Communication Studies

Mary Beth Asbury, Chair

Aldridge Sanford, Chevrette, Dix, Hoskins, Kim, McCormick, Priddis, Richey, Shi

The study of communication focuses on how people use messages to generate meanings within and across various contexts. The communication discipline studies all forms, modes, media, and consequences of human communication, creating flexibility in career choices and opportunities for personal development. Our students

• develop critical thinking abilities to evaluate communication problems and find solutions;
• engage in experiential learning in the community and build toward career goals with hands-on projects;
• apply knowledge to conduct research with faculty in areas of interest;
• create messages designed for specific audiences, contexts, and goals; and
• understand and navigate differences in our global society.

B.A. and B.S. options in the Communication major are offered with a generalist degree (i.e., no concentrations) and with concentrations in Culture and Social Influence, Health Communication, and Organizational Communication. These concentrations allow students to focus on areas of interest and develop skills that employers desire for specific jobs and interests. Many COMM courses are part of MT Engage and the Experiential Learning Scholars Program, emphasizing hands-on learning.

A minor in Communication is also available. The 15-credit-hour minor in Communication enhances any program of study at MTSU and offers flexible study, in which students select from a wide variety of communication courses to expand their career preparation and communication skills. Students interested in the minor should take 6 lower-division credit hours from COMM courses in the True Blue Core , plus 9 elective hours from the upper-division COMM courses. To declare a minor, students should work with their academic advisors.

MTSU Blue Raider Debate

MTSU Blue Raider Debate offers students the tools to become better thinkers, scholars, and speakers. Through balanced argumentation, students strive to become better citizens. The ultimate goal of the team is not victory in the round but victory in life. Our team looks to the past for guidance to a better future. Traveling and competing at regional and national levels, the award-winning team expands students’ experiences.

No experience is necessary to be a member of MTSU Debate.

Honors College

The department offers Honors classes in COMM 2200. Other courses are available through the honors contract.

Lambda Pi Eta

The department participates in Lamba Pi Eta, the National Communication Association’s official honor society at four-year colleges and universities.

Communication Studies Club

The Communication Studies Club aims to provide students with personal and professional development, networking events, opportunities to attend professional speaker events, and community service projects.

Pi Kappa Delta

Pi Kappa Delta is a National Debate Honors Society. Those who participate in Blue Raider Debate are eligible to apply.

Social Media

Graduate Study

Courses in the Department of Communication Studies may be taken for graduate credit. The Graduate Catalog has details and course listings.