Communication plays an increasingly important role in personal, family, and organizational success. The mission of the Communication Department at the University of Dubuque is to develop students' theory-based insights and analytical, speaking, and performance competencies necessary to broaden and enhance their ability to think critically and communicate well.
The department directly serves the commitments of the University's Mission to foster (1) excellence in academic inquiry and professional preparation, (2) relationships which encourage intellectual, spiritual, and moral development, (3) a community where diversity is appreciated and Christian love is practiced, and (4) a zeal for life-long learning and service. In addition to providing students with the opportunity to pursue a bachelor of arts in communication, the Communication Department serves the larger University of Dubuque community by:
- Sponsoring a variety of dramatic productions
- Sponsoring the Thespian Guild
- Serving in an advisory capacity for Under the Belltower.
The major and minor in communication reflect these commitments by offering a multi-faceted program that begins with analysis of basic principles of communication. Advanced coursework permits students to develop competence in concentrated areas of Applied Communication Studies, Performance Studies, or Persuasion Studies. Students who chose to major or minor in communication will develop skills vital to their success as effective communicators in interpersonal, group, public speaking, professional and performance situations. Majors and minors complete their course of study by producing a significant paper or project that demonstrates an in-depth understanding of some aspect of relevant communication literature and practice and how this applies to the student's career choice.
The Student Learning Outcomes for a Communication major are:
- Speak clearly and expressively as well as research and select appropriate supporting material, and apply effective organizing methods.
- Capably articulate the challenge and complexity of cultural adaptation necessary to engage in intercultural Communication.
- Receive, interpret, and appropriately respond in varied communication contexts in dyadic and small group settings.
- Distinguish among statements of fact, inference, and opinion; between emotional and logical arguments; and between objective and biased discourse in different kinds of mediated, organizational, and public messages.
- Plot a desired communication career path and adapt it as needed to the relevant communicative context of possible career development. Articulate how their professional goals and activities relate to their sense of calling to a career, demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the variables influencing the communication