The Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Humanities (First Degree) is the academic title awarded by the School of Church Communication of the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross to students who have successfully completed the First Cycle of studies lasting three years.
The title, awarded by authority of the Holy See (Apostolic Constitution Veritatis gaudium, art. 46 of the Common Norms), allows access to the Licentiate in Institutional Social Communication but also to other Licentiate Program or Second Cycle studies (Master's Degree) in other universities, in Italy or abroad, in related fields: literature, journalism, history, political science, pedagogy, etc., in compliance with the regulations of the Holy See and the individual institutions.
To obtain the Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Humanities, it is necessary to obtain the credits required for the First Cycle (180 ECTS credits), at the end of which the student will have to take a final exam.
A solid human and Christian formation
Through the systematic study of subjects in the field of communication, humanities, history, philosophy and theology, the student will acquire the anthropological and cultural foundations necessary to be able to best interpret the realities of the contemporary world. Encouraged to look to the future with hope, with a proactive attitude that recognizes the challenges of the present and, at the same time, sees in them an opportunity for improvement, the Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Humanities aims to train people inspired by Christian principles capable of positively influencing the society in which they live. In this sense, it is an expression “closely linked to the evangelizing mission of the Church” (Apostolic Constitution Veritatis gaudium, 1) directed to that “original apologetics” (Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii gaudium, 132) indicated by Pope Francis at the beginning of his pontificate.
The curriculum, divided into several levels, encourages an approach that combines emotional intelligence and contextual intelligence. The former allows students to promote empathetic and authentic communication in an increasingly complex and pluralistic society, often based on superficial relationships, as well as manage their emotions, facilitating deeper and more meaningful relationships. Contextual intelligence, on the other hand, provides the analytical tools to interpret and understand reality in all its facets, allowing students to deal with issues of social and cultural relevance in a critical and informed way.
One of the objectives of the course of study lies in promoting the unity of knowledge through the study of classical subjects – such as logic and rhetoric – updated and completed for the needs of the contemporary world. The underlying reason is to draw on the solid and rich Christian cultural heritage, which has historically contributed to the formation of Western thought and the definition of fundamental human values. This heritage is not only a cultural heritage, but, being alive, it also represents a source of inspiration and reflection that encourages students to actively engage contemporary society, providing them with interpretative keys. Furthermore, the study of the great thinkers of the past, their texts and their ideas, stimulates a deep reflection on ethical and philosophical issues, forming a critical conscience and social responsibility. In an age in which information and opinions are abundant, the ability to discern, analyze and evaluate different perspectives is more precious than ever.
Ideas before technology
The intellectual and cultural development of the person is the primary task of the university, a place of human as well as professional growth. Investing in the intellectual abilities of students, in the unique talents of each, allows us to break out of the circle of the technicality of professions to focus more on the qualities of the human person and be ready to manage complex processes. The Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Humanities aims to convey anthropological foundations for an understanding of communication as a human action in all its dimensions, not from a technical perspective ("How to do") but from a teleological and meaningful perspective ("What it does mean"). In this sense, the course of study is structured - through essays, readings, debates, working in groups, seminars, meetings with experts - to stimulate discussions, opinions and the ability to delve into issues so that students are able to choose which information to follow and which to discard, even before acting with a technical and technological means. For this reason, the subjects and the course of study favor discussion and dialogue for the formation of ideas.
Developing critical and proactive skills
For this reason, one of the main objectives of the Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Humanities is to develop in students a critical mindset, that attitude, that conscious attitude towards reality necessary to not get lost in the mere assimilation of theoretical concepts, but to be able to interpret information with independent judgment and not as mere professional technicians at the service of their clients. This process is especially valid in the field of humanistic studies and communication, where a deep understanding of the surrounding world and its dynamics is crucial. Students are invited to question the easy solutions sometimes proposed by society and suggest innovative ideas, against the grain if necessary, and following Christian principles to actively participate in intellectual debates in the service of the common good.
Focus on the ethical and value dimensions
Academic education also aims to integrate the ethical and value dimensions into the growth path of students. Christian reflection involves a deepening of the ethical and moral principles offered by its tradition, which can act as a guide in making difficult decisions, facing both personal and professional challenges. This reflection is based on a balanced and profound vision of the human being, which recognizes the dignity and value of each person. This understanding is essential to train professionals who are not only able to excel in their careers, but who also know how to take charge of the moral implications of their actions, always putting the person and the good of the community at the center.
Training leaders capable of making decisions
One of the main challenges in the educational field today is the need to train competent and responsible leaders. Even in the field of communication, reference figures are required who are capable of making thoughtful choices and with a vision that goes beyond the technical aspects of the profession. A solid ethical and cultural basis is urgently needed that serves as a reference for the formation of the right mentality. This is one of the objectives of the Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Humanities, pursued through workshops, collaborative projects and real problem-solving situations, where students can test their skills, dealing with ethical dilemmas and complex challenges. Learning environments are not limited to traditional classrooms, but evolve into dynamic spaces outside the university building – such as events, conferences, collaborations, training experiences – where students can experiment, make mistakes and reaffirm themselves, thus developing virtuous attitudes such as prudence, fortitude, patience, work organization and the necessary resilience typical of those who must make decisions in uncertain and, at times, competitive contexts.
Experiencing Rome [“Imparare Roma”]
Rome, with its rich history, its spiritual and cultural heritage, thus becomes an unparalleled learning laboratory. Students have the opportunity to experience the center of Christianity, immersing themselves in its art, its architecture and its religious life. This experience not only enriches their personal background, but invites them to reflect on the meaning of tradition and innovation in a universal historical context. Experiencing Rome means above all:
Living in the center of Christianity:
Rome – with the Vatican, seat of the apostle Peter – is the spiritual heart of millions of believers in the world. Living in Rome gives students the unique opportunity to come into contact with the DNA of the Eternal City, its identity and its contradictions. The cultural visits organized by the faculty's professors to the Roman basilicas and numerous churches, organizations, institutions, historical and artistic sites enrich the students' studies, indelibly influencing their future.
Acquire a network of contacts and opportunities:
Studying in Rome offers students access to a vast international network of experts, professionals and academics, meetings with leading figures in the field of religious communication, journalism and the media, as well as events, conferences and seminars. These contacts can prove invaluable for their professional future.
Experience multiculturalism:
Rome is a global city that welcomes people of different cultures, languages and religions. For students this represents an extraordinary opportunity to meet and relate to develop skills that are increasingly in demand in the contemporary world.
Church Communications Hub:
Rome is a hub for media and communications, hosting numerous newspapers, public relations agencies and communications offices of religious organizations and institutions. Being in Rome allows students to gain a first-hand understanding of how the Church communicates its messages in contemporary society and to understand the communication strategies used in religious and non-profit contexts. The Dicastery for Communication and the Press Office of the Holy See are just some of the institutional bodies with which to collaborate.
International and multicultural academic environment
One of the most enriching and appreciated aspects by students is the international and multicultural dimension of the course of study, which allows them to come into contact with different cultures, languages, traditions and mentalities. Far from being an obstacle, it represents an essential and unique wealth that allows them to build lasting relationships in every part of the world. Although the main language of instruction is Italian, knowledge of English is a necessary requirement to obtain the Baccalaureate title, considering the importance of this language in today's world. Students are also encouraged to learn other languages to increase their cultural background and grow professionally.
The teaching staff is made up of professionals from different countries, with civil and ecclesiastical degrees (in theology and philosophy) and with consolidated professional experience in teaching and varied experiences from the fields of journalism and communication. It is a very close-knit team that has worked together for many years, also made up of new young teachers. Furthermore, almost all the teachers speak at least three or four languages.
Cohesive academic community
A cohesive academic community – which also includes teachers, researchers and administrative staff – acts as a fundamental support in the growth path of students. In an environment where authentic relationships are cultivated, everyone can feel part of a real family. Students will find a welcoming environment: in addition to having personal Tutors responsible for guiding them during the three years of study, they will experience a context in which a sense of belonging, trust and mutual friendship will be stimulated, creating bonds that last over time. It is no coincidence that the Faculty gives great importance to the relationship with the Alumni with whom a continuous relationship is maintained even in post-academic life.
Furthermore, the Faculty, together with the students, also organize cultural and sports activities, trips, pilgrimages and celebratory moments, to accentuate and amplify this sense of community.
The university services allow the Baccalaureate students to follow their spiritual, physical, and even nutritional needs, to facilitate their adaptation during the period of study.
Skills map
In summary, the Baccalaureate in Communication and Humanities guarantees the acquisition of a variety of skills (soft skills) such as: Intellectual curiosity, ability to adapt to change, team spirit, respect and empathy towards others, initiative, creativity, problem-solving, self-discipline and organizational skills, critical and constructive mentality, practical skills in the communication field, etc.
Career opportunities and future
Once the Bachelor is completed, one of the possibilities offered to students is to continue with the Second Cycle of studies thanks to direct access to the Licentiate (Master's Degree) in Institutional Communication, lasting two academic years. In this way, deepening the study in the fields of communication, Public Relations, strategic and corporate communication, digital and cultural communication, journalism, media relations, audiovisual field, storytelling, etc.
The Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Humanities also allows access to other Licentiates or Second Cycle studies (Master's Degree) in other universities, in Italy or abroad, in related fields: literature, journalism, history, political science, pedagogy, etc., in compliance with the regulations of the Holy See and the individual institutions.
A second possibility is to enter directly into the work environment. In this sense, the Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Humanities with a solid human and classical education, together with the communication bases, allows one to orient oneself towards jobs and professions that vary from the field of information and media, to publishing and audiovisual communication wherever a specialization from a Master's Degree is not required.
Course Teaching and Areas of Study
Attendance at the degree course is mandatory and agreed with the Study Coordinator.
The course is divided into four main areas of study: Philosophy, Humanism, Theology and Communication, for a total of 38 subjects and 6 seminars. In detail:
5 subjects in the area of Philosophy: Theory of knowledge (Epistemology), Philosophy of Man, Political Philosophy, Philosophy of Religions, Moral Philosophy.
7 subjects in the area of Theology: Church and ecumenical dialogue; Bioethics: beginning and end of life; The language of the Bible; Foundations of Christian action; Introduction to the Christian mystery; The reasons for believing.
15 subjects in the Humanities: Christianity and Society I: Ancient History; History of Christian Literature (English); Christianity and Society II: The Medieval World; Universal Literature and the Communication of Faith; The Art of Persuasion (Rhetoric); Great Books I: The Ancient Classics and the Great Themes of Man; Great Books II: Love and Interpersonal and Social Relations; Great Books III: guilt, revenge-forgiveness, social injustice; Great Books IV: the individual and the state; Sacred Art in Rome: from Antiquity to the present (English); Christian Art and Communication; Christianity and Society III: the modern and contemporary world; History of Contemporary Ideas; Music and the Communication of Faith; Methodology of the Humanities.
21 subjects in the area of Communication: Communication Theory; Public Opinion; Journalistic Language I: Analysis and Practice [lab]; Audiovisual Language; Storytelling in Communication; Society and Human Behavior (General Sociology); Television Communication I [lab]; Television Communication II [lab]; Audiovisual Screenwriting (Scriptwriting) [lab]; Film History and Culture; Film Theory and Language; Artificial Intelligence and Human Development; Communication Technology; Digital Communication III: Social Media Training; Radio I: Live News Production [lab]; Radio II: Editing and Podcasts [lab]; Communication Industry and Markets; Service Marketing; Great Books V: Communication Classics; Great Books VI: Communication Classics; Professional Experiences: Meetings with Communicators [lab].
In addition to workshops, cultural visits, Soft Skills (languages, team building, transversal skills).
Enrollment requirements
1. High school diploma (e.g., High School in the USA, Bachillerato in Spain, Baccalauréat in France)
2. Be of legal age (or minor with parental permission)
In addition to the other rules, common to all faculties of the University.
To enroll in the Licentiate in Institutional Communication (Master's Degree) the following is required:
● Bachelor in Communication and Humanities. If you come from other Bachelor's degrees, after study by the Faculty Steering Committee, the student will be able to access with the integration of the necessary subjects.
● For those who are admitted to the Licentiate but would also like the Baccalaureate title, they should do at least 2 full years of Bachelor
