Communication Studies

The dynamic field of Communication Studies provides students at College of the Desert with valuable skills and knowledge that are applicable across various personal, academic, and professional contexts, empowering them to succeed in a rapidly changing world. A degree in Communication Studies offers students a wide range of skills and benefits:

  • Understanding Communication Dynamics: Communication Studies majors gain a deep understanding of communication processes, including verbal and nonverbal communication, interpersonal communication, group communication, and mass communication. This knowledge equips students with the skills to effectively navigate various communication contexts in their personal and professional lives.

  • Enhanced Interpersonal Skills: Students learn how to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, improve active listening skills, and understand the dynamics of human interaction. These interpersonal skills are valuable in building relationships, resolving conflicts, and collaborating with others in any field.

  • Critical Thinking and Analysis: Communication Studies majors develop critical thinking skills by analyzing messages, media, and communication strategies. They learn to evaluate the credibility of information, identify biases, and understand the impact of communication on society and culture.

  • Media Literacy: In an age of digital media and information overload, media literacy is essential. Communication Studies majors learn to critically evaluate media messages, understand media production processes, and analyze the role of media in shaping public opinion and culture.

  • Public Speaking and Presentation Skills: Effective public speaking and presentation skills are crucial in many professions. Communication Studies programs often include courses in public speaking, rhetoric, and persuasion, helping students become confident and persuasive communicators in front of diverse audiences.

  • Professional Communication Skills: Whether in business, government, or nonprofit sectors, effective communication is key to success in the workplace. Communication Studies majors learn how to write clear and concise messages, craft professional emails, and communicate persuasively in various professional settings.

  • Preparation for Diverse Careers: A degree in Communication Studies prepares students for a wide range of careers, including public relations, marketing, advertising, journalism, human resources, event planning, social media management, and more. The versatile skills gained through this major make graduates highly sought after in today's job market.

  • Preparation for Further Education: Communication Studies also serves as a solid foundation for further education in fields such as law, public policy, education, and social sciences. Many graduates go on to pursue advanced degrees in communication, business, or related fields.

There are seven different communication studies courses offered at College of the Desert: COMM 001, COMM 005, COMM 009, COMM 013, COMM 017, COMM 021, and COMM 025.


Advisors:

Carl Christman
cchristman@collegeofthedesert.edu    
760.862.1370

Maria Elena Diaz
madiaz@collegeofthedesert.edu    
760.423.6643

Ed Reed
ereed@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.776.7321

Whitney Shaw
wshaw@collegeofthedesert.edu
760.773.2558

Associate Degrees for Transfer (AD-T)

COMM 001  Introduction to Public Speaking   Units: 3

This course emphasizes theory and the practice of basic techniques for successful public communication. Students learn to develop an effective interpersonal style of public communication. Informative, expository, persuasive, extemporaneous, and impromptu forms of speaking are covered. (C-ID COMM 110)
Lecture Hours: 54         Lab Hours: None          Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A.
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC                 Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C4b                 CSU GE: A1                 IGETC: 1C

COMM 005  Survey of Human Communication   Units: 3

This introductory communication course focuses on the basic foundations of public speaking, interpersonal communication, and small group communication. Students will be introduced to the breadth of the communication discipline. Additionally, students will examine and practice human communication principles and theories to develop critical thinking and communication competencies in a variety of contexts. (C-ID COMM 115)
Lecture Hours: 54         Lab Hours: None          Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A.
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC                 Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C4b                 CSU GE: A1                 IGETC: 1C

COMM 009  Intro to Interpersonal Communication   Units: 3

The course enables students to understand and demonstrate interpersonal communication skills. Students focus on knowledge of communication theories, self-concept, methods of resolving conflict, issues of human perception, nonverbal communication, rhetorical principles, and improvement of listening skills. Significant speaking assignments are an integral part of the course. (C-ID COMM 130)
Lecture Hours: 54         Lab Hours: None          Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A.
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC                 Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C4b                 CSU GE: A1                 IGETC: 1C

COMM 013  Small Group Communication   Units: 3

This course covers principles of communication in a variety of group contexts. Topics include theory, application, and evaluation of group processes, including problem solving, conflict management, and leadership. Significant speaking assignments are an integral part of the course. (C-ID COMM 140)
Lecture Hours: 54         Lab Hours: None          Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A.
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC                 Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C4b                 CSU GE: A1                 IGETC: 1C

COMM 017  Intercultural Communication   Units: 3

This course focuses on the communication behaviors and values common to all cultures and on the differences that insulate and divide people of one culture from others. The study leads to a better understanding of domestic traditions, an increased appreciation of the behaviors of others, and an awareness of more effective methods of communication. Significant writing, research, and speaking assignments are an integral part of the course. (C-ID COMM 150)
Lecture Hours: 54         Lab Hours: None          Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A.
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC                 Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C4b                 CSU GE: A1, D7                 IGETC: 1C

COMM 021  Introduction to Persuasion   Units: 3

This course examines historical and contemporary approaches to persuasive messages throughout time. The primary goal of this course is to provide students with a solid grounding in theories, principles, and strategies of social influence as they relate to everyday life. It will also focus on the oral presentation of persuasive appeals, and learning to construct, deliver, and critique persuasive messages. Significant speaking assignments are an integral part of the course. (C-ID COMM 190)
Lecture Hours: 54         Lab Hours: None          Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A.
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC                 Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C4b                 CSU GE: A1                 IGETC: 1C

COMM 025  Argumentation and Debate   Units: 3

This course focuses on methods of critical inquiry and advocacy. It covers identifying fallacies in reasoning and language, testing evidence and evidence sources, advancing a reasoned position, and defending and refuting arguments. Analysis, presentation, and evaluation of oral and written arguments required. (C-ID COMM 120)
Lecture Hours: 54         Lab Hours: None          Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A.
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC                 Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C4b                 CSU GE: A3                 IGETC: None

COMM 030  Forensics   Units: 2

This course prepares students for intercollegiate speech and debate tournaments. Studies include argumentation, public address, and oral interpretation of literature. Involves research, writing, and one-on-one direction. Requires participation at interscholastic competitions. (C-ID COMM 160B)
Lecture Hours: 18         Lab Hours: 54          Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A & COMM 001.
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU                 Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None                 CSU GE: None                 IGETC: None