Student Learning Outcomes

By the end of senior year, students who major in Communication Studies will be able to:

• Communicate orally in a variety of contexts;
• Communicate in writing in a variety of contexts;
• Apply ethical standards endorsed by the field of communication;
• Identify key theorists and theories in the communication discipline;
• Analyze mediated messages critically;
• Monitor, evaluate, and modify their behavior in a variety of interpersonal contexts so that they function in a civil manner.

To meet these objectives, all majors must demonstrate proficiency in a number of competencies that form the core of the communication studies major.

Written Communication Competency: COMM 204 (Composition Theory and Practice)
Media Literacy Competency: COMM 210 (Media and Society)
Oral Communication Competency: COMM 230 (Public Speaking)
Theoretical Competency: COMM 325 (Art of Persuasion)
Capstone Experience: COMM 498 (Senior Seminar)
Experiential Learning Component: Either three credits of COMM 205/206 (Practicum) or COMM 480 (Internship)

Students then choose a concentration or may pursue an individualized degree in consultation with a COMM advisor.  Lastly, students choose two elective courses in communication or approved cognate areas.  During the fall of their senior year, students will assemble and present a portfolio of their work to be judged by the communication faculty as a whole.