Communication
We offer a bachelor of arts, as well as a minor in communication. Coursework encourages intellectual development and emphasizes the importance of theory and research. You can mix and match courses that fit your interests and career goals from three areas:
Interpersonal studies
Examines the art and science of constructing messages we use to initiate, negotiate and maintain relationships
Rhetoric
The study of the language and arguments used in public discourse, and how they influence people and communities
Critical media studies
Relates to the formation of cultural identity through and resistance to power inherent in cultural industries and media narratives.
You’ll also learn how to be more skilled and ethical producers of messages, both as professionals and as citizens in a democratic society. Areas of study also include an examination of politics, social policy and ethics.
In addition to requiring successful completion of the liberal learning curriculum, the major in communication requires the following courses:
- COMM 201 Public Speaking
- COMM 211 Interpersonal Communication
- COMM 222 Media, Culture and Technology
- COMM 249 Introduction to Rhetoric
- COMM 452W Senior Research in Communication
Select one of the following:
- COMM 302 Critical Media Theory
- COMM 303 Rhetorical Theory
- COMM 304 Interpersonal Theory
Select one of the following:
- COMM 402 Media Research Methods
- COMM 403 Rhetorical Criticism
- COMM 404 Quantitative Research Methods in Communication
- COMM 405 Qualitative Research Methods in Communication
Select 18 additional credit hours in COMM courses. At least 15 credit hours must be at the 300- 400 level.
See the undergraduate catalog below for courses and descriptions.
The minor in communication requires successful completion of the following:
- COMM 201 Public Speaking
- COMM 211 Interpersonal Communication, OR
- COMM 222 Media, Culture and Technology, OR
- COMM 249 Introduction to Rhetoric
Select 12 additional credit hours of communication courses in consultation with a departmental adviser, nine of which must be at the 300-400 level.
See the undergraduate catalog below for courses and descriptions.