Communication Studies Minor
The minor in Communication Studies offers students an exploration of the theories, practices and dynamics of human communication, providing valuable skills applicable across a wide range of personal, professional and social contexts. Through a combination of foundational courses and elective options, students gain insight into the complexities of verbal and nonverbal communication, interpersonal relationships and persuasive strategies.
Curriculum
Students begin by selecting one foundational course from either COM 101, Human Communication, or COM 120, Foundations of Health Communication, each offering a unique perspective on fundamental communication principles and applications.
Building upon this introductory coursework, students enroll in COM 204, Communication Theory & Research, which delves into the theoretical frameworks and research methods used to analyze and understand communication processes. Prerequisites for this course include completion of COM 101 or COM 120, ensuring students have a solid grounding in foundational communication concepts.
To complete the minor, students take communication electives at the 200 level and above, totaling nine credit hours. These elective courses offer opportunities for deeper exploration of specialized areas within communication studies, such as intercultural communication, organizational communication, persuasion, media studies or rhetoric.
With a total of 15 credit hours required for completion, the minor in Communication Studies equips students with essential communication skills, critical thinking abilities and a nuanced understanding of human interaction, preparing them for success in diverse personal, academic and professional endeavors.
For more information about the curriculum, view the Academic Catalog.
Conflict Resolution Minor
The minor in Conflict Resolution provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and resolve conflicts in various personal, professional, and societal contexts. Through a combination of foundational courses in criminal justice and communication, along with elective options from diverse disciplines, students gain a comprehensive understanding of conflict dynamics and learn practical strategies for mediation, negotiation, and restorative justice.
Curriculum
Students begin with introductory courses in criminal justice, including Introduction to Criminal Justice (CJ 130) and Corrections in the U.S. (CJ 227), providing a foundational understanding of the criminal justice system and its role in conflict resolution.
Next, students explore restorative justice principles and practices in CJ 465, Restorative Justice, learning alternative approaches to addressing harm and fostering healing in communities.
Students then engage in the study of conflict resolution strategies through COM 343, Conflict, Mediation, & Negotiation, which emphasizes effective communication and negotiation techniques essential for resolving disputes.
To further enhance their communication skills, students choose one course from a selection covering topics such as human communication, intercultural communication, interpersonal communication, or argumentation and advocacy.
Finally, students have the option to participate in a field experience or internship (COM 436 or CJ 403), allowing for practical application of conflict resolution concepts in real-world settings.
For more information about the curriculum, view the Academic Catalog.
Public Relations Minor
The minor in Public Relations provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, strategies and practices essential for effective communication in organizational settings, media relations, and crisis management. Through a combination of core courses and elective options, students develop practical skills in public relations writing, strategic communication planning and media relations, preparing them for careers in public relations, corporate communication, marketing and related fields.
Curriculum
Students begin with COM 205, Introduction to Public Relations, which introduces foundational concepts and theories in public relations practice, providing students with an overview of the role and functions of public relations in modern organizations. Prerequisites for this course include completion of COM 101 or COM 120, ensuring students have a solid understanding of basic communication principles.
Building upon this foundational coursework, students take COM 211, Public Relations Writing, which focuses on developing effective written communication skills essential for public relations professionals, including press releases, media pitches and strategic messaging.
Students then choose one course from a selection of communication electives, such as COM 101 (Human Communication) or COM 120 (Foundations of Health Communication), to further enhance their understanding of communication theory and practice.
Additionally, students select one elective course from a diverse range of options, including strategic social media, public speaking, intercultural communication, sport public relations or risk and crisis communication, allowing for specialization in areas relevant to their interests and career goals.
With a total of 15 credit hours required for completion, the minor in Public Relations equips students with valuable skills in strategic communication, media relations and crisis management, preparing them for success in a variety of professional roles within the field of public relations and related industries.
For more information about the curriculum, view the Academic Catalog.
Sport Communication Minor
The minor in Sport Communication offers students an in-depth exploration of the dynamic intersection between sports, media and communication, providing valuable insights into the role of communication in the sports industry. Through a combination of core courses and elective options, students gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for careers in sports journalism, sports marketing, public relations and more.
Curriculum
Students begin by selecting one foundational course from either COM 101 (Human Communication) or COM 120 (Foundations of Health Communication), offering a broad introduction to communication theory and practice.
Building upon this foundational coursework, students take COM 163, Foundations of Sport Communication, which examines the unique communication dynamics within the sports industry, including media coverage, fan engagement, and athlete communication.
Students then delve into the cultural and sociological aspects of sport communication with COM 244, Sport, Communication, and Culture, exploring how sports intersect with broader societal issues and values.
COM 415, Communication in Sport Organizations, provides students with an understanding of communication practices within sport organizations, including media relations, marketing communication and crisis communication strategies.
To further tailor their minor, students choose one elective course from a selection of communication options, such as Introduction to Public Relations or Strategic Social Media, and one elective course from a selection of organizational communication or risk and crisis communication options.
With a total of 18 credit hours required for completion, the minor in Sport Communication equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge applicable to various roles within the sports industry, preparing them for success in a dynamic and competitive field.
For more information about the curriculum, view the Academic Catalog.
