Communication Studies Associate in Arts Degree Program
Program Overview
Communication Studies Associate in Arts Degree Program
Related Degrees & Certificates
- AA-T Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer: Communication Studies 2.0 (60 units)
- CS Certificate of Specialization: Communication Studies (12 units)
Career Opportunities
The ability to organize one’s thoughts and present them with clarity and precision are communication skills transferable to all careers. A background in communication studies is particularly applicable to careers in advertising, arts administration, cinema, copy editing and writing, corporate communications, counseling, education, entertainment, interviewing, journalism, labor relations, law, the legislature, lobbying, management, marketing, media, news analysis, personnel, play writing, politics, proofreading, public affairs, public information, public relations, radio and television, reporting, research, sales, script writing and editing, speech writing, sportscasting, supervision, television, and theatre.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students completing this program will be able to:
- Write a speech outline that demonstrates proper organizational components.
- Apply learned skills and communication theories in teamwork.
- Demonstrate ability to effectively deliver presentations.
- Apply critical thinking skills to analyze conflict and controversial situations.
Recommended High School Preparation
- Coursework in English, Speech, Psychology
University Transfer Program
Use Assist to identify lower division major preparation for the California State University and the University of California systems. For independent or out-of-state colleges and universities use their catalogs to locate this information. Transfer Services can assist you to gather this information.
About the Program
An A.A. degree in Communication Studies prepares students for transfer to a baccalaureate institution for a degree in Communication Studies or a related discipline. The ability to organize one’s thoughts and present them with clarity and precision are communication skills transferable to all careers. A background in communication studies is particularly applicable to careers in advertising, arts administration, cinema, copy editing and writing, corporate communications, counseling, education, entertainment, interviewing, journalism, labor relations, law, the legislature, lobbying, management, marketing, media, news analysis, personnel, play writing, politics, proofreading, public affairs, public information, public relations, radio and television, reporting, research, sales, script writing and editing, speech writing, sportscasting, supervision, television, and theatre.
Program Overview
An A.A. degree in Communication Studies prepares students for transfer to a baccalaureate institution for a degree in Communication Studies or a related discipline.
Program Requirements
Major Requirements
- Required Core Courses: 15 units
- COMM 115: Survey of Human Communication (3 units)
- COMM 110: Public Speaking (3 units)
- COMM 130: Interpersonal Communication (3 units)
- COMM 140: Small Group Communication (3 units)
- COMM 150: Intercultural Communication (3 units)
- Required Selective Courses: Select 6 units from the following courses:
- COMM 170: Oral Interpretation I (3 units)
- COMM 171: Oral Interpretation II (3 units)
- BUS. 401: Business Communications (3 units)
- MGMT 220: Organizational Behavior (3 units)
- PSYC 110: Courtship, Marriage and the Family (3 units)
- SOCI 110: Courtship, Marriage and the Family (3 units)
- Total Required Major Units: 21
General Education Coursework and Electives
- And required General Education coursework and electives as needed to meet the minimum 60 units required for the Associate degree.
- Please refer to the AA/AS Degree Requirements for more information.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Overview:
The Communication Studies Associate in Arts Degree Program prepares students for transfer to a baccalaureate institution for a degree in Communication Studies or a related discipline. The program emphasizes developing strong communication skills and critical thinking abilities, which are valuable assets in various careers.
Objectives:
- Equip students with the ability to effectively organize their thoughts and present them with clarity and precision.
- Develop strong communication skills applicable to diverse professional settings.
- Foster critical thinking skills to analyze conflict and controversial situations.
- Prepare students for transfer to a four-year institution to pursue further studies in Communication Studies or related fields.
Program Description:
The Communication Studies program focuses on building a strong foundation in communication theory and practice. Students gain experience in various communication contexts, including interpersonal, group, public, and intercultural communication. The program also offers courses in specialized areas such as oral interpretation, business communication, and organizational behavior.
Outline
Program Content:
The Communication Studies program consists of two main components:
- Required Core Courses: These courses provide a foundation in communication theory, principles, and practice. They include:
- COMM 115: Survey of Human Communication
- COMM 110: Public Speaking
- COMM 130: Interpersonal Communication
- COMM 140: Small Group Communication
- COMM 150: Intercultural Communication
- Required Selective Courses: Students choose six units from a selection of courses that allow them to explore specific areas of interest within communication studies. These courses may include:
- COMM 170: Oral Interpretation I
- COMM 171: Oral Interpretation II
- BUS 401: Business Communications
- MGMT 220: Organizational Behavior
- PSYC 110: Courtship, Marriage and the Family
- SOCI 110: Courtship, Marriage and the Family
Structure:
The program is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study. Students typically take two to three Communication Studies courses per semester.
Course Schedule:
The College of San Mateo publishes a course schedule each semester. Students can browse the schedule and select Communication Studies courses that fit their interests and availability.
Individual Modules:
The program does not explicitly mention individual modules. However, each course within the program covers specific topics and learning objectives. Students should refer to the course descriptions for detailed information about the content of each module.
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
The program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Exams: Students take exams to demonstrate their understanding of course material.
- Papers and projects: Students complete written assignments and projects to apply their knowledge and skills.
- Presentations: Students deliver presentations to demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively.
- Participation: Students actively participate in class discussions and activities to demonstrate their engagement and understanding.
Assessment Criteria:
The program uses a variety of criteria to assess student performance, including:
- Accuracy: Students' work should be accurate and free of errors.
- Clarity: Students' writing and speaking should be clear, concise, and well-organized.
- Critical thinking: Students should demonstrate their ability to think critically about communication issues.
- Creativity: Students should demonstrate their ability to use creative approaches to communication problems.
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lecture: Instructors deliver lectures to introduce key concepts and theories.
- Discussion: Students engage in discussions to explore ideas and apply their learning.
- Activities: Students participate in activities to practice their communication skills.
- Group work: Students work in groups to complete projects and assignments.
- Technology: Instructors may use technology to enhance learning, such as online resources and presentation tools.
Faculty:
The program employs faculty with expertise in various areas of communication studies. Faculty members hold advanced degrees and have experience teaching at the college level.
Unique Approaches:
The program may offer unique approaches to teaching, such as:
- Experiential learning: Students may have opportunities to apply their learning in real-world settings.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration: Students may have opportunities to collaborate with students from other disciplines.
- Community engagement: Students may have opportunities to engage with the community through service-learning projects.
Careers
Potential Career Paths:
The Communication Studies program prepares students for various careers in communication-related fields, including:
- Advertising
- Arts administration
- Cinema
- Copy editing and writing
- Corporate communications
- Counseling
- Education
- Entertainment
- Interviewing
- Journalism
- Labor relations
- Law
- Legislature
- Lobbying
- Management
- Marketing
- Media
- News analysis
- Personnel
- Play writing
- Politics
- Proofreading
- Public affairs
- Public information
- Public relations
- Radio and television
- Reporting
- Research
- Sales
- Script writing and editing
- Speech writing
- Sportscasting
- Supervision
- Television
- Theatre
Career Opportunities:
Graduates of the Communication Studies program may find employment in various organizations, including:
- Advertising agencies
- Arts organizations
- Businesses
- Educational institutions
- Government agencies
- Media outlets
- Nonprofit organizations
Outcomes:
Graduates of the Communication Studies program are prepared to:
- Communicate effectively in various contexts.
- Think critically about communication issues.
- Apply communication skills to solve problems.
- Work effectively in teams.
- Adapt to changing communication environments.
Other
Additional Information:
- Students can meet with a counselor to discuss their academic goals and develop a comprehensive educational plan.
- The program offers transfer pathways to four-year institutions, including the California State University and the University of California systems.
College of San Mateo
Overview:
College of San Mateo (CSM) is a community college located in San Mateo, California. It is known for its high-quality academic programs and its commitment to student success. CSM is consistently ranked as a top community college.
Services Offered:
CSM offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Students can receive personalized guidance on course selection, degree planning, and career exploration.Financial Aid:
Financial assistance is available to help students pay for tuition, fees, and other expenses.Student Support Services:
CSM provides a variety of support services, such as tutoring, counseling, and disability services.Basic Needs Assistance:
Resources are available to help students with food, housing, and financial coaching.Library:
The CSM library offers a wide collection of books, journals, and other resources.Athletics:
CSM has a strong athletic program with a variety of sports teams.Student Life:
CSM offers a variety of student clubs and organizations, as well as social events and activities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
CSM provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, attend social events, and engage in extracurricular activities. The campus offers a variety of amenities, including a library, athletic center, and student center.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High-Quality Academic Programs:
CSM offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs.Affordable Education:
CSM is a relatively affordable option for higher education.Supportive Campus Environment:
CSM provides a supportive and welcoming campus environment for students.Strong Faculty:
CSM has a dedicated and experienced faculty who are committed to student success.Convenient Location:
CSM is located in a convenient location with easy access to public transportation.Academic Programs:
CSM offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
