Certificate of Achievement (Transcripted): Communication Studies

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Certificate in a timely manner. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

By successfully completing the courses for a Certificate of Achievement in Communication Studies, students will gain breath and depth of communication competence to significantly impact future employment and promotion. Students will build practical and theoretical understanding for future Communication Studies work. 

Gain breath and depthof communication competence to impact future employment and promotion.

Build practical and theroretical understanding for future Communication Studies work.

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

Comprehensive Education Plan: You are required to meet with a counselor for a comprehensive educational plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor in your first semester.

First Semester

12 units
COMM C1000
Introduction to Public Speaking
In this course, students learn and apply foundational rhetorical theories and techniques of public speaking in a multicultural democratic society. Students discover, develop, and critically analyze ideas in public discourse through research, reasoning, organization, composition, delivery to a live audience and evaluation of various types of speeches, including informative and persuasive speeches. Formerly: CMST 102 - Public Speaking.
    Plan 1: 1B. Oral Communication and Critical Thinking
    Plan 2: 1C. Oral Communication
    CMST 103
    Introduction to Intercultural Communication
    A general view of the sociological, psychological, and communication patterns of various cultural groups. Special emphasis on the methods, skills, and techniques necessary for effective intercultural, cross cultural, and interracial communication. Stresses the development of analytical thinking, speaking, and writing skills.
      Plan 1: 1B. Oral Communication and Critical Thinking
      CMST 101
      Introduction to Interpersonal Communication
      Introduction to communication theory, rhetoric, listening, perception, language usage, nonverbal communication, and conflict management. Students participate in oral and written exercises and simulations; these activities are designed to enhance communicative awareness and skills in interpersonal contexts. It is designed to assist students in improving their own interpersonal and oral communication skills.
        Plan 1: 1B. Oral Communication and Critical Thinking
        CMST 140
        Argumentation and Debate
        This course provides students with a foundational understanding of argumentation, debate concepts, and theories essential for constructing, analyzing, and evaluating arguments across various contexts and public speaking settings. Students will explore key principles such as Aristotle’s proofs of ethos, pathos, and logos, as well as audience analysis, ethics in argumentation, and critical listening. Additionally, the course emphasizes effective verbal and nonverbal communication strategies for practical argumentation. Students will also learn to assess the strength of evidence and apply logical reasoning to develop and present compelling arguments before live audiences.
          Plan 1: 1B. Oral Communication and Critical Thinking