Communication Studies

Mitch Poth
509.793.2118
communicationstudies@bigbend.edu

Communication studies courses may be taken as part of the Associate in Arts and Science DTA degree. These courses may be used toward the Basic Requirement, the Humanities Breadth requirement, or for Specified or General Elective credit. Students seeking Associate in Arts and Science DTA degree should refer to the catalog section “Degrees & Certificates” for a detailed description of the degree, its program outcomes, and courses that will satisfy degree requirements.

Communication Studies is the study of the creation, delivery, and reception of verbal and nonverbal communication. Students will learn to prepare and give effective and ethically grounded speeches, improve interpersonal communication, develop critical thinking and research skills, and analyze the production and content of media messages. Communication Studies is committed to a hands-on approach that brings together theory and real-world communication practices. The department approaches communication as a social and cultural process that is both about upholding individual identity as well as collective action as a way to find solutions for pressing social and political problems. Some of the possible career possibilities in Communication Studies are: politics, education, journalism, activism, research, mediation, podcasting, event planning, social media management, and broadcasting.

Since programs differ at each college, students should consult program outlines published by the college or university to which they intend to transfer. The following recommended courses prepare students for most baccalaureate institutions. Students should prepare their quarterly schedules with the assistance of an advisor knowledgeable in this transfer area.

Recommended Pre-Major Courses Credits

CMST& 102 Introduction to Mass Communications CWU, EWU

CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communications CWU, EWU

CMST& 220 Public Speaking CWU, EWU*

CMST 229 Advanced Public Speaking CWU, EWU*

CMST 230 Small Group Discussion CWU, EWU

* CMST& 220 AND CMST 229 transfer as same EWU course.

Courses

CMST& 101: Introduction to Communication

Credits 5

This course is an overview of the field of Communication Studies and introduces students to the ways public and private human communication shape our world. Combining a social scientific and humanistic perspective, students will use communication theories to explore a range of topics to explain, critique, and problem-solve interpersonal, group, cultural, and organizational issues related to communication.

CMST& 102: Introduction to Mass Communications

Credits 5
Intro to Mass Communication is a survey course that examines the history, institutions, and social impact of mass media communication and emerging technologies. Study focuses on critical analysis of the channels of mass media, as well as the media messages produced in advertising, news, and pop culture. The course includes discussion of major theories in the field, including theories on media literacy, agenda setting, media effects, and the role of representation in understanding gender and cultural diversity. Special attention is given to the impact of mass media on individuals and society.

CMST& 210: Interpersonal Communication

Credits 5
This course is a study of effective interpersonal skill development with the goal of improving personal and work relationships. Emphasis is placed on the personal, situational, and cultural influences of interaction. Topics include human perception, interpersonal dynamics, listening, conflict management, communication as shared meaning through the use of verbal and nonverbal symbol systems. The course is intended for students who communicate in one-on-one situations, including social work, healthcare, public service and business majors. This course is intended for students who are interested in improving interpersonal skills in work, volunteer, and personal environments.

CMST& 220: Public Speaking

Credits 5
Provides an introduction to the fundamental process of speaking to the public. It is designed to help students develop skills in communication and to acquire an understanding of oral communication as a vital human relations factor in society.

CMST& 230: Small Group Communication

Credits 5
This course is a study of the concepts and theories related to group formation and development, and basic group communication dynamics. Students lead and participate in various forms of group discussion and activities. This course is designed for Communication Studies majors, business majors, nursing majors, and community activists, as well as for anyone interested in working effectively in small group settings. (Formerly: SPH 210/CMST 234)

CMST 100: Human Communications

Credits 4
This course will provide students with applied communication skills. Students will learn practical application of small group presentations, conflict resolution and increased confidence in personal communication skills. Exemplifying self-concept, perception, verbal and non-verbal attributes and attitudes experienced between family, friends, and employment relationships.

CMST 225: Intercultural Communication

Credits 5
Intro to Intercultural Communication is a survey course that focuses on the importance of culture in our everyday lives, and the ways in which culture affects communication skills and processes. In an era of rapid globalization being able to communicate across cultures is imperative to our ability to function in a diverse workplace, city, and world. This class will introduce the student to foundational and contemporary concepts, practices, and processes of intercultural communication, methods of critical intercultural analysis, and the scholarly field of Intercultural Communication. Through the study of intercultural communication theories, and reflection on contexts (social, cultural and historical) in which we live and communicate, students will develop sensitivity to the role culture plays in communication.

CMST 229: Advanced Public Speaking

Credits 5
This course is a mastery course that moves beyond the fundamentals of public speaking. In this class public speaking is understood as a primary means of motivating change, of developing critical thinking and self-reflection, and of creating connections across difference. The student will be introduced to rhetorical theory and will have the opportunity to apply their creativity to a range of assignments from storytelling to crisis speech making..

CMST 330: Organizational Communication

Credits 5
This course explores organizational communication principles. Students will learn techniques for improving organizational communication through exploration of various communication topics including public relations and marketing, leadership functions, dispute resolution, coaching and mentoring, motivation and influence, perception, goal setting, emotional intelligence, growth mindset, diversity, and global perspectives. It is vital to recognize the ways in which communication choices shape organizational structures, goals, cultures, policies, problems, membership, ethics, and employee behavior. In this course, you will learn effective communication needed in professional and volunteer groups. You will engage in interactive exercises and practical application of theory, practicing skills you will need to improve organizations, and the lives of its members and stakeholders.