Plan of Study – Speech Communication

Note: A Semester Hour (s.h.) is a unit of academic credit representing an hour of class (such as lecture class) or three hours of laboratory work each week for an academic semester. Most courses are two, three or four semester hours.

Speech Communication: Minor

Minor Courses (Minimum number of 24 semester hours required.)

COM 1050 Communication Concepts and Contexts (3 s.h.)

Principles of communication applied to interpersonal, group, and public speaking situations. Emphasis on verbal and nonverbal communication, listening, persuasive techniques, delivery, and responding to messages. Opportunity to practice speaking skills.

COM 2350 Public Speaking: Theory and Practice (3 s.h.)

Focus on the building of public speaking skills needed in education, personal life, and careers in order to effectively communicate thoughts and feelings. Students evaluate the communication efforts of others and increase their critical listening skills.

COM 2550 Oral Interpretation of Literature (COM*/ENG) (3 s.h.)

The skills of expressive reading to elicit listener response to the text, using vocal and physical expression. Prose, poetry, and drama analyzed for meaning and mood.

COM 3100 Small Group Communication (3 s.h.)

An analysis of communication interaction in small groups. Addresses group formation, decision making strategies, roles and norms, leadership, and conflict management. Students participate in classroom groups and evaluate group performance.

JRN 4010 Mass Communication (BCA/COM/JRN*) (3 s.h.)

Theory of behavior in communications in general and the mass media in particular. The design and evaluation of public opinion studies and research topics in communications with emphasis on the effects that the various media have had on consumers.

Minor electives (Minimum of 9 semester hours required. Choose from: COM 2330, COM 2140, COM(BCA/JRN) 2610, COM(ENG) 3030, COM 3410 and COM 3420.)

BCA 2610 Television Production I (BCA*/COM/JRN) (3 s.h.)

Basic studio production techniques, including set-up and operation of cameras, microphones, recorders, lights, and control room equipment. Emphasis on hands-on team approach. Recommended for BCA majors during their first year.

COM 2140 Argumentation and Persuasion (3 s.h.)

The study of argument as a process of inquiry and advocacy and the communicative means to change attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, as well as motivate people to action. Practical experience in: evidence, analysis and reasoning; organization and case-building; refutation and cross-examination; and audience analysis. Students apply theory to a variety of topics and contexts.

COM 2330 Interviewing Techniques (3 s.h.)

Addresses theoretical principles and communication skills essential for professional careers. Includes informative, persuasive, journalistic, health, and employment interviews.

COM 3410 Acting Techniques I (4 s.h.)

Basic forms and methods of expression, including voice projection and diction; development of individual talents in pantomime, improvisation, acting, and oral interpretation. Lecture and laboratory.

COM 3420 Acting Techniques II (4 s.h.)

Basic forms and methods of expression, including voice projection and diction; development of individual talents in pantomime, improvisation, acting, and oral interpretation. Lecture and laboratory.

ENG 3030 Children's Literature and Drama (COM/ENG*) (3 s.h.)

A study of the world of children’s literature and the history of children’s literature with a focus on classic and contemporary works. Materials selected with reference to the interest, needs, and abilities of children.