Program Description
Students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Speech Communication complete a liberal arts program that provides a foundation to acquire a general knowledge of theoretical concepts and their practical application in the fields of public address, rhetoric, organizational communication and communication management. In addition, students master and demonstrate proficiency in the usage of oral and written communication and have the ability to exercise interpersonal communication constructs in various contexts and situations.
Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates in the in Speech Communication Program will be able to:
- Conduct audience analysis, and listen to and evaluate speeches of various practitioners, for efficacy.
- Apply communication technology to speech research, writing, and presentational delivery.
- Write and deliver effective informative, persuasive and other types of speeches tailored to target audiences.
- Use research, writing, and oral presentation skills to respond appropriately in various communication contexts.
- Identify and apply communication theories.
Program Opportunities
The Department of Theatre and Communication Studies hosts several organizations for majors and non- majors. They include:
Alpha Psi Omega - a national drama honor society for students who have been involved actively in theatrical productions while maintaining scholastic integrity.
Clark Atlanta University Players (CAU Players) - composed of majors and non-majors with a strong desire to perform and produce challenging work. The mission of the CAU Players is to excite, educate, and entertain. The CAU Players present a variety of productions yearly.
The Forensics Society - composed of majors and non-majors interested in public speaking, oral interpretation, and debate. The society participates in competitions locally and nationally.
Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society, Theta Tau Chapter - goals are to recognize, foster, and reward outstanding scholastic achievement; stimulate interest in the field of communication; promote and encourage professional development among communication majors; provide an opportunity to discuss and exchange ideas about the field; establish and maintain close relationships and understanding between faculty and students; and explore options for further graduate studies. To become a member of Lambda Pi Eta, students must have completed at least 60 semester hours; have completed at least 12 semester hours of communication study and have a GPA of at least 3.25; have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0; and be in the upper 35% of their graduating class.
National Black Media Coalition (NBMC) - recognizes and assists all the many media industries involving people of color, both creatively and technologically, as well as ownership.
National Communication Association Student Club (NCASC) - an organization for division of communication arts majors interested in the field of communication. Students have declared a major in communication to join the organization officially.
