Sample Courses in Communication Studies

Communication in the Political World

Catalogue Says

"An introduction to the study of communication, power, and politics in contemporary life. Consideration of theory and research in communication that help us understand how power relationships are constituted, negotiated, and changed."

Students Say

"When I first got into the class, I realized that this was going to be a great course!  There was a level of comfort in talking about politics.  Everyone respected each other’s opinions and we all had different degrees of involvement.  What I got out of the class was a better understanding of politics and how it functions in our society.  I also have a better appreciation for political issues that I used to take for granted.  I left the class with skills that I ended up using in several other classes that I took in and out of the department.”
-Patrick Goddard

Argument & Advocacy

Catalogue Says:

"Study of the art of advocacy. Students develop the logical, organizational and research skills that debate and other forms of oral and written advocacy require. Assignments include participation in debates about current political and legal controversies. Critical thinking skills are emphasized as tools both for advocates and audiences."

Students Say:

"This class challenged my comforts with public speaking and took me to another level of confidence. I learned to think on my toes, and to justify not just what I believe in, but why I believe in it. Our class was required to meet regularly outside of our class hours; Gathering in the back of the dining hall to analyze, critique, and digest every single aspect of the Presidential Debates. I never thought that I'd spend my late night evenings watching political commentaries with my professor, eating hot dogs and taking notes. Sure enough, that was how I spent the majority of my semester."
– Sara Brookshire

Conflict & Negotiation

Catalogue Says

"Study of conflict theory and principles and practices of dispute resolution. Includes everyday conflict, negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution systems. Emphasis on interpersonal skills development."

Students Say

"I really enjoyed this class when I took it my freshmen year. At that point in time I only had a general idea of what I wanted to do with the rest of my life, and it was so exciting to take a class where I was learning skills that could help me no matter what I decided to do. Dr. Glenn was fond of discussing what he termed 'little p politics' the interaction of people, groups or even companies in a political way that doesn't focus on red-state/blue-state politics. Looking at a disagreement or an argument, I can now objectively break down the communication and attempt to help those involved negotiate and compromise. I want to work in international politics, and I am positive that the skills I learned in this class will be utilized very frequently"
– Stephanie Ellis