Michael Fairley, Chair
The Austin College Department of Communication Studies focuses on the formal study of the art and science of human communication. The exchange of meaning and information between individuals and groups occurs in numerous contexts and for widely varying purposes. Grounded in the long-established disciplines of rhetoric and theatre and expanding to include electronic media, the Department of Communication Studies continues its commitment to a multidisciplinary approach to the study of human communication, to include global influences of electronic media. This concept is manifested in a broad range of courses and performance experiences in media studies, speech and social interaction, and theatre.
The Communication Studies Department is a multidisciplinary program offering formal study of the art and science of human communication, focusing on knowledge and practice in the fields of speech and social interaction, theatre, and media studies.
A major in communication studies consists of a minimum of eight course credit units. The student may select an area of emphasis or a balanced set of courses in speech, theatre, and media studies. If an emphasis is declared, at least six courses must be taken in the area of emphasis and at least two courses outside the focus area. For a balanced major, students may take no more than five courses in a single focus area and must take at least one course from each focus area. Entry into the major is through Speech 112 or 222, Theatre 142 or 221, or Media 121, contingent upon the student’s particular interest. At least three courses must be taken at the 300 level or above, regardless of the approach selected. Students seeking to do directed or independent study courses must complete the required prerequisites in the area in which they wish to do advanced work. Students should consult with faculty in the department concerning courses in other disciplines that would contribute importantly to their work in communication studies.
Majors are encouraged to participate in departmental activities. Students taking courses in the department may be required to participate in certain departmental activities as part of a specific course.
A minor in communication studies consists of a minimum of five course credit units, four of which are from a single area within the department (speech, theatre, or media studies) and one from a different area of emphasis, with at least two classes numbered 300 or above. No more than one credit unit of practicum courses may be counted toward requirements for the minor. (Possible combinations, for example, are a minor emphasizing speech that might include Speech 112, 222, 352, 450, and Media 121; or a minor in theatre that might include Theatre 142, 143, 221, 352, 450 and Speech 221; or a minor in media studies with Media 121, 231, 450, 461, and Speech 221. Students seeking a minor should confer with an appropriate departmental faculty member to consider specific courses.
Note: We encourage students to study abroad. However, some courses are or may be required to be completed on the Austin College campus for the Major or Minor. Please consult with the Department Chair when you plan your study abroad.
