In our communication studies program, you'll gain skills crucial to succeed in media and public communication careers. You'll learn to analyze written, oral, visual and electronic messages from historical, critical and social science perspectives. You'll also learn to produce such messages as a means of artistic and functional expression. Our three areas of emphasis in communication studies are: Rhetoric and public communication – Prepares you to become an effective and ethical speaker, listener and writer. You will become a more alert critic of information and argument while gaining responsible advocacy and leadership skills that are essential in business, nonprofit and civic settings. Media studies – Preparing you for roles in media development and production. Courses emphasize the development of media technology, the way different forms of media affect content, strategies for critical citizenship and consumption of media messages. The film/video portion of the curriculum emphasizes creating actual program materials for both cable television and competitive festival exhibition. Organizational/corporate communication – Combines a common core of courses in communication with classes that examine communication systems, training and consulting as well as advertising and corporate advocacy in business, community and governmental settings.