(Bachelor of Arts Degree)
While the study of human communication has been a central component in the curriculum of Western education since classical Greece, in the “age of information,” it is becoming increasingly important. In virtually all situations we must make choices about what and how to communicate. The quality of our life and work is significantly affected by how well we choose our strategies, how well we express our ideas, and how well we understand other people and their ideas.
Communication study has two components. One focuses on developing an understanding of how our identities, roles, relationships, and organizations are shaped by the style, content, and media of communication. The other focuses on the opportunity to enhance and refine communication and performance competencies. The knowledge and skills acquired are essential to both personal growth and professional development.
In order to tailor the course of study to their vocational interests, students should consult with their adviser regularly and plan to complete an internship. Students are strongly encouraged to select free electives which will broaden and deepen their background in related fields.
Students considering public school teaching as a career should refer to the programs in education, listed alphabetically in this section of the catalog.
Total credit hours required for degree: 120
Learning Objectives
Students will demonstrate:
- that they understand the role that various methods of communication play in all aspects of human interaction.
- the skills necessary to prepare and present effective oral presentations.
- the ability to understand and utilize effective communication strategies. In specific contexts, including (but not limited to) persuasion, conflict resolution, interpersonal relationships, small group interaction, and organizational roles.
- the ability to make effective and informed choices about how to communicate in specific contexts, including (but not limited to) persuasion, conflict resolution, interpersonal relationships, small group interaction, leadership roles.
- that they understand important theories and trends in the field of communication, and will be able to contextualize, analyze, and criticize aspects of contemporary culture through the application of these theories.
- that they are knowledgeable about career fields that are appropriate for someone with a major or minor in Communication Arts, and will develop strategies for incorporating their knowledge and interests into job searches.