Communication Studies | Academic Catalog

Courses offered by the Department of Communication Studies are designed to foster practical communication skills. The emphasis is the development of the skills and techniques essential for effective public and interpersonal communication - a prerequisite for both occupational and personal success. Students planning to transfer to a four-year institution and major in Communication Studies should consult with a counselor regarding the transfer process and lower division requirements.

COMMST 100 3 Units

Elements of Public Speaking

Lecture: 54 contact hours

Advisory: Eligibility for college level English based on the SBVC Guided-Self Placement process.

This course focuses on training in the application of the concepts, principles, and skills of effective public speaking. Concepts such as structure, adapting messages to culturally diverse audiences, research principles, and critical evaluation of evidence and arguments are explored. Delivery, listening, and feedback skills are also discussed and practiced in a variety of presentations.

Associate Degree Applicable

Transfers to both UC/CSU

C-ID: COMM 110

COMMST 100H 3 Units

Elements of Public Speaking - Honors

Lecture: 54 contact hours

Advisory: Eligibility for college level English based on the SBVC Guided-Self Placement process.

Associate Degree Applicable

Transfers to both UC/CSU

C-ID: COMM 110

COMMST 111 3 Units

Interpersonal Communication

Lecture: 54 contact hours

Advisory: Eligibility for college level English based on the SBVC Guided-Self Placement process.

Interpersonal communication examines the dynamics of the communication process within the context of interpersonal relationships (those with friends, families, romantic partners, professionally and co-workers). Influences of self-concept, perception, listening, verbal and non-verbal communication, and emotional expression are explored. Principles of professional and romantic relationship development, communication climate, self-disclosure, and conflict management are also discussed. Rhetorical, theoretical, and practical skills are also developed and practiced, with faculty supervision/evaluation in a variety of ways.

Associate Degree Applicable

Transfers to both UC/CSU

C-ID: COMM 130

COMMST 111H 3 Units

Interpersonal Communication - Honors

Lecture: 54 contact hours

Advisory: Eligibility for college level English based on the SBVC Guided-Self Placement process.

Associate Degree Applicable

Transfers to both UC/CSU

C-ID: COMM 130

COMMST 125 3 Units

Critical Thinking Through Argumentation and Debate

Lecture: 54 contact hours

Prerequisite: ENGL 101 or ENGL 101H

Advisory: COMMST 100 or COMMST 100H

This course is designed to provide an oral approach to critical thinking skills which includes individual and group debates. It also provides instruction in language, argument structure, types of reasoning, evaluation of evidence, fallacies in reasoning, and case development strategies.

Associate Degree Applicable

Transfers to both UC/CSU

C-ID: COMM 120

COMMST 135 3 Units

Mass Media and Society

Lecture: 54 contact hours

Advisory: READ 015 or eligibility for ENGL 101 or ENGL 101H as determined by the SBVC assessment process.

This course explores the history, effects, and role of the mass media in the U.S. The major forms of mass communication are studied (television, radio, film, newspapers and magazines). There is also a focus on critical analysis of media messages, effects of media on individual and society, and theories of communication. Students move beyond being consumers of media to analysts of media.

Associate Degree Applicable

Transfers to both UC/CSU

C-ID: JOUR 100

COMMST 140 3 Units

Small Group Communication

Lecture: 54 contact hours

Advisory: Eligibility for college level English based on the SBVC Guided-Self Placement process.

This course explores discussion principles, communication skills, conflict management, participation practices, and leadership within small groups in a variety of contexts. Group formation, verbal and non-verbal communication, listening, and decision-making procedures are also examined. Emphasis is on group participation, group discussion, and group projects/presentations.

Associate Degree Applicable

Transfers to both UC/CSU

C-ID: COMM 140

COMMST 174 3 Units

Intercultural Communication

Lecture: 54 contact hours

Advisory: Eligibility for college level English based on the SBVC Guided-Self Placement process.

This course focuses on the communication behaviors and values common to all cultures and ethnic groups and on the differences that insulate and divide people. Students will examine influences on the communication process, including aspects such as stereotyping, perception, prejudice, values and expectations. Students will learn to overcome the communication problems that can result when members of other cultures communicate by evaluating their own intercultural communication patterns and learning skills to increase their effectiveness. Students will also acquire a greater appreciation for others.

Associate Degree Applicable

Transfers to both UC/CSU

C-ID: COMM 150

COMMST 176 3 Units

Gender Differences in Communication

Lecture: 54 contact hours

Advisory: READ 015 or eligibility for ENGL 101 or ENGL 101H as determined through the SBVC assessment process.

This course explores the gender differences evident in communication. Students will examine the theories concerning gender differences, issues of gender in a variety of contexts (families, relationships, the workplace, the media, school), and the differences in the communication patterns resulting from gender.

Associate Degree Applicable

Transfers to both UC/CSU