Comm Studies

Communication Studies

Our most traditional and liberal arts oriented program is Communication Studies, formerly known as Speech Communication. We changed this program's name recently to more accurately reflect the types of activities and careers related to Communication.

Communication Studies students discover the many strategies of how to effectively communicate with different groups of people in varying situations. Coverage includes person-to-person communication such as in counseling, peer advising, personnel management and other business and corporate positions.

Students may also study persuasion and message construction strategies that are helpful in sales and management areas. Students desiring careers in training, development, fund-raising and similar fields may wish to major in Communication Studies.

Major courses include: Interpersonal communication, small group communication, organizational communication, persuasion, research methodologies and other courses dealing with message design.

Program Highlights

  • ISU is home to the largest communication education program in the world!
  • Graduates from the program have almost a 100% placement rate.
  • Students teach speech communication, English and often assist with speech, debate and drama at their schools.

News & Events

  • Communication Week was a great success! Thanks to Denise Thomas, Tom Lamonica, and the whole CW team!
  • Award Winners for Communication Studies:
    • Outstanding Communication Studies Alumni: Molly Arnold, Director of Admissions, Illinois State University
    • Outstanding Communication Studies Senior: Kathren Sammis
    • Baldwin Leadership Award: CS student Amelia Gould
  • Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program: RSP is piloting an Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program this summer and the following academic year. The fellowships, valued at $3,500 each, will allow students to devote the time required to conduct their research projects while providing sufficient income to meet their continuing educational expenses. Contact John Baldwin for details. Deadline is April 20, 2009.
  • COM 110 Award! Our COM 110 (Communication and Critical Inquiry) program received the Inaugural Program of Excellence Award from the Basic Course Division of the National Communication Association.

 

Student Activities and Honors

Student Organizations

Student Honors

  • Amelia Gould, Communication Studies student (double-major with Biology) is this year's College of Arts & Sciences Commencement Speaker
  • Comm Studies Student Karen Singer Nominated for State Farm Award.
  • ISU Debaters Robert Kosic & Alex Berger win first place victories at International Tournament.
  • ISU Speech Team takes a close 2nd at Illinois Intercollegiate Forensics Association State Championship Tournament