Welcome to the Communication Department
Program Description
Whatever their age, social position, or occupation, people communicate. In fact, we spend more time engaged in speaking and listening than virtually any other activity. Communication is as important as it is pervasive-success or failure often depends on how well we express ourselves and understand others. Recognizing this fact, the Communication Department offers a wide range of courses to help students become more skillful, aware communicators. The departmentís curriculum focuses on communication in a variety of settings-interpersonal, small group, on-the-job, speaker-to-audience, via mass media, and between cultures and nations. In addition, instruction is available in argumentation, debate, communication theory and research methods. Students enroll in Communication courses for a variety of reasons. Some have primarily academic motives and seek either an associate, baccalaureate, or advanced degree in Communication. Other students enroll to become more effective in their careers. Still others seek personal growth, recognizing the importance of skillful self-expression and understanding others in their own lives. Surveys show that most employers rank effective communication at the top of desired skills. As a result, many organizations look favorably upon applicants with proven ability to speak and listen skillfully. While communication is important in virtually any career, certain fields and positions are especially well-suited for Communication graduates-management, public information, broadcasting, personnel training, sales and law, among others. Students who choose the Communication Degree Program will also have the opportunity to gain knowledge about Communication careers by speaking to communication professionals at our annual "Meet the Pros" event. Students can also participate in our annual Lancaster Speech Showcase and participate in community and global projects through their classes or by participating in the Intercultural Communication Club. Qualified students also have the opportunity to be part of Sigma Chi Eta, an honor society for students earning a 3.0 or higher in the major. sudents can o choose to take classes in one of the many Study Abroad Program offered each year. Past study abroad programs include Italy, Australia, India and Rwanda.
Department Offices
Division: Social Sciences
Department Chair: Christina Kistler (BC-218, ext. 2571)
Dean: Alice Scharper (A-118, ext. 2354)
Faculty & Offices
Christina Kistler, Chair (BC-218, ext. 2571)
Catherine Carroll (BC-117, ext. 2920)
Carrie Cropley (BC-102B, ext. 4213)
Darin Garard (BC-102D, ext. 2997)
Sarah Hock (BC-102A, ext. 4395)
