Big things are happening at UWO! We’re changing up our academic framework to create a stronger, more dynamic learning experience, one that boosts financial efficiency, balances resources and fosters collaboration. One of the results? The creation of the College of Business, Arts & Communication (CoBAC), where business, creativity and communication come together to prepare students for the careers of today and tomorrow. CoBAC combines the School of Business (SoB), currently known as the College of Business, and the newly formed School of Media, Arts & Communication (MAC). This dynamic duo opens the door for students to blend creativity with business savvy and communication expertise, key ingredients for success in today’s ever-evolving job market.

Here are three game-changing ways CoBAC will benefit current and future students:

Gain Hands-On Experience in the Classroom

At CoBAC, students don’t just learn—they do. Real-world experience starts in the classroom through interactive projects, industry collaborations and portfolio-building opportunities that help students showcase their skills and stand out in their field.  Some impactful learning experiences CoBAC offers include:

• Graphic Design Portfolio (MAC): Design students fine-tune their best work to create a standout portfolio that wows employers and helps them land industry jobs.
• Radio TV Film Studio Production (MAC): Want to produce your own TV show? In this course, students create everything from news broadcasts to sitcoms while learning the ins and outs of live production.
• Information Systems Shaping the Digital Future (SoB): Tech meets impact, in this class students work with local nonprofits to streamline operations and enhance efficiency using AI-powered solutions.
• Digital Marketing (SoB): Students harness paid SEO tools to track website traffic and measure business impact, turning data into powerful marketing strategies.

Explore, Collaborate and Learn Across Disciplines

CoBAC isn’t just a new name—it’s an evolving approach to learning. By merging business, arts and communication disciplines, we’re creating a space where strategy and creativity go hand in hand. And that collaboration gives students a serious edge in the job market. Take Interactive Web Management, for example. This major pulls from multiple fields including information systems, computer science, marketing and multimedia journalism to create a well-rounded digital expert. Whether it’s coding, data analysis, digital marketing or content creation, students develop a broad, in-demand skill set that sets them up for dynamic careers in web development and beyond.

Expand Your Network & Career Opportunities

It’s not just what you know, it’s who you meet. CoBAC is packed with opportunities to connect with industry professionals, alumni and mentors who can help launch your career. Some impactful networking and career-building experiences include:

• College to Career Connections (SoB): Business students connect with employers and industry professionals, opening doors to internships and full-time jobs.
• Art Exhibitions (MAC): The Department of Art hosts gallery events where students can showcase their work, network with faculty and alumni and gain exposure in the creative industry.
• Competitions (MAC): The Advertising, Multimedia Journalism, and Public Relations department fosters student creativity through national competitions. Whether it’s the Hearst Journalism Awards, the Bateman Case Study Competition, the National Organ Donor Awareness Campaign or the National Student Advertising Competition, students gain real-world experience, earn national recognition, and build a competitive edge in their field.

Create Your Future at CoBAC

From business analytics to media production, CoBAC offers the perfect blend of hands-on learning and career preparation. Whether you’re a creative thinker, a data-driven strategist or somewhere in between, CoBAC gives you the tools to turn your passion into a career. So, what’s next? Explore, collaborate and make your mark because at CoBAC, the future is yours to create.