Communication Studies
Program Overview
Communication Studies majors are currently in a lot of demand, and provide a broad amount of expertise toward the ways humans communicate, both in verbal and nonverbal forms. Subjects range from public speaking to communicating in the new media, with potential jobs such as:
- Speech Writer
- Director of Communication
- Director of Community Relations
- Marketing Coordinator
- Media Production Manager
- Motivational Speaker
- Human Resources Manager
- College Professor
- Director of Debate
- Director of Individual Events
- Director of Forensics
Course Descriptions
Communication Studies (COMM) 76 English Speech as a Second Language
(3) CSU (Formerly Speech 113) Lecture, 3 hours.
This English speech improvement class stresses accent reduction, pronunciation, intonation, and phrasing. The course includes speaking assignments prepared by students. It is designed mainly for those who need to learn to speak Standard American English pronunciation more effectively in a variety of different environments.
Communication Studies 101 Public Speaking
(3) UC:CSU IGETC Area 1C (Formerly Speech 101) Lecture, 3 hours.
In this course, training is offered in effective speech composition and delivery. The course assists in building confidence in the delivery of original presentations, acquaints students with the sources of speech materials, and develops discriminating listening through speech analysis.
Communication Studies Oral Communication II
(3) UC:CSU IGETC Area 1C (Formerly Speech 102) Prerequisite: Communication Studies 101. Lecture, 3 hours.
This course provides an introduction to advanced phases of critical thinking, research, and public speaking. The course includes comprehension of speech structure, evaluation of arguments, researching and presenting evidence, language usage, and evaluation of fallacious reasoning. Adherence to ethics stressed in all communication settings.
Communication Studies 104
Argumentation and Debate (3) UC:CSU IGETC Area 1C (Formerly Speech 104) Lecture, 3 hours.
This course explores the critical thinking process, emphasizing the use of logic, reasoning, and evidence in the presentation and analysis of sound arguments.
Communication Studies 106 Forensics
(2) CSU RPT3 (Formerly Speech 106) Laboratory, 6 hours.
This laboratory course is for students preparing speeches, oral interpretation/acting performances, and debate/arguments to participate in competitive intercollegiate forensics (speech and debate) tournaments. Special emphasis is given to creating persuasive arguments through acting performances, competitive debates, or speeches. Participation may include any of the following: Observing, competing in, or judging competitive forensics tournaments.
Communication Studies 121 The Process of Interpersonal Communication
(3) CSU Lecture, 3 hours.
This course offers a study of the dynamics of everyday one-to-one communication focusing on the role that behavior, psychology, and environment play in friendship, family, workplace, and intimate relationships. Factors that influence communication such as non-verbal cues, language, perception, culture, power dynamics, listening, self concept, and health and personal well-being are explored. Problems in relational communication and conflict management as well as adaptation and success in interpersonal effectiveness are examined.
Communication Studies 130 Introduction to Oral Interpretation of Literature
(3) CSU Lecture, 3 hours.
This course provides an overview of theory, principles, and techniques used in the performance and interpretation of literature in solo, duo, and group formats. Texts include prose, poetry, drama, and other literary genres. Appreciation of various literary voices and performance styles is taught through textual analysis, oral reading, and evaluation. Practical training is given in critical reading, editing, and performance of poetry, prose, drama, essay, and experimental forms of performance text drawn from a diverse range of cultural viewpoints and voices.
Communication Studies 151 Small Group Communication
(3) CSU Prerequisite: English 28. Lecture, 3 hours.
This course provides an analysis of the purposes, principles, and types of group processes, including development of individual skills in leadership, problem solving, and collaborative learning that can be achieved by responsible group participation.
190 Communication and New Media
(3) CSU Lecture, 3 hours.
This course introduces computer-mediated communication. Students examine how the Internet, specifically popular culture, social media, websites, blogs, podcasts, YouTube, and social networks, have reshaped communication practices. The course offers an overview of relevant theories and critical issues while providing students with the opportunity to apply communication skills using new media.
185 Directed Study - Communication Studies (1) CSU
285 Directed Study - Communication Studies (2) CSU
385 Directed Study - Communication Studies (3) CSU
Conference 1 hour per week per unit.
During the first two weeks of the semester, the student will select an option as his/her semester project. Through regular meetings with the instructor, the student will develop the project to its final form. Research techniques and sources as well as the full requirements of each project will be discussed at these meetings. Students are expected to meet with the instructor at least weekly to discuss progress and to determine if resources available to the student are being fully utilized. Credit Limit: A maximum of 6 units in Directed Study may be taken for credit.
Note: UC Credit for variable topics courses in this discipline is given only after a review of the scope and content of the course by the enrolling UC campus. This usually occurs after transfer and may require recommendations from faculty. Information about internships may also be presented for review, but credit for internships rarely transfers to UC.