Rhetoric and Communication - B.A.

The mission of the rhetoric and communication major is to provide curriculum and community that teach students how to be citizens in the 21st century. The major emphasizes the role communication plays in shaping our reality in a variety of social and political settings. Required courses bring theory and practice together as students study the historical and theoretical foundations of the field. Other major requirements equip students with the competencies employers are looking for in a globally competitive world, including effective oral and written communication skills, critical thinking and reading, problem solving, and decision making. Students complete a rigorous academic program consisting of courses in general education, historical and theoretical foundations, research methods, performance, application (especially in one of the most predominant fields today, media), and practical experience. A degree in rhetoric and communication is designed to enhance students’ lives and careers through a clearer understanding of the role communication plays in their professional and personal lives.

Major Requirements:

Forty-two semester hours chosen in conference with a department advisor must be completed. Students will complete general education courses from each area of the department, historical and theoretical foundations, performance-based courses, critical and media classes, and a practical experience requirement. Required courses also fulfill university and department expectations for critical reading, writing, and research.