Communication is used when giving and receiving information in its various forms (such as nonverbal, verbal, and written communication), which allows an individual to pass information to other people and to understand what is said. People use communication skills everyday by exchanging information and knowledge, and develop relationships with others. The way a person communicates develops not only their personality but how others view them as well. Communication is critical in elevating a person’s professional, intimate, or friendly relationships amongst the people they choose to surround themselves with. Overall, communication is what defines human relationships and interactions.

It is not limited to the training of great orators as the leaders of society, but includes training for and analysis of communication within small and large groups, between two individuals and even communication within the individual. In all forms of speech communication, people talk together in order to influence the behavior of other human beings.

Topics in this field include: Interpersonal, Intrapersonal, Intercultural, Health Communication, Political Communication and Debates, Gender Communication, Speech, Group Communication, and techniques for overcoming speech anxiety.

Perks of Being a Communication Studies Student

Communication Studies Award

The Communication Studies Department offers several ways to celebrate our students.

The first and quickest way to celebrate is to work towards obtaining the Communication Studies Award. This is a 9-unit award where students enroll in 3-4 Communication Studies Courses and maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 in those courses. This award allows students to explore various forms of communication, whether through public speaking, interpersonal communication, or other communication courses.

Applications are reviewed every spring semester and awards are granted at the end of each Spring semester. Click here to apply!

Communication Studies Certificate

Already completed and earned your Communication Studies Award? Great! You're a few steps closer to completing the Communication Studies Certificate of Achievement. Unlike the Communication Studies Award, the Certificate of Achievement requires 16 units of Communication Studies courses and is officially noted on your transcript so future employers and educational institutions see your achievement in Communication Studies.

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), effective communication skills rank among the top five skills employers look for on resumes.

Applications for this certificate are completed through Academic Counseling prior to graduation. Be sure to reach out to your Communication Studies Instructor for more information. You can also learn more about this certificate through the catalog.

Communication Studies Scholarship

The Communication Studies Department also offers students the opportunity to earn a scholarship. This scholarship is limited to Communication Studies Majors.

Applications are reviewed every year and scholarship recipients are notified of their award during the spring semester. Ask your Communication Studies instructor to learn about this amazing opportunity!

To get more details, currently enrolled Communication Studies students and those seeking a Communication Award, Certificate, or Scholarship are invited to self-enroll in our shared canvas page.