Communication Studies
The Communication Studies department offers courses designed to increase students' knowledge and understanding of the principles of communication in order to communicate competently, effective, appropriately, and ethically. Knowledge and skill in competent communication will benefit students in their personal, family, civic, cultural and workplace activities, as well as future educational classwork.
Career Opportunities
Communications provides a wide range of career opportunities which may include: public relation firms, media (reporting, advertising), public affairs (chambers of commerce, councils on tourism), business and industry (consulting firms, marketing companies), nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Communication Studies department is to prepare students for a multicultural, multimedia world where the ability to gather, organize, evaluate and present information in a wide variety of contexts, from face-to-face conversations to a variety of electronic tools, will be essential for individuals and organizations to achieve their goals.
Degree Options
Students may earn an Associate in Arts AA-DTA degree (90 credits) which is designed for students planning to transfer to a baccalaureate institution with junior standing. Students pursuing this degree should meet with an academic advisor at WWCC and an advisor at their intended baccalaureate institution to determine an appropriate educational plan. (See AA-DTA in Degrees section of catalog).
Program Outcomes
- Develop and employ verbal and nonverbal skills essential communicate oral presentations and effectively build relationships with others
- Utilize appropriate listening techniques.
- Formulate and demonstrate the process of designing a successful oral presentation from outline to delivery.
- Identify and describe the ethics of public speaking.
- Identify, define, and demonstrate effective interpersonal skills.
- Compare and contrast similarities and differences in the communication behaviors of different cultures.
Preparation For Success
Communication Studies classes will prepare students to be effective participants in a wide variety of settings and fields. Students wishing to major in communications at four-year institutions should work closely with advisors to take a well-rounded liberal arts program as well as meet specific requirements at transfer institutions.
Other Information
The Communication Studies department supports students' efforts to fulfill degree requirements by offering a required course in public speaking. Other courses appealing to multiple levels of interest, skill, and experience are under development. Course offerings provide the basis for transfer, occupations, and life-long learning.