Students learn about conversation and communication patterns in a speech communication class.
How do we say what we mean -- or what we don't mean? What's the best way to convey information in the courtroom or the boardroom, on the school stage or the campaign trail? The study of speech communication focuses on how -- and to what effect -- we communicate through spoken language and nonverbal cues. In our speech communication program you'll develop critical-thinking skills as you refine your ideas through debate and discussion. An active forensic program and a readers' theater provide further training -- and fun.
Our course of study is designed to balance the theories and the practices of communication in a variety of contexts: You'll analyze communication behaviors, observe leadership patterns, and probe subtexts in the written word. And you'll take your classroom learning out into the community. You may organize and perform in a stand-up comedy evening or develop a media program for a nonprofit agency. Perhaps you'll write copy for CNN Interactive or assist in the evaluation of grant proposals for the United Way.
Our program gives you a broad-based foundation for careers in such fields as public relations, human resources, communications, or government.