Speech Communication
Degree: Bachelor of Arts
What is Speech Communication?
Speech communication is the study of how and why people communicate. It includes both spoken language and nonverbal messages. Communication in this sense is both an independent profession and an important part of many other professions. For example, good communication skills are essential in law, business, advertising, public relations, and sales.
What are the features of Miami's program?
Interdisciplinary approach: The program combines a strong liberal arts education with communication and business-related course work to facilitate critical thinking in the business environment.
Focus area: Students who major in speech communication choose a focus from among the following three areas, each beginning with a strong foundation in communication theory and continuing with courses such as persuasion, interpersonal communication, and advocacy:
- Organizational communication includes both oral and written communication, emphasizing the total quality management approach.
- Rhetorical influence provides a background in advocacy, argumentation, persuasion, and rhetoric.
- Interpersonal/relational communication involves face-to-face communication in individual and group settings.
Practical experience: The program is augmented by numerous opportunities for competition and practical experience. These include Miami's Forensics Society, whose members have won numerous awards participating in debates individual events and internships at the Butler County (OH) Juvenile Court, where mediation training is provided for students to help families deal with conflict.
Are there special admission requirements?
Admission is selective, with limited enrollment. Students typically apply for admission after taking the three pre-major courses during their freshman year.
- Cumulative g.p.a. after 30 semester hours
- Total g.p.a. from the three pre-major courses
- Pre-major examination*
*The examination requirement is waived for students enrolled in the University Honors program. Honor students are automatically accepted into the communication degree program of their choice upon completion of the pre-major courses.
What courses would I take?
In addition to the pre-major courses required to enter the program and those required by the Miami Plan, students study communication theory and research and concentrate on courses related to their area of specialization. Many students take off-campus internships in media-related industries.
What can I do with this major?
Graduates with a focus in organizational communication often find careers in human resources, personnel management, training and consulting, sales, and management. The rhetorical influence focus is for those who want to pursue law school, graduate school, politics, lobbying, sales, or any other profession in which advocacy skills are employed. Students in interpersonal/relational communication often pursue careers in helping/service professions.
Who can I contact for more information?
For general information about Miami University, please contact:
Office of Admission
301 S. Campus Ave.
Miami University
Oxford, OH 45056-3434
513-529-2531 (v/t)
www.muohio.edu/requestinfo
For specific information on the Speech Communication major, please contact:
Dr. Larry Nadler
Department of Communication
160A Bachelor Hall
Oxford, OH 45056
513-529-7176
nadlerlb@muohio.edu
www.muohio.edu/communication
