Communication

Learning Outcomes

The Communication Department Mission is to develop core competencies in oral, written and visual communication for our interdisciplinary program. All students should have a basic competency in each of these areas in order to enhance their effectiveness in their chosen communication area of emphasis. Students should have a conceptual grasp of the major communication theories and the impact of technology on the communication process.

Basic Competencies

• Development of visual communication skills and concepts at a level appropriate to the student's area of emphasis.
• Development of verbal (oral) communication skills and concepts at a level appropriate to the student's area of emphasis.
• Development of written communication skills and concepts at a level appropriate to the student's area of emphasis.

Critical Thinking

• Development of information management skills, including searching, evaluating, organizing, and presenting information appropriate to the student's area of emphasis.
• Ability to design, select appropriate methodologies, conduct, and report communication research according to standard protocols.
• Understanding of legal and ethical aspects of professional communication.
• Ability to plan, design, and evaluate communication strategies appropriate to message, communications medium/technology, and context.

Professional Applications

• Ability to collaborate with colleagues and clients in a team-based environment to analyze problems and design and evaluate solutions.
• Ability to assemble, organize, and present a portfolio of professional communication materials appropriate to the student's area of emphasis.
• Ability to effectively synthesize images, text, and oral communication in order to achieve a professional objective.