Communication Studies Minor

This course examines the dynamics in communication within small groups. Students will learn effective critical thinking and problem solving skills for use when working in small groups. (3 units; Fall & Online)

Analysis and oral presentation of literature in a way that is vivid, compelling, and dramatic. This class will help the student to perfect skills in dramatic reading, reading of scripture, and finding and preparing literature for oral presentation. (3 units; Spring & Online)

This course is designed to develop advanced analysis of communication artifacts using theories of rhetoric and persuasion. The course discusses and makes use of rhetorical theorists from classical and contemporary traditions through the lens of compliance gaining. A focus will be on understanding human persuasion in everyday life, as well as in scholarly perspective. (3 units; Spring & Online)

Concentration upon a specific topic in the field of communication arts. Topic varies for different semesters. May be taken multiple times with change in topic. (3 units; Fall/Spring)

A study of the principles and models of argumentation and debate, the basic theories, strategies, and processes by which a student may present an effective argument, as well as their application to business and interpersonal communication as well as ministry. The course provides practical experience in forming arguments, defending a position, using evidence to build a case, refutation, and analysis of arguments. Special emphasis given to the principles of Parliamentary Debate. May be repeated for a total of eight (8) units. Only three (3) units may be applied to the major. (1-3 units; Fall)

This course is designed to introduce theories in the academic field of communication studies. The focus of the course will be on recognizing human communication theories in everyday life, and being able to critically examine situations in multiple cultural contexts based on those theories. Connections will be made between these theories and the prominent theories of related fields. (3 units; Fall & Online)

This course is designed to develop advanced analysis of communication artifacts using rhetorical theory. The course discusses and makes use of rhetorical theorists from classical and contemporary traditions to better understand cultural artifacts from various contexts. Application to various non-communication related fields will be explored. (3 units; Spring & Online)

Examination of the nature and process of communication in modern organizations, including theories, change strategies, internal personnel relations, and conflict management, as they relate to organizational cultures. (3 units; Fall, Spring, & Online)

This class examines gender from both a secular and biblical perspective through an examination of rhetoric, interpersonal communication, and media. Students will learn what gender is, how society and biology impact what gender is, and how gender impacts their own communication and the communication of others. (3 units; Fall)

Under faculty supervision, the student will be assigned to a position, utilizing principles of communication studies acquired and employed throughout their university experience. This internship provides an opportunity for investigating and participating in field experience with a practitioner of the trade, giving depth and breadth to their understanding of communication studies as a whole. Prerequisite: Permission of the Department Chair. (1-3 units; Fall/Spring)

Principles, history and professional practice of public relations and the writing and production of materials for special events, newsletters, and brochures. (3 units; Fall, Spring, & Online)