Preparing Communicators for the AI Era
Why This Course Matters
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way professionals work, and the field of communication is no exception. To prepare students for this rapidly evolving landscape, the Department of Communication at the University of Utah is launching an innovative undergraduate course this spring: AI Prompting for Strategic Communication (COMM 3580).
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way professionals work, and the field of communication is no exception. To prepare students for this rapidly evolving landscape, the Department of Communication at the University of Utah is launching an innovative undergraduate course this spring: AI Prompting for Strategic Communication (COMM 3580).
What Students Will Learn
The course, taught by Andy J. King, Ph.D., Professor in the Department of Communication and member of Huntsman Cancer Institute, is designed to give students hands-on experience with AI tools that are becoming essential in professional communication workflows. Students will explore how multimodal large language models and other AI applications can improve efficiency, streamline repetitive tasks, and enhance creativity in strategic communication roles. From drafting content to optimizing workflows, the class focuses on practical applications that students can carry into their careers.
The course, taught by Andy J. King, Ph.D., Professor in the Department of Communication and member of Huntsman Cancer Institute, is designed to give students hands-on experience with AI tools that are becoming essential in professional communication workflows. Students will explore how multimodal large language models and other AI applications can improve efficiency, streamline repetitive tasks, and enhance creativity in strategic communication roles. From drafting content to optimizing workflows, the class focuses on practical applications that students can carry into their careers.
Beyond the Basics
This isn’t just about learning what AI can do. It’s about understanding its limitations, ethical considerations, and the expectations that come with using these tools responsibly. By experimenting with real-world scenarios, students will gain a nuanced perspective on how AI fits into professional practice.
This isn’t just about learning what AI can do. It’s about understanding its limitations, ethical considerations, and the expectations that come with using these tools responsibly. By experimenting with real-world scenarios, students will gain a nuanced perspective on how AI fits into professional practice.
Professor Andy King
“This course is about preparing students for the jobs they’ll step into. AI is already
part of the professional toolkit, and we want graduates to understand both its potential
and its boundaries."
Looking Ahead
The anticipated outcome is students who leave the university with practical skills
and a deeper understanding of AI’s role in communication, ready to adapt and lead
in a rapidly changing industry.
Adding to the excitement, King is also writing a book on prompt engineering as a communication
skill, with early chapter drafts serving as course material before the manuscript
heads to the publisher in Summer 2026. This integration of cutting-edge scholarship
ensures students are learning from the forefront of the discipline.
The Bottom Line
COMM 3580 isn’t just a class. It’s a launchpad for future communicators to navigate the AI-driven world with confidence and creativity.
COMM 3580 isn’t just a class. It’s a launchpad for future communicators to navigate the AI-driven world with confidence and creativity.
For more information, contact Professor King: andy.king@utah.edu