Course Descriptions

SPC 141 - Interpersonal Speech Communication
The focus of this course is to help students understand, evaluate, and improve their interactions with others in their personal and professional lives. Theory and practical skills include issues in listening, conflict resolution, assertiveness, and non-verbal communication. Emphasis is on the application of these and other communication skills to the daily lives of the class members. 3 Credits.

SPC 142 - Public Speaking
Public Speaking is centered on the principles and practices of civic discourse—reasoned, ethical, and respectful communication about issues of public concern. The course emphasizes the development of ideas, evidence, and reasoning that inform effective oral communication in civic, academic, and professional contexts. Students learn to apply diverse perspectives to public ideas though meaningful civic discourse. Through research, writing, and delivery of original speeches, students apply principles of organization, clarity, rhetorical strategy, and audience awareness to topics of civic relevance. Emphasis is placed on research-based argumentation, ethical use of evidence, and the role of public speaking in shaping civic dialogue. Students learn to analyze and evaluate public messages, construct well-supported arguments, and deliver speeches that demonstrate audience awareness and deliberative intent. When speaking, students develop effective vocal and physical delivery techniques to enhance credibility and engagement while meeting established time and deadline expectations. By the end of the course, students will understand public speaking not only as a performance skill, but as a form of civic participation and public responsibility. 3 Credits.

SPC 143 - Small Group Communication
Group Communication examines small group theory and process from a communication perspective with an emphasis on collaborative decision-making, ethical dialogue, and civic engagement. Students explore leadership, goal setting, group roles, conflict management, consensus-building, and the stages of group development as they relate to effective and inclusive participation. The course highlights the role of communication in shaping group outcomes, fostering cohesion, and navigating difference. Through structured group activities, problem-solving exercises, research presentations, and reflective analysis, students practice facilitation, deliberation, and critical thinking in small group contexts. Students actively participate in groups to apply communication theory to real-world collaborative and civic situations. 3 Credits.

SPC 144 - Communication and Crisis
This course combines theories of communication and concepts of crisis necessary for dealing appropriately with people in crisis. Topics covered include practical skills: listening and responding, communicating assertively, managing conflict, and how these skills can be used to help people who are dealing with loss, grief, depression, and suicidal ideation. The on-line version of this course requires access to a camcorder. 3 Credits.

SPC 208 - Communication, Advocacy, and Democracy
This course integrates classical and contemporary rhetorical theory with practical advocacy skills, emphasizing the civic dimensions of persuasive communication. Students will develop both critical analysis abilities and practical communication competencies while exploring their roles as engaged citizens and ethical advocates in democratic society. 3 Credits.

SPC 241 - Advanced Interpersonal Communication
This course will provide students the chance to analyze their interpersonal communication skills and further expand competency through application in personal and professional life situations. Students will examine the impact of technology, gender, nonverbals, and cultural diversity on communication in families, with friends and romantic partners, and in their professional lives. Interpersonal skills will be integrated into the interviewing process and conflict resolution. A portfolio will be developed that reflects the self-examination and adjustment of interpersonal skills in personal and professional relationships. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite SPC 141