Program Description
The Communication program offers a major in communication, as well as minors in liberal arts communication and secondary education speech communication. The goal of the program is to develop graduates who possess communication competence, in both theory and practice.
The communication major prepares students for careers in journalism, public relations, advertising, teaching, management, human resources and for advanced education in graduate school. The curriculum follows a sequence for student development. As freshmen, students learn the principles of, and have experiences in, various contexts of communication. They also become familiar with the methods of communication research (100-level courses). As sophomores, students become acquainted with specialized subject matters and hone skills in research, writing and critical thinking (200-level courses). As juniors, students engage in deeper exploration of theoretical and ethical perspectives (300-level courses). As seniors, students participate in advanced research and work-oriented experiences.
Learning Outcomes for Communication
Upon successful completion of major requirements, students are expected to demonstrate:
- An understanding of the theories and principles of human communication that will facilitate their professional and personal effectiveness.
- Skill in responsible and sensitive communication with diverse others.
- The ability to conduct systematic inquiry skillfully.
- The ability to develop and convey oral and written messages effectively.