Communication Fundamentals Certificate

Degree

Certificate. (Federal aid eligible if certificate is combined with Associate of Science degree. Not eligible for federal aid as a stand-alone certificate.)

Overview

This certificate is designed to provide students with basic, yet vital communication skills needed to gain employment or an internship in the field of communications. Students will develop skill in writing, public speaking, and the ability to identify communication methods that will best serve a variety of audiences.

Career Opportunities 

This certificate can provide students with the fundamental skills needed for careers in many different fields, industries and positions. Careers that may be related to this degree include:

• International/Intercultural Communication
• Advertising, Marketing, and Public Relations
• Writing and Publishing
• Media planning
• Account management

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the certificate, successful graduates will be able to:

1. Learn and apply fundamental communication principles using standard media messaging formats.
2. Explain mass communication effects on public discourse, individuals, and institutions.
3. Demonstrate techniques of public speaking, including message development, content, projection, tone, and delivery. 
4. Build, manage, and optimize digital communication strategies and tactics.

Course Requirements

Students are responsible to examine the course description of each course listed below for details of prerequisites, which must be satisfied before registering for the course.

Program Core Courses

DCC 180, Fundamentals of Content Creation, 3 credits
COMM 210, Mass Communication and Society, 3 credits
COMM 310, Writing for Communication Careers, 3 credits
COMM 320, Public Speaking, 3 credits
COMM 330, Digital Channel Strategy, 3 credits

Total Communication Fundamentals Certificate Minimum Credit Hours 15

Recommended Sequence of Courses

Depending upon the number of preparatory courses required, an additional semester may be required to complete the program.

First Semester

DCC 180, Fundamentals of Content Creation, 3 credits
COMM 210, Mass Communication and Society, 3 credits

Total Minimum Semester Hours 6

Second Semester

COMM 310, Writing for Communication Careers, 3 credits
COMM 320, Public Speaking, 3 credits
COMM 330, Digital Channel Strategy, 3 credits

Total Minimum Semester Credit Hours 9

Total Communication Fundamentals Certificate Minimum Credit Hours 15

Graduation Requirements

1. Minimum of 15 total semester credit hours as outlined
2. Grade of C or higher in all core courses
3. Cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher