Major in Communication Arts 


School of Arts and Sciences 


(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.

Total credit hours required for degree: 120

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS


(See also General Education Core)

Course Credit Hours Year Taken
Core 34-55  
Major Course Requirements
Communication Arts 101 Interpersonal Communication 3  
Communication Arts 103 Introduction to Public Speaking 3  
Any 3-credit hour Theatre course 3  
Communication Arts 181 Introduction to Human Communication 3  
Communication Arts 261 Broadcasting in the Public Interest  
or
Journalism 181 Introduction to Mass Communication 3  
Communication Arts 341 Organizational Communication 3  
Communication Arts 403 Argumentation 3  
Communication Arts 411 Communication Theory  
or
Communication Arts 461 Rhetorical Theory and Criticism 3  
Communication Arts 481 Senior Seminar 3  
  27  
Major Electives
The student must select five additional courses not listed above in the areas of Communication Arts, Theatre, or Film Studies. At least three of these electives must be at the 300-level or above. 15  
  42  
Electives
The student must complete sufficient elective courses to earn at least the minimum credit hours required for this degree, and at least 90 credit hours of the 120 required must be in the liberal arts and sciences.