Communication Studies
COMM – Communication Studies course descriptions
Faculty
Lori Witt (chair), Shelley Bradfield, Mary Donato, Linda Laine, Stavros Papakonstantinidis
Statement of philosophy
The Communication Studies program provides students with broad-based exposure to the academic discipline that examines the process of creating messages, meaning, and relationships in a broad array of contexts. To cultivate critical thinking, clear writing, articulate speaking, and proficiency with technology, our students study communication in a variety of contexts, particularly those related to professional engagement, interpersonal, and media citizenship. Through a combination of theoretical grounding and applied experience, we prepare our majors for a range of careers, enable them to participate productively in a democratic culture, and instill in them a desire for lifelong learning. Coursework is supplemented by internships, and service learning experiences.
Communication Studies Major Requirements (39-42 credits)
- Complete all of the following:
COMM 160 Communication in Everyday Life (3)
COMM 180 Introduction to Communication Theory (3)
COMM 280 Communication Research and Writing (4)
- Complete at least 1 credit from the following:
COMM 383 Service Learning Module in Communication Studies
COMM 397 Internship in Communication Studies
Internships completed as part of off campus programs may count if pre-approved by the department.
- Complete 8 elective courses in communication studies, including a minimum of 3 upper-level courses at the 300-level or above. Students are encouraged to take a diverse range of upper-level courses representative of the communication discipline. An additional 3-4 credits of COMM 397 or 383 may be used in place of one elective course if pre-approved by the department.
Communication Studies Minor Requirements (19-22 credits)
Students interested in pursuing a minor in Communication Studies should meet with a faculty member in the department for advisement early in their program.
- Complete the following:
COMM 160 Communication in Everyday Life (3)
COMM 180 Introduction to Communication Theory (3)
- Complete 4 elective courses in communication studies, including a minimum of 2 courses at the 300 level or above.