Communication and Speech Studies Major
The Communication and Speech Studies (CSS) major is an exciting, versatile program that empowers students with the skills needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced, communication-driven world. As a CSS major, you'll develop critical competencies such as effective public speaking, persuasive communication strategies, conflict resolution skills, and intercultural understanding. You'll also sharpen your ability to analyze and interpret messages, craft compelling stories, and use effective communication tactics through social media platforms.
This program emphasizes both the theoretical foundations of communication and the practical skills necessary for real-world success. Whether you're preparing for a career in media, health, corporate communication, law, or project management, you’ll graduate with the confidence and expertise to make an impact in nearly any field. You'll learn to communicate effectively across different cultures, lead discussions in professional settings, and use communication as a tool for social change and innovation.
By the end of the program, you'll not only be equipped with advanced speaking and writing skills but also with the critical thinking and leadership abilities that employers in various industries are looking for in an innovator. If you're someone who wants to shape the conversation, influence decisions, and drive meaningful change, the CSS major will give you the foundation to do so. Step into a world of opportunity and make your voice heard.
Degree Requirements
Core/Introductory
Students choose 8 credits (2 courses) from the following list of courses:
| SPE 101 | Introduction to Communication and Speech Studies | 4 |
| SPE 200 | Oral Communication | 4 |
| SPE 208 | Speech for Business and the Professions | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 8 |
Intermediate
Students choose 12 credits (3 courses) from the following list of courses:
| SPE 212 | Global Speech, Human Rights and Social Justice | 4 |
| SPE 216 | Introduction to Health Communication | 4 |
| SPE 300 | Storytelling: Voice, Script and Movement | 4 |
| SPE 308 | Group Communication | 4 |
| SPE 310 | Interpersonal Communication | 4 |
| COM 301 | Introduction to Organizational Communication | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 12 |
Advanced
Students choose 4 credits (1 course) from the following list of courses:
Electives
Students choose 8 credits (2 courses) from the following list of courses:
| SPE 101 | Introduction to Communication and Speech Studies | 4 |
| SPE 200 | Oral Communication | 4 |
| SPE 208 | Speech for Business and the Professions | 4 |
| SPE 216 | Introduction to Health Communication | 4 |
| SPE 220 | Political Rhetoric | 4 |
| SPE 300 | Storytelling: Voice, Script and Movement | 4 |
| SPE 308 | Group Communication | 4 |
| SPE 315 | Freedom of Speech and First Amendment Studies | 4 |
| SPE 330 | Special Topics in Speech | 2-4 |
| SPE 401 | Persuasion | 4 |
| SPE 402 | Argumentation and Debate | 4 |
| SPE 403 | Conflict Resolution | 4 |
| SPE 192 | Independent Study | 1-4 |
| SPE 292 | Independent Study | 1-4 |
| SPE 392 | Independent Study | 1-4 |
| SPE 492 | Independent Study | 1-4 |
| COM 224 | Media and Society | 4 |
| COM 244 | Podcast Production | 4 |
| COM 327 | Communication and Law | 4 |
| COM 354 | Internship in Communication | 1-4 |
| COM 374 | Communication Research Methods | 4 |
| COM 385 | Crisis Communication | 4 |
| COM 401 | Intercultural Communication | 4 |
| COM 436 | Communication and Media Ethics | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 8 |
If a course is used to fulfill a core requirement, that course may not be used to fulfill an elective requirement.
Culminating Experience
Students complete the following culminating experience course:
| SPE 475 | Communication and Speech Studies Capstone | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 4 |
Total Credit Hours: 36