

Vols Online is the University of Tennessee's digital learning platform, providing access to over 70 fully remote Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees and certificates across various fields. Sharing the same faculty and spirit as the on-campus experience, Vols Online creates an enriching educational environment for students seeking flexibility in their higher education journey.