Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Communication Studies - Interpersonal Communication Studies

Interpersonal Communication Studies: Students analyze how messages are used to manage personal relationships in social and professional contexts. By examining research, theory and processes of interpersonal communication, students learn important principles for managing impressions and building rapport, identifying needs and pursuing influence goals, reducing relational uncertainty and adapting to change. Students completing the concentration learn to communicate the value of healthy relationships, are well prepared for graduate school, and develop relational skills for excelling in careers such as peer counseling, education, family and human services, sales and management, aging services, ministry and community leadership. Career Opportunities and Marketable Skills: Students of communication studies develop skill competencies required for effective interaction and leadership in communities, workplaces and groups. Some of these skills include: Speaking Interacting in small groups Using nonverbal communication skills such as use of space, voice, gaze and facial expressions Constructing persuasive messages and campaigns Using computers for word processing, statistical analysis, desktop publishing, graphic design, web page construction and browsing the Internet Analyzing communication at all levels including interpersonal, small group and organizational Persuading successfully Using language effectively Writing effectively Mediating and resolving conflicts Listening and problem solving Such careers are part of the following fields: Consulting Entertainment Hospitality Industry Management Personnel Politics Sales Teaching Study in communication studies also serves as valuable pre-professional preparation for graduate and professional studies in the following fields: Communication Counseling Law Management Ministry Students who study communication studies acquire skills that enable them to interact with others effectively. These skills include: Speaking in front of groups Interacting effectively in small groups Using nonverbal communication skills such as use of space, voice, eyes and facial expressions Constructing persuasive messages and campaigns Using computers for word processing, statistical analysis, desktop publishing, graphic design, web page construction and browsing the Internet Analyzing communication problems at the organizational level Persuading successfully Using language effectively Writing effectively Mediating and resolving conflicts.