Communication Studies
Communication Studies
The Communication Studies major analyzes processes of communication, commonly defined as the sharing of symbols over distances in space and time. Hence, communication studies encompasses a wide range of topics and contexts ranging from face-to-face conversation to public speeches to mass media outlets such as television broadcasting and film studies. Communication Studies, as a discipline, is also interested in how audiences interpret information from the political, cultural, economic, and social dimensions of speech and language.
There are many areas of specialization offered within the Communication Studies majors including Advertising, Public Relations, Journalism, Digital Media, Organizational Communication, Intercultural Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Rhetoric, and Media Studies. Studying communication will also enhance any career, but a few specific careers include business, public relations, human resources, law [after law school], advertising arts, teaching, social services, human services, and entertainment industries are all suited for graduates with a Communication Studies degree. Finally, students who are interested in the field of Communication Studies but do not wish to complete a Baccalaureate degree in the discipline, may pursue a terminal two-year course of study. Such study will prepare them to understand diverse communication messages and practice excellent communication skills in a variety of settings.
This course is designed to help advanced non-native speakers of English communicate well in academic, professional, and social settings through practice in basic principles of oral communication (with an emphasis on most effective use of voice and body). Students will engage in group discussion, public speeches, and oral reading.
This course provides training and practice in basic principles of effective oral communication through participation in public speaking, group discussion, and oral reading. It emphasizes being at ease in front of, and with, a group, and developing constructive attitudes, organized thinking, proper use of voice and body, and critical listening.
This course introduces students to the field of Communication Studies. Communication theories and foundational principles of communication will help students recognize and use this complex, dynamic, and often misunderstood process. Students will also explore the various contexts of communication such as interpersonal, intercultural, gender, and group communication.
This course introduces argumentation methodology, communication theory, rhetorical theory, critical listening, and critical thinking. It will include training in persuasive analysis, cross-examination, and delivery. Emphasis will be placed on research, using evidence, and detecting fallacies. Practice debates on class-selected topics will take place throughout the course of the semester.
This course focuses on the principles and methods of communication in a small group setting. Group interactions such as problem solving, leadership, and decision-making will be analyzed. Students will develop individual and group communication skills to prepare for the workplace and other group communication.
This course provides an introduction to the dynamics of communication in one-to-one relationships. Communication experiences, behaviors, and rules governing interpersonal contexts are explored. Specific relationships such as friendship, family, and co-workers are the highlights of the course. Topics include language, perception, non-verbal cues, and listening. This course will help students effectively communicate in interpersonal encounters.
This course provides an introduction to intercultural communication in domestic and global contexts. It leads to a greater appreciation of other cultures through increased awareness of, and sensitivity to, different cultural viewpoints. Topics include language, verbal and nonverbal communication, perception, and technology which allow students to examine communication within the larger context of American culture.
This course explores communication research processes in order to find, read, understand, create, and use communication research in daily work. Students will apply communication theory and methods to investigate pressing communication-related questions. Students will also investigate methods and analytical techniques including observation, interviews, focus groups, surveys, and content analysis.
