Overview

The minor in Communication Studies empowers students to acquire advanced skills in many areas involving human interaction, intercultural communication, advocacy, argumentation, relationship building, leadership, presentation (oral and written), critical thinking, research and writing. Students become familiar with the rich tradition of communication theory and research, investigate emerging knowledge about communication, and contribute to the growth of new understanding by developing and applying their research capabilities. Students also are challenged to employ their communication understanding and skills in meaningful ways through experiential learning, and professional and community involvement. Communication Studies blends a broad-based theoretical understanding of communication principles with specific and concrete applications to particular contexts.

Students are prepared for a variety of career options in health communication, business and the professions, politics and public advocacy, education, training and media, as well as further graduate and professional study in communication, law and other areas.

Curriculum Requirements

The minor in Communication Studies requires 15 credit hours, at least six of which must be at the 300-level or above. The additional credit hours must be chosen with prior approval of a Communication Studies advisor. A grade of C or higher is required in all courses (a C- is not acceptable).

Students, in conjunction with an advisor, can construct a Communication Studies minor focusing on areas of specific interest. These sample areas of concentration listed below are notated on the transcript as a Communication Studies minor. Possible areas of concentration include the following:

Sample Concentration in Communication Studies

Offers a rich background in the field of human communication in a variety of contexts applicable to all personal, social and professional endeavors. Complements any major or academic/career objective.

COS 120Exploring Human Communication3
Select four of the following:12
COS 112
Interpersonal Communication
COS 211
Public Speaking
COS 220
Communication Theory
COS 316
Small Group Communication
COS 318
Nonverbal Communication
COS 333
Business Communication
COS 336
Political Communication
COS 343
Introduction to Intercultural Communication
COS 418
Organizational Communication
Total Credit Hours15

Sample Concentration in Organizational Communication

Offers practical application of theoretical concepts in organizational environments to develop skills in effective leadership, management, teamwork, conflict resolution, and professional presentations. Appropriate for students interested in working for a wide-range of businesses including profit and non-profit corporations, and government agencies.

Select five of the following:15
COS 120
Exploring Human Communication
COS 220
Communication Theory
COS 316
Small Group Communication
COS 318
Nonverbal Communication
COS 330
Conflict Management
COS 333
Business Communication
COS 343
Introduction to Intercultural Communication
COS 418
Organizational Communication
COS 560
The Executive Communicator
Total Credit Hours15

Sample Concentration in Public Advocacy

Offers theory and application of oral communication and argumentation as it is used to influence others to promote social change and accomplish persuasive advocacy. Appropriate for students interested in a wide range of objectives, including legal studies and pre-law, sales, advertising, marketing, entrepreneurship, and civic and political engagement.

COS 211Public Speaking3
Select one of the following:3
COS 304
Intercollegiate Debate Theory and Practice (complete three credits)
COS 377
Argumentation and Critical Thinking
Select three of the following:9
COS 311
Advanced Oral Advocacy
COS 314
The Power of Dialogue
COS 318
Nonverbal Communication
COS 336
Political Communication
COS 352
Critical Research in Communication
COS 472
Persuasion
COS 473
Words that Shaped the World
COS 474
Presidential Debates
Total Credit Hours15