A-to-Z Index

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.

In addition to the 12 hours of required communication studies courses, students must complete the following 18 hours from among the depth requirements. Students are encouraged to enroll in an internship as well as become involved in a research or community service project during their junior or senior years.

SCOM 320. Introduction to Interpersonal Communication

3

SCOM 340. Principles and Processes of Interviewing

3

SCOM 345. Nonverbal Communication

3

SCOM 440. Family Communication

3

Choose one of the following:

3

SCOM 231. Introduction to Alternative Dispute Resolution

 

SCOM 247. Small Group Communication

 

SCOM 248. Intercultural Communication

 

SCOM 370. Introduction to Health Communication

 

Choose one of the following research requirements:

3

SCOM 381. Communication Criticism

 

SCOM 383. Communication Research Methodologies

 

SCOM 385. Qualitative Communication Research Methods

 

SCOM 386. Communication Survey Research

 

  

18

Nine additional hours of SCOM elective work must be completed to total 39 hours in the major. Three of these additional hours of SCOM elective work can be selected at the 200 level, but the other six hours must be at the 300 or 400 level and may include an internship.

 

 

 

 

Hear from one of our graduates: 

 

Picture of Alum Brennan Biddle 

“My Interpersonal Communication background has definitely been a great asset in my career [as a manager at an IT consulting/staff firm]. It has helped me be a better teammate and a better leader.

It also helps me communicate effectively with our customers and clients. Perhaps most importantly, it has helped me establish a successful and cohesive team environment in a fast-pace office.”

Brennan Biddle, class of 2009