Speech Curriculum

With our speech courses, you can focus on public speaking, developing your voice and body language skills, the effect of news and media on American society, and preparing to communicate effectively with those media.

Check out SpeakEasy, the newsletter of Speaking Across the Curriculum.

For further information about any other aspect of our speech curriculum, contact Libby McGlone, lead instructor.

- Courses -

COMM 105 Speech
(A,W,SP,SU-DL)
3 credits
Emphasis is placed on both verbal and nonverbal communication techniques in public speaking. Individual presentations, including at least three major speeches, are required. The fundamental principles of interpersonal communications and small group discussion are introduced. Audio and/or video taping of selected projects will occur. This course, or its equivalent, is required for all degrees.
Lecture: 3 hours – Lab: 3 hours
Prerequisite: ENGL 101 or 111
Concurrent: ENGL 101 or 111
Lab fee: $3.00

COMM 110 Conference and Group Discussion
(A,W,SP,SU - DL)
3 credits
Through role play, discussion, and participation, students will develop attitudes, skills, and knowledge of methods necessary to effectively participate in discussion at conferences, in committees, and in other small groups. This course is recommended as a substitute for COMM 105 in some technologies. Check with your academic advisor.
Lecture: 3 hours – Lab: 0 hours
Prerequisite: ENGL 101 or 111
Concurrent: ENGL 101 or 111
Lab fee: $3.00

COMM 115 Oral Interpretation
(A,W,SP,SU - DL)
3 credits
Students will read literature orally and listen critically. They will then practice techniques for presenting literature dramatically. The cultural and social functions of oral literature will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on analyzing literary works, recognizing their emotional and dramatic values, and projecting those qualities through oral presentations. Writing assignments include response journals and short critical papers. This course is recommended as a substitute for COMM 105 for all Associate of Arts and Associate of Science students.
Lecture: 3 hours – Lab: 0 hours
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: ENGL 101 or 111
Concurrent: ENGL 101 or 111
Lab fee: $3.00

COMM 210 Video Art Production
(W,SU)
5 credits
This course introduces students to the art of independent film and video through analysis of independent short films and through the production of digital video shorts. Students will research independent film sites and analyze independent films and videos to develop a descriptive definition of video as a collaborative art form. Students will learn digital video photography, conversion of VHS to digital form, script writing, editing, and post production in iMovies (Macintosh non-linear editing software for non professionals). Students will create short videos in selected genre, such as biographical narrative, the parody, or the community-interest documentary.
Lecture 4 hours - Lab 2 hours
Prerequisite: ENGL 102 or equivalent with a grade of “C” or higher required; and ENGL 245 Introduction to Film is recommended.
Lab Fee: $ 25.00

COMM 220 Introduction to Mass Communications
(A-DL)
5 credits
Students will become better consumers of news and other mass media through the study and discussion of the history, roles, and impact of mass media in American society. Principal ethical, policy, and legal questions confronting reporters and media are reviewed. Students are introduced to news writing, advertising, and public relations techniques.
Lecture: 5 hours – Lab: 0 hours
Prerequisite: ENGL 102 or 111
Lab fee: $3.00

COMM 297-298-299 Special Topics in Communications
(On Demand)
1-5 credits
Lecture hours: vary – Lab hours: vary
Prerequisite: vary

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