Communication

Division: Language & Communication Studies

The Communication department offers multiple programs that prepare students for entry-level employment and/or potential further study in the fields of Communication or Communication Studies. Students completing these degrees will have a basic foundation in communication skills that include planning, organization, speech writing and presentation, group and interpersonal relations, intercultural awareness, assuming responsibility, preparing reports, argumentation theories, carrying out instructions and delegating responsibilities. These important skills benefit the workplace regardless of the type of career the student chooses to pursue.

Career opportunities upon successful completion of this degree may include business, advertising, communication education, human resources, electronic media and print, journalism, speech writing, advocacy, public relations,  government, media, and social and human services.

Contact Information

Language and Communication Studies Division Chair

Cynthia Johnson | (559) 730-3966 | cynthiaj@cos.edu
Kaweah: 251C | Visalia Campus

Dean of Language and Communication Studies/Educational Support Services

Angela Sanchez | (559) 737-5362 | angelasa@cos.edu 
Educational Support Services: 113 | Visalia Campus 

For a complete list of courses and descriptions visit: COURSES


COMM 001 Fundamentals of Public Speaking 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion
COMM 001 is an introductory course in Public Speaking. This course covers a variety of formal public address styles and formats. This course offers students an opportunity to learn and practice specific skills needed for effective public speaking. (C-ID COMM110)
COMM 002 Gender and Communication 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion
Equivalent Course: COMM 102
This course will examine the impacts of socialization and gender roles in relation to communication. Further, the course will examine the roles of men and women in same-sex or gender and mixed sex or gender contexts. The course will introduce students to current theories of gender communication, and examine the function/s of communication in gender role development. This course will further provide an analysis of key concepts in identifying gender variations by examining culture, perception, social and mass media, historical contexts, language and the impact of power.
COMM 004 Interpersonal Communication 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion
A theoretical exploration of interpersonal communication dynamics influenced by the field of behavioral communications and psychology. Focus will be upon how individuals relate, perceive, communicate, and apply emotions within interpersonal and professional settings.
Advisory on Recommended Preparation: ENGL 001 or equivalent college course with a minimum grade of C. (C-ID COMM130)
COMM 005 Argumentation and Debate 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion
An introductory course in argumentation and debate, this course covers research into, and critical analysis of, major public issues. The course will provide practice in persuasive speaking and formal debate, with emphasis on research, organization, logical proof, and effective presentation. Students will also learn how to understand and avoid fallacies in their persuasive presentations. (C-ID COMM120)
COMM 007 Persuasion 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion
This course examines the constant persuasive messages that permeate modern life. While grounded deeply in persuasive theory, this course also asks students to apply their learning to personal and professional endeavors.
COMM 008 Group Communication 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion
Principles of communication in a variety of group contexts. Theory, application, and evaluation of group communication processes, including problem solving, conflict management, decision making, and leadership. The student will learn group dynamics, structures, the importance of maintaining structured agendas to complete task-oriented group discussions, and how to use substantive conflict to meet both the needs of the group and the individual group members. COMM 008 is an introductory course in Group Communication. (C-ID COMM140)
COMM 009 Intercultural Communication 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion
This course will provide the student with an understanding of the different cultures in our country by providing an insight into the communicative behaviors each culture possesses. A variety of cultures will be studied, with specific emphasis placed on the different skills in verbal and nonverbal communication, communication climates and language interpretation of those cultures. (C-ID COMM150)
COMM 103 Health Communication 3 unit(s)
Hours: 3 Lecture/Discussion
This course will examine the impacts of socialization, culture, and gender, in relation to health and Communication. Students will be introduced to current theories of health communication, and examine the function/s of communication in health care settings. This course will further provide an analysis of key concepts in identifying health care variations by examining perception, social and mass media, historical contexts, language and the impact of power.
COMM 112 Public Speaking for Business 4 unit(s)
Hours: 4 Lecture/Discussion
Equivalent Course: BUS 112
An introductory course in public speaking and presentation software. This course covers a variety of formal public speaking styles and formats. Students will also learn how to create a computerized slide show, as well as speaker outlines/notes and audience handouts to assist in their presentations.
Advisory on Recommended Preparation: BUS 270 or equivalent college course with a minimum grade of C.

Communication

Ahle, Aimee
B.A., University of California, Santa Barbara
M.A., California State University, Fresno

Brooks, Jonathan
B.A., California State University, Fresno
M.A., California State University, Fresno

Johnson, Cynthia
B.A., California State University, Fresno
M.A., California State University, Fresno
M.A., North Central University, Arizona

Kennedy, Shailin
A.A., Reedley College 
B.A., California State University, Fresno
M.A, California State University, Fresno

Mc Gehee, Robin
B.A., William Carey College
M.A., California State University, Fresno