Communication and Speech Studies

Overview

Programs in communication and speech studies teach the theory and physiology of spoken communication.

Programs in communication and speech studies teach people how humans talk, listen, and persuade. Students study the history and structure of argument. In addition, they write and deliver speeches.

Communication and speech studies programs include topics such as:

Language theories
Historical and contemporary rhetoric
Writing program administration
Communication theories
Argumentation and persuasion
Popular culture

Schools

Many community colleges offer associate degree programs in communication and speech studies. An associate degree program usually takes two years of full-time study. Upon completion, a student may choose to enter the workforce or transfer to a college or university for further study.

Many colleges and universities offer a bachelor's degree in communication and speech studies. A bachelor’s degree usually takes four years of full-time study to complete.

A few universities offer graduate degrees in communication and speech studies. A master’s degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor’s degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master’s degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

It helps to participate in activities such as drama, student government, school newspaper, or debate teams during high school.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Algebra
Creative Writing
Economics
Forensics and Debate
Geography
Graphic and Printing Communication
Humanities
Introduction to Communication
Journalism
Mass Media, Communication
Political Science
Probability and Statistics
Public Speaking
Technical Writing
Western Civilization
World History

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree, good grades, and good test scores.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General
Undergraduate degree or significant course work in communications
Personal statement
Academic writing sample
Letters of recommendation

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

College Algebra
Debate and Argumentation
Humanities
Interpersonal Communication
Mathematics
Natural Sciences
Public Speaking
Social/Behavioral Sciences
Speech Communication
Theories of Communication
Voice, Diction, and Articulation
Written Communication

Depending on your program, you can expect to write speeches, deliver speeches before groups, research social issues, and take part in formal debates.

Graduate Program Courses

Graduate study in communication and speech studies typically includes:

Required courses
Thesis (master's degree)
Preliminary exams (doctoral degree only)
Dissertation and dissertation defense (doctoral degree)

Things to Know

A bachelor's degree in communication and speech studies is a good starting point for further study in law, business, sociology, and political science.