This course will provide training and practice in effective oral communication through participation in public speaking, group discussion, and oral reading. The course will emphasize research, organization, language usage, efficient listening, and constructive evaluation.

This course will introduce 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 explore the various contexts of communication such as interpersonal, intercultural, gender, and group communication.

This course provides training and practice in the theory and principles of effective group discussion techniques. Emphasis will be on the examination of group behavioral theory and the testing of that theory with practical applications. This course will address the theory, application, and evaluation of group communication processes, including problem solving, conflict management, decision making, and leadership.

This course introduces the principles and techniques of oral interpretation, analysis, and communication of literature. Students will apply the use of voice and body to convey meanings and nuances in literary works in all genres.

This course will examine and practice critical thinking—both inductive and deductive—necessary for structuring arguments, stating and supporting opinions, and clarifying ideas. The course will provide training in listening for analysis of the reasoning of other speakers and in identifying their evidence. Curricular and co-curricular debate will be the testing ground for the validity of reasoning.

This course provides an introduction to intercultural communication principles and processes. It leads to a greater appreciation of other cultures through increased awareness of, and sensitivity to, different cultural viewpoints. Topics include cultural characteristics such as language, verbal and nonverbal communication, perception, and technology across many different cultures. This course allows students to examine and improve their intercultural communication competence and also covers such topics such as ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation, and physical abilities. Students will gain an appreciation and comparison of communication among diverse groups within the larger context of American culture.

This course examines interpersonal communication theory and processes including verbal and nonverbal channels, the role of self-concept in communication, assertiveness, listening styles, and conflict management. It provides skills practice in handling personal and professional communication situations. Individual and small group activities will be used to demonstrate principles of interpersonal communication.

This course is a survey of mass communication and the interrelationships of media with society including history, structure, and trends in a digital age. Included are discussions of theories and effects, economics, technology, law and ethics, global media, media literacy, and social issues, including gender and cultural diversity. It offers students an overview of all phases of mass communication and communication technology in this information-conscious society, and the effects of media on themselves and others.

This course offers specialized study opportunities for students who wish to pursue projects not included in the regular curriculum. Students are accepted only by a written project proposal approved by the discipline prior to enrollment.